Co-Parenting Through Summer: Embracing the First Solo Trip With Your Kids

Summer break is supposed to be filled with sunshine, ice cream, and long, carefree days. But if you're going through a divorce or navigating your first summer as a co-parent, this season can feel anything but relaxing—especially when you’re staring down that first solo trip with your kids.

The packing. The logistics. The absence of your co-parent. The emotional weight of doing something familiar in a brand-new way—it’s a lot. And if it feels strange or uncomfortable, that's because it is.

But here’s the truth we tell every parent we work with at Family Transitions®: That weird, awkward, emotional first is also an incredibly important one.

Why It Feels So Hard

When you’re used to experiencing family vacations as a united front, the idea of going it alone can bring a flood of mixed emotions. Maybe it feels unfair. Maybe it feels lonely. Maybe you’re scared your kids will sense your discomfort—or worse, reflect it.

This is all normal.

Grieving the loss of a familiar routine is part of the healing process. And just because you're doing something different doesn't mean it's wrong—it means you're adjusting, evolving, and beginning to create new traditions.

The Power of Positivity

Children are emotional sponges. They take their cues from us. If you approach your trip with dread or visible sadness, your kids may absorb that energy and begin to question whether they’re “allowed” to have fun.

But if you show up with even a slightly forced smile and a plan to make the best of your time together, something beautiful happens: you give them permission to be happy, too.

That doesn't mean ignoring your feelings. It means modeling resilience. It means saying, “Yes, this is different—but we’re still going to have fun. We’re still going to make memories. We’re still a family.”

Tips for a Successful First Solo Trip

Here are a few simple ways to set yourself up for a smoother summer travel experience with your children:

• Prepare Practically: Make a packing checklist, plan out meals and snacks, and set realistic expectations for what the trip will look like.

• Start New Traditions: Whether it’s a nightly card game or a goofy road trip playlist, use this time to begin building rituals that are yours.

• Build in Flexibility: Solo parenting on the go is exhausting. Permit yourself to adapt plans if needed. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection.

• Stay Positive Out Loud: Verbalize the good moments. “I’m so glad we’re doing this together.” “This feels different, but I’m proud of us.” It reassures your children—and yourself.

It Gets Easier—And More Meaningful

The first solo trip will probably feel strange. But over time, it will start to feel like yours. These new experiences will become part of your family’s story, one that’s grounded in strength, love, and your ability to move forward, even when it’s hard.

At Family Transitions®, we support families just like yours through every stage of this journey—from early conversations to summer logistics and long-term co-parenting strategies.

💬 Schedule a consultation to learn how we can support you through the transitions ahead. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.