Summer can be a magical time for kids—but for co-parents, it often raises the age-old question: Who pays for all of this? Camp, sports, childcare, and family activities can add up fast, and if you’re sharing parenting responsibilities, those costs can become contentious. Here’s what Colorado families need to know.
What Are “Extraordinary Expenses” in Colorado?
Under Colorado law, extraordinary expenses are typically those not covered by basic child support. These include:
- Summer camp and childcare when school is out
- Special tutoring or therapy
- Uninsured medical or dental costs
- Extracurricular activities like sports or music lessons
According to C.R.S. 14-10-115, these expenses can be added on top of basic support and usually split proportionally based on parental income.
How to Avoid Conflict
- Refer to Your Agreement: Check your separation or parenting agreement to see what it says about cost-sharing.
- Use Tracking Tools: Apps like SupportPay or a shared Google Sheet can help track who paid for what and when.
- Talk Early, Document Everything: Talk about costs before signing kids up for summer programs. Text or email to keep records.
- Know What’s Reasonable: If one parent signs the child up for a $3,000 overnight camp without agreement, don’t assume you’ll be reimbursed.
Rising Costs = More Tension
According to a recent NBC article, the average cost of summer camp has climbed by 12% year-over-year. That kind of spike can lead to increased tension if not handled collaboratively.
What If You Disagree?
If you’re stuck in disagreement:
- Try mediation first. A neutral third party (like me!) can help you reach a fair agreement without the cost of court.
- Consult the court. If necessary, you can request a modification or clarification through the Colorado courts. Start here: Colorado Courts Self-Help Center.
Final Thoughts
Summer should be fun—not a financial battlefield. The best thing you can do is plan ahead, keep communication open, and document agreements.
Need help creating a plan that works for both of you? Contact Liz for a free consult.