Planning Summer Travel with Children

When it comes to planning vacations, communication is key. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Notice Requirements

Most parenting plans require advance notice (often 30 days) before out-of-state or international travel. Include travel dates, destination, and contact information.

2. Travel Documents

Make sure passports, travel consents, and medical information are up-to-date and accessible to both parents. If your child doesn’t yet have a passport, both parents must typically sign the application.

3. Respect the Schedule

Avoid booking non-refundable travel before confirming that it aligns with the agreed-upon timesharing dates.

4. Be Flexible When Possible

Unexpected events like flight delays or illness happen. Aim to be cooperative while still respecting your rights and boundaries.


Transitioning Back to School: Start Preparing in July

Once summer winds down, it’s time to shift gears. Help your child (and your co-parenting routine) ease into the school year with these tips:

1. Coordinate the Fall Schedule

Review your parenting plan for school-year timesharing. Now is the time to clarify transportation, extracurriculars, and after-school care.

2. Share Back-to-School Costs

Florida courts encourage parents to split educational expenses (like uniforms, supplies, and fees), unless otherwise specified. Discuss this early to avoid last-minute conflict.

3. Update Contact Information

Make sure schools and teachers have the correct emergency contacts for both parents, especially if the child alternates between homes.

4. Be Consistent

Consistency in bedtime, homework routines, and communication reduces stress for your child as they adjust from the relaxed summer rhythm.


When Should You Modify the Summer Schedule?

If your current parenting plan no longer works — for example, if your child’s needs have changed or your co-parent is being inflexible — you can request a modification. Florida courts will only approve changes if there’s a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances.


Need Help with Summer Timesharing?

At Hernandez Family Law, we guide Florida parents through every season of co-parenting. If you’re struggling with vacation conflicts, travel permissions, or back-to-school scheduling, we’re here to help.

Schedule a consultation today to protect your rights and reduce conflict — for a summer that’s peaceful and productive for everyone.


Tags:
Florida Timesharing, Summer Parenting Plan, Florida Family Law, Co-Parenting Tips, Back to School, Divorce Lawyer Florida, Hernandez Family Law