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Need to prepare for your child’s care?

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We know, there is nothing pleasant about thinking about worst-case scenarios, but it needs to be done. Right out of the gate put your life insurance, estate planning, child care authorization.

A child care authorization allows someone to temporarily care for or make decisions about your kids, such as allowing your nanny to pick them up from daycare. If you want to grant legal authority to make major decisions, create a power of attorney for a child instead.

If the caregivers in charge of your kids are not the same people named as the guardians in your will, a child care authorization gives them permission to make decisions and sign documents (like permission slips or school enrollment forms) on their behalf. If you don't already have a will, the month before a vacation is the perfect time to visit your lawyer and create one, since taking long drives and flights, visiting foreign places and doing outdoor activities have the potential for danger.

Create a binder with all the documents

Make sure that everything is in the same location. Schedules, copies of each document, travel itineraries, contact information. Make sure that the caregiver/nanny is fully informed of all activities and needs that the kids might have. Include all official (kid) documents: passports, immunization records, insurance cards, official birth certificates.

Leave your child with someone he/she is comfortable with

If you don't have a nanny, it's important that you leave the kids with people that make them feel comfortable. Grandparents, aunts, and godparents are always a good option. Leave a box full of ways to keep the children entertained as well.

Be extra prepared

Leave a set of house keys and car keys. Place some spending money in an envelope and include a credit card for groceries or emergencies.

Have fun; you deserve it! And if you have any questions, let us know or Ask a Lawyer, happy travels!

This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Rocket Lawyer is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.


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