Child custody may seem simple on the surface, but there are layers to it and many different aspects to consider. Vacationing time is an important part of a child custody arrangement, but it may not immediately occur to some parents.
Creating a custody arrangement that accounts for vacation time can help you create a more cohesive family feeling. Beyond simply considering vacation time in a child custody plan, there are layers to vacation planning to consider in creating an arrangement, too. Time off, travel and holidays are all parts of vacation to think about when creating this plan.
Time off
Gaps and time off in your children’s schedule need to be accounted for in a child custody arrangement. Chances are your kids will have a summer break as well as a winter break. Most schools have an odd day off here and there for teacher conferences or miscellaneous holidays. You will have to take these into consideration when figuring out child custody. Who will take care of your kids during these days off?
Traveling
Travelling and taking vacations are another consideration you need to make when creating a custody arrangement. If you or your child’s other parent want to take your children on a vacation out of state or even out of the country, you will need to think about this while creating a plan. You and your child’s other parent need to agree on the terms of vacationing as well as the time allowed to each parent for these vacations.
Holidays
Not only do you need to consider who gets to take care of your children during miscellaneous breaks, but you will need to come to an agreement about who gets to have your children with them for important holidays. Thanksgiving, birthdays and other important holidays should be considered in a custody arrangement. Chances are, both parents will want to spend time with their kids for major holidays, but you will need to discuss this.
These three elements are important considerations to make when coming to a custody agreement. Vacationing with visitation is another component to consider. If you are unsure about what decision to make or what you are allowed to do in terms of vacation time, creating a policy of open communication with your child’s other parent may help. You can also consult a family law attorney for advice and help.