The summer holidays can be a wonderful time for children, filled with fun and relaxation. However, for co-parents, this period can present unique challenges. With a bit of planning, communication, and cooperation, you can ensure that your children have a memorable and enjoyable summer. Here are 30 essential tips to help you navigate co-parenting during the summer holidays.

Plan and Communicate

1. Plan Ahead: Start discussions early and agree on a summer schedule.

2. Open Communication: Use shared calendars, emails, or co-parenting apps to keep everyone informed.

3. Create a Written Agreement: Document your plans to avoid misunderstandings.

Flexibility and Respect

4. Be Flexible: Be open to adjustments in the schedule.

5. Respect Each Other’s Time: Stick to agreed schedules and be punctual.

6. Share Expenses Equitably: Agree on how to handle summer-related costs to avoid conflicts.

Children’s Needs and Preferences

7. Consider the Children’s Preferences: Involve them in planning their activities.

8. Maintain Routines: Keep consistent routines for stability.

9. Coordinate Bedtimes: Ensure similar bedtimes in both households.

10. Support Individual Time: Allow children time alone or with friends.

Shared Responsibilities

11. Divide Responsibilities: Share the load of summer activities and childcare.

12. Coordinate Educational Activities: Balance fun with learning.

13. Plan Special One-on-One Time: Schedule individual time with each child.

Health and Safety

14. Prioritise Health and Safety: Agree on safety protocols for new activities.

15. Keep a Backup Plan: Have contingencies for unexpected changes

16. Support Each Other’s Rules: Reinforce consistent rules across both households.

Family Dynamics

17. Encourage Sibling Time: Ensure siblings have time to bond.

18. Keep Extended Family Informed: Let extended family know the summer schedule.

19. Celebrate Milestones Together: If possible, celebrate important events together.

Positive Atmosphere

20. Focus on the Positive: Emphasise the fun aspects of summer.

21. Avoid Negative Talk: Refrain from speaking negatively about the other parent.

22. Encourage Communication with Both Parents: Ensure children feel comfortable reaching out to the other parent.

Mediation and Support

23. Seek Help if Needed: Consider mediation or coaching for conflicts.

24. Set Clear Boundaries: Establish boundaries regarding communication during the other parent's time.

25. Be a Role Model: Demonstrate respectful and cooperative behaviour.

Creating Memories

26. Document Memories: Encourage children to keep a summer journal or scrapbook.

27. Focus on Fun: Prioritise enjoyable activities for positive memories.

Flexibility and Adaptation

28. Share Information About New Activities: Keep each other informed about the children’s activities.

29. Allow for Individual Time: Recognise and allow children to have their own activities.

30. Maintain Consistent Discipline: Agree on consistent disciplinary methods.

By incorporating these tips into your co-parenting strategy, you can create a positive and harmonious summer experience for your children. With good planning, communication, and cooperation, the summer holidays can be a time of joy and growth for the whole family.

If you are struggling to co-parent, consider working with a divorce coach like myself. Book a free consultation to see what package of support may be best to suit your needs.