Shared visitation is usually challenging for divorced parents, no matter how well they may get along. This is especially true during the summer months, when the parent who usually has less visitation time may have the children for a longer period. Ohio parents may benefit from learning how to manage visitation during summer vacation.
Typically, divorced parents switch off time with their children every other week, or the noncustodial parent may have the children on weekends. This can be difficult for children and parents to get accustomed to, as the Huffington Post explains. Younger children may react to changing schedules and uncertain situations by regressing socially and needing more attention from each parent. Older children can respond by acting out, withdrawing and performing poorly in school. Often, especially with help from counselors and love and reassurance from parents, children eventually adjust to their visitation schedules.
However, the summer months often mean a disruption in the usual schedule. For example, the parent who lives out of town and only sees the children one weekend a month may have the children visit for several weeks during the summer. While this can be a fun time for the children, they may also have difficulty adjusting. Parents may make summer visitation easier with the following tips:
- Consider children’s needs and wants as they get older, and make changes to the visitation plan as needed.
- Prepare the children beforehand about the upcoming change.
- Stick to a consistent schedule and rules.
- Be flexible and willing to compromise.
- Listen to the concerns and worries of the children and the other parent.
It is also not unusual for parents to become lonely and depressed while the children are visiting the other parent. Parents who are used to having their kids with them longer during the rest of the year may consider taking this time to recharge emotionally and physically. Co-parenting can be challenging, but parents can make it work when they are open-minded and respectful of each other.
