Have you planned your summer custody schedule?

Summer Vacation

The term evokes many thoughts – long days, warm nights, sunshine and flowers blooming, lounging by the pool or a trip down the shore. For kids it means no school, sleeping in, hanging out with friends or going to summer camp.

For separated families, the term means something very different. It means a change in the custody schedule, needing child care, arranging transportation to camp and deciding who is taking summer vacation first. There are also financial considerations. Does child support change? Who is paying for the extracurricular activities, camp or even the pool membership?

Custody in Pennsylvania involves both legal custody (decisions about the child's education, medical care, religion, and overall upbringing), and physical custody (where the child is physically present). In determining both legal and physical custody, a court must determine what is in the best interest of the child. An experienced lawyer can provide the guidance necessary to address these issues in a custody dispute.

For separated families with school-age children, summer vacation usually means a change in the custody schedule. During the school year, one parent may have primary physical custody to establish consistency for the child during the week. The non-custodial parent may have weekends or varying nights throughout the week. Shared custody schedules are designed with the school schedule in mind. Summer vacation is the time a non-custodial parent may exercise an opportunity to spend more time with the children. The custody schedule may reverse completely – with primary custody changing from one parent to the other – or parties may decide to share physical custody equally.

Whatever schedule works for your family, it is important to remember to plan ahead. Should you want to change a summer schedule and will need court intervention to make it happen, a parent must take action months in advance. Furthermore, most custody agreements or orders require a parent to choose when they are taking their “official” summer vacation at least thirty days in advance, and the parent who picks first gets preference. Most importantly, if there is any dispute about where a child may attend school the following school year, the months prior and during your summer vacation are the times to decide. A custody trial regarding school must be completed by the middle of August to allow for a child’s smooth transition into the next school year. Identifying any potential issues early to allow for changes that need to be made.

Each custody matter is entirely unique and requires the attention of a sensitive and qualified attorney. Our significant experience in this area can allow for a practical and customized custody agreement to fit your needs. We can help address the issues of work, travel, childcare, extracurricular activities, holidays, vacations and special events to devise a plan that works best for both the children and parents.

So remember, in order to make your summer vacation breeze by like a trip down a lazy river, open the lines of communication early. Begin to discuss any possible changes well in advance. Contact your attorney months before should you feel you need court intervention in order to make a decision regarding vacation or the following school year. Plan ahead and relax for the summer!

Contact Kara Haggerty at 717-591-1755 or

send an email: khaggerty@pjrlaw.com with questions or to discuss your situation further.

5 Fun Activities to Enjoy with Your Kids This Summer

Divorced parents know that spending quality time with their children during the summer months can be challenging. Making the most of your time together can be both enjoyable and strengthen the bond between you and your kids. No need to worry – we've got you covered with these 5 fun activities that will leave lasting memories with your children and make your summer count!

1. Explore the Great Outdoors

Summer is the perfect time to discover the wonder of nature together. Visit a nearby national park or nature reserve to learn about local flora and fauna. Activities like hiking, biking, and even birdwatching can be entertaining and educational for both you and your kids!

2. Dive into the World of Cooking

Why not spark your kids' culinary curiosity by teaching them how to cook some of their favorite meals or introducing them to new and exotic dishes? Working together in the kitchen can help you bond while you teach valuable life skills. To make it even more exciting, consider attending a local cooking class or hosting a themed family cook-off.

3. Attend Local Events and Festivals

Summer is the season of fun-filled community events like concerts, food festivals, and art fairs. These events provide opportunities for you and your kids to mingle with other families, learn about different cultures, and create unforgettable memories. Check your local calendar or online community pages for this summer's can't-miss events.

4. Make a Splash

Cool off from the summer heat and make a splash with water activities that kids of all ages will love. Some options include visiting water parks, taking a trip to the beach, or just turning on the sprinklers in the backyard. You can also get creative with water balloons and water guns for energetic and refreshing fun!

5. Volunteer for a Good Cause

Encourage empathy and community engagement in your kids by volunteering together for a good cause. Choose a cause that aligns with their interests, such as helping at an animal shelter, cleaning up local parks, or assisting in a food drive. Not only will you be spending quality time together, but you'll also be making a positive impact in your community.

Make This Summer Unforgettable!

Ensure that your turn with your kids this summer is full of fun, bonding, and memory-making. These five activities provide a great starting point but remember that the most important thing is to truly engage with your children and enjoy this precious time together.

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