Teens, Separation and Holidays

So much to keep up with! Expenses, schedules, quality time, logistics, registrations, attitudes... Summer holidays require solid, open communication to keep it all together and on track for a positive experience.

Teenagers

With these "kids" fast becoming "adults" while experimenting and pushing the limits of personal freedom, you need to be on top of items like curfews, wifi limits, summer jobs, overnights with friends, expectations, and so on. It's a good strategy to write down these discussions, as well as what you and your teen agree to. Share it with them and get unofficial signed consent. Make them a legitimate part of the negotiation instead of simply telling them the rules. Then share it with the other parent to maximize transparency and buy-in of all family members. 

When your holiday is underway, build memories, not division. Try cooking together, playing board games, doing an art project together, or just talking about life and dreams, face to face, but don't push. That first vacation together without both original parents may present unexpected challenges. Be patient.

Teens are ready to be adults, so treat them like it. You'll all have a summer holiday to remember, without adding more stress to the larger issues of divorce.