If you are a divorced parent or soon will be, you may already be planning for the upcoming summer break. For many families, the end of the school year marks the beginning of a time when many co-parents must establish a new schedule for their children. The best way to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and successful summer is to work together as co-parents and ensure that you and the other parent are on the same page regarding parenting time and responsibilities.
Set up a Parenting Plan or Temporary Allocation Order
The parenting plan or parenting agreement is crucial for divorced parents in Illinois. This is the document that contains everything from when each parent will have the children to how major decisions regarding childcare and education will be made. It is important that both parents agree to the terms of the plan, as it will serve as a road map for all parenting situations during summer break and beyond. If you are in the middle of getting divorced and do not yet have your final parenting plan, you can ask the court to enter a temporary order.
Divorcing parents who are on good terms may be able to negotiate temporary custody plans without the need for a formal court order, but it is still recommended that you put this agreement in writing.
Do Not Travel Out of State Without Telling the Other Parent
It is important to inform the other parent if you are planning to travel out of state with your children during the summer break. This should be part of your parenting plan, but it is a good idea to communicate with the other parent and make sure they know your plans ahead of time. Tell the other parent the dates you will be gone, where you are staying, and an emergency contact phone number. Get this conversation in writing, such as in an email or text message so you have a receipt of the conversation. If you take the children out of state and the other parent does not know about it, they may report it to the police and you could even end up being accused of parental kidnapping.
Keep the Children's Schedules as Consistent as Possible
Divorce can be a difficult and disruptive transition for children, so it is important to keep their routines as consistent as possible. This will help them cope with the changes in their lives and make sure that they have some stability during the summer months. If you and your ex-spouse alternate parenting days or weeks, try not to deviate too much from the schedule. You should also make a point to keep any daily routines as consistent as possible, such as bedtimes and meal times. This will help your children feel safe and secure during an otherwise uncertain time in their lives.
Contact our Kane County Divorce Lawyers
At MKFM Law, we understand how important it is for parents to establish a parenting plan that works for their family. Our experienced Kane County child custody attorneys can help you negotiate a fair and comprehensive agreement that meets the needs of everyone involved. Call 630-665-7300 today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist with your divorce case.
Source:
https://www.ilga.gov/
