01 Jun Co-Parenting in the Summer: A BC Guide to Vacation, Schedules, and Disputes

Posted at 18:08h in News & Insights by

Summer is often a highlight of the year for children—but for separated or divorced parents in British Columbia, it can also be one of the most challenging times to manage parenting arrangements. Without the structure of the school year, regular parenting schedules may no longer work. Vacation plans, camps, and travel can quickly lead to confusion or conflict if expectations are not clear. If you are co-parenting in BC, here’s what you need to know to create a workable summer parenting plan—and avoid unnecessary disputes.

Why Summer Parenting Plans Matter

Many parenting arrangements are built around the school calendar. When that structure disappears, gaps in your agreement can become obvious.

Common summer issues include:

  • Disagreements about vacation time
  • Conflicts over summer camps or childcare
  • Unequal or unclear parenting time
  • Last-minute scheduling changes

These issues are extremely common and often arise when parents haven’t planned ahead for summer-specific scheduling.

A clear summer parenting plan helps reduce conflict and provides consistency for your children.

The Legal Framework in BC

Under BC’s Family Law Act, all parenting decisions must be based on the best interests of the child(ren).

This includes decisions about:

  • Parenting time
  • Travel and vacations
  • Activities and childcare
  • Communication with the other parent

Importantly, your existing court order or agreement continues to apply during the summer unless it specifically sets out a different schedule.

Key Components of a Strong Summer Parenting Plan

A well-drafted summer plan should address more than just “who has the children when.” It should anticipate common issues before they become problems.

Parenting Time Schedule

Summer schedules often differ significantly from school-year routines.

Options can include:

  • Alternating weeks
  • Dividing summer into equal blocks
  • Extended vacation time for each parent

The best schedule depends on your child’s age, needs, and your co-parenting dynamic.

Vacation Planning and Notice

Summer is peak vacation season—and also a frequent source of disputes.

A good plan should address:

  • How much vacation time each parent has
  • Deadlines for providing travel notice
  • Priority in alternating years (if applicable)

Without clear rules, disagreements about timing and duration can escalate quickly.

Travel Rules

Travel, particularly outside Canada, requires careful planning.

In many cases:

  • A parent may need the other parent’s consent to travel with the child
  • A written travel consent letter may be required at the border

If parents cannot agree, a court application may be necessary.

Summer Camps and Childcare

With children out of school, childcare becomes a major issue.

Your plan should clarify:

  • Who chooses camps or activities
  • How costs are shared
  • Whether both parents must consent

Disputes often arise when one parent enrolls a child in activities without consulting the other.

Communication During Extended Parenting Time

If a child spends extended time with one parent, maintaining contact with the other parent is important.

Consider including:

  • Scheduled phone or video calls
  • Flexibility to maintain relationships with both parents

This helps support the child’s emotional well-being during longer separations.

 

What Happens If Parents Can’t Agree?

If you and your co-parent cannot agree on a summer schedule, you have several options:

  • Negotiation or mediation
  • Updating your parenting agreement
  • Applying to court for directions or changes

Courts in BC will always focus on the child’s best interests and whether the proposed arrangement supports stability and ongoing relationships.

 

Practical Tips to Avoid Summer Disputes

To make summer smoother for everyone, consider the following:

  • Plan early – Start discussions well before summer begins
  • Put everything in writing – Avoid misunderstandings
  • Be flexible – Summer often requires compromise
  • Focus on the children – Not on “fairness” between parents

Remember: proactive planning is one of the most effective ways to prevent conflict.

If you would like to discuss any of these issues or need help reviewing or updating your parenting plan, please reach out to one of our lawyers who can provide clarity and peace of mind.