Fair and Clear Ways to Split Expenses for Your Child’s Summer Fun

As summer approaches, many co-parents begin thinking about camps, sports leagues, and enrichment programs to keep their kids active, engaged, and cared for during the long break. But along with the excitement comes a common question: Who pays for summer activities?

At Couples Solutions Center, we regularly help families navigate the financial side of co-parenting. Whether you're following a court order or working things out informally, having clarity around summer expenses is key to preventing misunderstandings and keeping your child’s well-being at the center of the conversation.

If you're struggling to agree on summer expenses, our mediation services at Couples Solutions Center can help. We offer a supportive space to build shared agreements that work for your family, this summer and beyond.

1. Start with Your Parenting Plan

The first place to look is your existing parenting plan or court order. Many plans include language about how parents will divide:

• Extracurricular activity costs

• Childcare-related expenses

• Summer camps (especially if they serve as daycare)

  
  

If your plan doesn’t address summer specifically, now is a great time to talk about adding an agreement or seeking mediation to clarify expectations moving forward.

2. Differentiate Between Childcare and Enrichment

In legal and financial terms, there’s often a distinction between:

• Childcare-based camps (needed while a parent works)

• Enrichment-based activities (like art, sports, or travel camps)

  
  

Before enrolling your child, discuss:

• The purpose of the camp

• The total cost and any available discounts

• Whether both parents agree it’s reasonable and necessary

  
  

3. Communicate Before You Commit

Surprise bills can lead to serious co-parenting conflict. Avoid this by:

• Getting written confirmation before registering your child

• Sharing brochures, dates, and pricing in advance

• Asking for feedback, not just informing

  
  

4. Use a Shared Expense Tracker

A shared document, app, or family finance tool can help keep summer costs organized and transparent. Useful tools include:

• OurFamilyWizard

• TalkingParents

• Splitwise (for informal use)

  
  

Be sure to:

• Track receipts and proof of payment

• Note due dates and refund policies

• Confirm who’s paying what and when

  
  

5. Plan for Unexpected or Uneven Costs

One parent may want to sign the child up for a specialized camp or an expensive trip. If this wasn’t agreed upon, the other parent may not be obligated to pay. When this happens:

• Offer alternatives (e.g., split basic camp cost, the other covers the upgrade)

• Consider offering a trade in parenting time or other support

• Seek mediation if you can’t reach an agreement

6. Put Agreements in Writing

Even if things are amicable, a written record is always a good idea. A quick email or shared note can help prevent confusion later.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about parenting mediation.