Co-Parenting During Summer in 2020

Summer is here, the sun is out, and now is the time when families usually plan vacations and children can play outdoors with their friends. And for separated couples who have children in common, this is usually a time to plan ahead and create a parenting schedule that works for everyone.

Things are a bit different for the summer of 2020 because of the coronavirus outbreak, ongoing lockdowns, self-quarantines, and social distancing measures. As a result, many families are struggling to co-parent while keeping their family’s health a top priority.

While this summer may pose unique challenges, it remains possible for you and your children to make the most of your time together.

Be Flexible and Cooperative

Currently, couples in New York are experiencing challenges to co-parenting during the pandemic. Neverthele4ss, child custody orders, and parenting access schedules have been and continue to be enforced throughout the state.

While most parents want to obey custody orders, they also worry about their children’s safety and their own health, if not strictly following social distancing recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Both parents may want to have equal or more time with their child during the summer, but it’s important to focus on being flexible and cooperative. Parents should work together to make decisions that are in the best interest of their child’s safety and their own health as well. Temporary arrangements may need to be established to accommodate this unusual period.

Communicate With Children

The importance of communication extends to your children. They probably just want to go play with their friends outside or visit their other parents and do not understand why this may not be an option. It’s important to let them know why this summer is different than most and provide alternatives to the things that they want to do but can’t.

If your child is staying with you, also make sure that your child maintains contact and communication with the other parent. You can have them write letters, draw pictures, talk on the phone, and video chat.

We understand that these situations can be incredibly frustrating and sensitive, but now is not the time to fight or argue, nor will it do any good. If you do need assistance with a parenting plan, it’s in your best interest to contact a child custody attorney who can work on your behalf for a practical modification.

Get Creative

Your children look forward to the summer break all year. Although their schedule might be limited this summer, there are still many fun activities available to participate in from the comfort of your home.

Get creative with recreational alternatives for your children. If they like spending time outdoors, you can take walks, let them ride their bikes, and even set up an overnight campground in your backyard.

Fortunately, technology has been a vital component to maintaining relationships during lockdowns and social distancing. If your child is missing their friends, you can have them video chat and play games together using a computer, iPad, or another electronic device.

There are new developments in coronavirus news every day, so make sure that you stay updated as businesses reopen and other activities become available.

Safety and Health Comes First

In these unprecedented times, there’s really no road map to situations involving legal custody arrangements and parenting plans. And especially in these uncertain times, you simply want what is best for your child’s well-being and safety.

If you need help pursuing a child custody or parenting plan modification, the caring legal team at Wisselman, Harounian & Associates is here to negotiate on your behalf. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our firm for an effective and strategic legal solution.

Contact our firm at (516) 773-8300 to get started on your case. During the pandemic, we are offering remote legal services and can help you learn about your options from home.