How parents can make summer vacation easier

As children in California get older, they are less and less likely to want to spend their summer vacations with their divorced parents. While this is perfectly normal, it is important that non-custodial parents learn to create living conditions that acknowledge this reality. It may be a good idea for parents to integrate their children into the household by asking them to do chores or otherwise contribute to running it.

Parents are urged to let their children know that they are allowed to make contact with their friends and other family members during the summer. In most cases, teen or tween children may resent feeling isolated from those who they may spend the rest of the year with. A parent could address this by arranging to visit with grandparents or other extended family members during a summer stay.

It is important that children have the time and space needed to do school work if it is due when the new school year starts. Furthermore, parents are encouraged to spend time with their children on their schedule regardless of how late they may like to stay up. Both planned and unplanned activities can be great ways to bond with a child while he or she is on the extended summer break.

After a divorce or legal separation, both parents of a child may get visitation or custody rights. Those who are seeking extended visitation or other parental rights may wish to talk to an attorney. Legal counsel may be able to craft an agreement that reflects the best interests of the child. This may mean that a child spends several weeks at a time with the noncustodial parent while spending the rest of the year with the custodial parent.