A Power of Attorney for a minor child functions in some limited ways like a guardianship, but there are major differences.
A Power of Attorney allows a non-parent to temporarily take over certain (but not all) parenting responsibilities for a minor child.
Both parents must agree to grant a third party the Power of Attorney, assuming the child has two parents.
The Power of Attorney generally grants to a third party the right to make educational and healthcare decisions for the child during that time. That third party will want to notify schools and doctors of the existence of the Power of Attorney.
A Power of Attorney generally lasts six months, but you may be able to extend it under certain circumstances. Many people choose to extend it to 9 months so that the child can spend a full school-year away from home.
Give me a call to discuss your options. A Power of Attorney is relatively inexpensive, and may be a better option than a Guardianship, depending on your circumstances.