Florida parents realize that the transition back into the school-year schedule is upon us. The first day for Lake County schools is August 10. For parents who have separated, divorced or just broken up with their kid’s other parent, this can be a time of trepidation and anxiety.
Below are some tips for a smoother transition for all when adjusting to the custody plan in place for most of the year.
Keep it civil with an app
Depending on the parties and the circumstances, it’s not always possible to communicate with a former spouse or soon-to-be ex. Rarely is anything solved with acrimonious texts to one another. Rather, use a parenting app that preserves a record of who said what and when. Different companies each have their version, so pick one and use it exclusively to communicate regarding the kids.
Be willing to compromise
Maybe Halloween has always been your big holiday, while your ex immerses themselves in the Thanksgiving holidays. By agreeing to swap weekends, you can provide the kids with the best of both worlds and/or cultures.
Remember, too, that acquiescing to your co-parent’s reasonable requests and accommodations now can later be cited when it’s you who wants to swap custody weekends.
Get an interim custody order
You may be fine handling things casually because it’s never been a problem. But will it be a problem if your ex starts bringing their new love interest around your children? A well-drafted interim custody agreement will likely be signed by the judge because the parties consent.
Without a formal agreement in place, there are no parameters to guide your and the other parent’s activities with the kids.