School Planning Tips for Co-Parents

Co-parenting can be difficult during the summertime when there isn’t a lot of routine or structure. But when it comes to going back to school and establishing routines and new schedules, those who co-parent may find they are facing a whole different set of challenges.

For children, going back to school means seeing their friends and finding out who their teacher is. However, if they live between two homes, they may feel a little anxiety about the changes going on and splitting time between their parents. Here are a few tips to make going back to school just a little easier for your child when you’re co-parenting:

Have a party

Have you ever heard of an end-of-summer party? It’s a great way to get your child or children together with their school friends, and it can get them excited about going back to school and spending time with their friends. During this party – or even just after – both parents can take this time to talk to their child and explain the details about what’s coming up for them and what they can expect to happen.

Talk to your kids, tell them what’s happening

Children are pretty perceptive to what’s going in their family and home life, so they probably know that something is changing. Talking to your children about what’s going on and what their schedule will be like between two homes when they go back to school will make them feel included in decisions and have some control over their life – this can help ease any anxiety they might have. If permitted, this is a fantastic time to give them some choices in their schedule so they can feel like they’re even more involved in what’s going on.

Meet the teacher together

If possible, make an effort to meet your child(ren)’s teacher together. This will make it easier for the teacher not to have to communicate everything twice, and it can also give your child(ren) a little more security in knowing that their parents are jointly involved in their school life.

Attend school events together

If schedules allow (and sometimes this can’t happen), try to make sure both you and your ex attend school and sporting events. Your child wants both of you there to watch them and cheer them on. As long as schedules allow, try your best to both attend your child’s events.

Be there for your child

One of the most important aspects of co-parenting is simply just being there for your child. It’s a big deal for both parents to be equally involved in whatever happens in your child’s life. Talk to your child, ask them about their day and what is going on in their life.

While you and your ex-partner could not make your romantic relationship work, you have the opportunity to make your co-parenting relationship work for your child and their wellbeing. By working together, communicating and putting your child’s best interest first, you can reduce their anxiety and help them adjust to going back to school this year.

Contact Fine & Associates today

If you are having issues working things out with your ex in your co-parenting roles and would like the advice of a family lawyer, contact Fine and Associates today.