Planning summer vacations and holidays can become complex when parents are separated or divorced, especially in Edmonton and across Alberta.
Clear communication and advance planning help minimize conflicts while ensuring children get to enjoy quality time with both parents during school breaks.
This quick guide covers the key considerations for separated parents organizing summer and holiday schedules in Alberta.
Understanding Your Parenting Agreement
Your existing parenting order or agreement should be the first reference point for holiday planning.
- Check specific provisions about summer vacations and holidays
- Review notification requirements for travel plans
- Note any restrictions on out-of-province or international travel
- Verify if there’s a set schedule for alternating holidays
Planning Summer Vacations
The Alberta courts recommend starting vacation planning at least 60 days in advance.
- Provide written notice of travel dates to the other parent
- Share detailed itineraries including accommodation details
- Exchange emergency contact information
- Arrange for children to communicate with the other parent during the trip
Travel Documentation Requirements
For international travel from Alberta, both parents typically need to provide consent.
- Valid passports for children
- Notarized travel consent letters from both parents
- Copies of custody/parenting orders
- Birth certificates
Managing Holiday Schedules
Common approaches for holiday scheduling in Alberta include:
- Alternating major holidays each year
- Splitting holiday time equally
- Creating fixed schedules for specific celebrations
- Maintaining regular schedules with special holiday arrangements
Resolving Schedule Conflicts
When disagreements arise, consider these steps:
- Review your parenting agreement terms
- Discuss alternatives directly with the other parent
- Consult a family mediator in Edmonton
- Seek legal advice if needed
Legal Resources and Support
Edmonton offers several resources for separated parents:
- Resolution Services: 780-415-0404
- Family Court Counsellors: 780-427-8343
- Legal Aid Alberta: 1-866-845-3425
- Edmonton Family Court: 780-422-2200
Moving Forward Successfully
The key to successful holiday planning lies in maintaining open communication and focusing on the children’s best interests.
Document all agreements in writing and keep records of travel plans and schedule changes.
Consider working with a family lawyer to update your parenting agreement if current arrangements aren’t meeting your family’s needs.
Maintaining Flexibility During School Breaks
School breaks require special consideration for separated parents in Alberta:
- Create a shared calendar for school events and activities
- Plan for childcare arrangements during weekdays
- Coordinate summer camps and recreational programs
- Allow flexibility for special opportunities or events
Long Weekend Planning
Alberta’s statutory holidays often create long weekends that need specific arrangements:
- Determine if these follow regular weekend schedules
- Consider alternating long weekends between parents
- Plan for additional travel time during busy holidays
- Account for family traditions and cultural celebrations
Supporting Children’s Needs
Keep children’s emotional well-being at the forefront of holiday planning:
- Maintain familiar routines when possible
- Include children in age-appropriate activity planning
- Ensure they have ways to connect with both parents
- Respect their relationships with extended family
Building Positive Co-Parenting Traditions
A successful holiday arrangement requires ongoing commitment from both parents. Focus on creating positive experiences that benefit everyone involved. Remember that flexibility, clear communication, and putting children first will help establish sustainable holiday traditions that work for your family’s unique situation.
Regular review and adjustment of arrangements ensure they continue to serve your children’s evolving needs as they grow. With proper planning and cooperation, separated parents can create memorable holiday experiences that children will cherish.
FAQs
- How far in advance should separated parents plan summer vacation schedules?
Parents should start planning summer vacations at least 3-4 months in advance, with written notification to the other parent as per their parenting agreement or court order. In Alberta, many agreements require 30-60 days minimum notice. - What happens if both parents want to take the children on vacation during the same time period?
If there’s a conflict, the parenting agreement’s terms usually prevail. If not specified, the regular parenting schedule typically takes precedence, or parents must negotiate. In Alberta courts, if no agreement is reached, the regular access schedule remains in effect. - Do I need the other parent’s consent to take my child out of Alberta or Canada?
Yes, written consent from the other parent is required for international travel. For domestic travel outside Alberta, written consent is strongly recommended and may be required by your parenting agreement. - What documentation is needed when traveling with children as a separated parent?
Required documents include a consent letter from the other parent, custody agreement or court order, children’s passports, birth certificates, and any relevant immigration documents. Border officials may request these at any point. - How are holidays typically divided between separated parents in Alberta?
Common arrangements include alternating major holidays yearly, splitting holiday time equally, or maintaining set holidays with specific parents. The arrangement should be clearly outlined in the parenting agreement. - Can a parent deny the other parent’s vacation plans with the children?
A parent can object if the vacation interferes with court-ordered parenting time, poses safety concerns, or violates the parenting agreement. Disputes may require mediation or court intervention. - What happens if one parent needs to change vacation plans last minute?
Parents should have a clause in their agreement addressing schedule changes. Generally, the parent making changes should provide immediate notice and may be responsible for any costs incurred by the schedule change. - How should communication about vacation details be handled between separated parents?
Vacation details should be communicated in writing, including travel dates, destinations, accommodation details, and emergency contact information. Email or specialized co-parenting apps are recommended for documentation. - Are there specific restrictions on international travel with children during COVID-19 in Alberta?
Parents must comply with current federal travel advisories, vaccination requirements, and quarantine rules. Both parents should agree on health and safety measures for international travel. - How are vacation expenses typically handled between separated parents?
Unless specified in the parenting agreement, each parent usually covers their own vacation expenses with the children. Shared expenses should be clearly outlined in the agreement.
