How to Co-Parent Smoothly During Summer Break

Ah, summer break—the season of later bedtimes, sunscreen battles, and the eternal question, “What are we doing today?” For blended families, summer can feel like a juggling act with extra moving pieces: vacation schedules, custody arrangements, and different household rules. If the thought of summer co-parenting makes you want to hide behind a giant pool float, take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you CAN do this—without losing your sanity.

I’ve worked with so many stepmoms who dread summer because it feels unpredictable. The schedule changes, kids transition between homes more frequently, and tensions can run high. But guess what? With a little planning, flexibility, and a mindset shift, summer can actually be a time of connection rather than conflict.

Start with Clear Expectations (and a Big Dose of Grace)

Summer schedules often look nothing like the school year, which can cause stress if you and your co-parent aren’t on the same page. Instead of assuming you both have the same vision of how things “should” go, take time to discuss:
✔️ Vacation plans and who gets what dates
✔️ Daily/weekly routines (especially for working parents)
✔️ Expectations around bedtime, screen time, and activities
✔️ How you’ll handle any last-minute changes

The key here? Approach these conversations with clarity but also flexibility. No one likes feeling blindsided, but life happens. Be willing to adjust where needed while still maintaining necessary boundaries.

Communicate in a Way That Works (Even When It’s Hard)

Let’s be honest: co-parenting conversations aren’t always fun. Maybe your co-parent is difficult, unreliable, or has a habit of suddenly forgetting what you agreed on. Instead of getting caught in the frustration spiral, focus on solutions over reactions.

Try using a shared calendar app (like Google Calendar or OurFamilyWizard) to keep everyone on the same page. Stick to clear, direct communication—think bullet points instead of essays. And if emotions start running high? Pause and come back later. You don’t have to engage in every battle.

Make the Kids the Priority (Not the Drama)

One of the biggest summer stressors in blended families is when kids feel torn between two homes. They didn’t choose this situation, but they are deeply impacted by it. Make it easier on them by:

• Encouraging excitement for both parents’ plans (no guilt trips!)

• Giving them space to express feelings about transitions

• Keeping routines familiar to provide stability

• Letting them enjoy their summer—without putting them in the middle of adult conflicts

At the end of the day, summer break isn’t about “winning” co-parenting—it’s about giving your kids a safe, happy summer they’ll remember.

Ready for a Smoother Summer?

If summer co-parenting feels like a struggle, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Inside The Studio, my 6-month membership for stepmoms, we dive into real-life co-parenting challenges and strategies that actually work. Join us today for the support and guidance you need!

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