It’s hard to believe that half of the year is almost over and we are on the verge of summer. To kick off your summer break, today, also known as National Road Trip Day, is the perfect time for you and your children to hit the open road. The long Memorial Day weekend offers a chance to spend some quality time away from home, school, work, and the potentially tricky family dynamics that come from your children living between two parents after a divorce. So join the millions of people who will take to the road to visit friends and family, or set out on a driving adventure filled with snacks, singalongs, and lasting memories.

When sharing custody of your children, open communication with your former spouse about travel plans ensures everyone is on the same page; this can drastically decrease tense conversations that can change your easygoing, summery attitude. So spend time going over your plans so both parents agree on dates, destinations, and duration well in advance to avoid any later dust-ups. If speaking with your ex in person is difficult, you can use co-parenting apps such as OurFamilyWizard, Cozi, or Custody X Change to share calendars, update schedules, and send messages, keeping all travel plans organized in one place without having to deal with the in-person arguments. Regular check-ins through weekly or biweekly phone calls or video chats, when you are traveling, can also be beneficial so your children can share their experiences with your ex, or you can discuss any change of plans or concerns. Detailed email updates laying out proposed plans, including dates, destinations, and any necessary travel documents or arrangements, are also helpful because they provide a written record that can be referred to in the future if needed.