Co-Parenting During the School Year
As children head back to school, there are so many things to be concerned with-- class schedules, school supplies and a calendar full of activities. While this time of transition can be often be hectic, co-parenting can add stress to everyone involved and unfortunately, children's performance in school may suffer. By approaching the school year with your child's other parent mindfully and with a clear plan in place, you can ensure a happy, healthy school year for all concerned.
Focusing On Your Child Helps Them Focus on School
Always bear in mind that your child's success in school is the first priority during the school year, and your job is a parent to make sure that the logistics line up to make that happen. Communicate with your child's parent to ensure that homework doesn't get misplaced during timesharing exchanges, and verify that all permission slips and necessary forms are completed on time. Whatever conflict may exist between the parents, it must be set aside to ensure that a child's school performance does not suffer. It can be tough the first year of divorce when parents are focused on creating arrangements and dealing with lawyers. The first few months after a divorce can be a challenging time, but over time, a routine will develop that allows the parents to work together, even in separate homes.
Have Household Standards
While you have will different rules and customs in your separate homes, it's important to maintain a consistent routine during the school year. Providing your child with the stability of schedule and expectation for homework and bedtime will give them security, even if they're splitting their school week between your home and that of your former spouse.
Rethink the Schedule as your Child Grows
As kids grow and activities change, parents should take another look at the schedule and decide what is best for the child. Even the best schedule requires some room for flexibility to respond to unexpected changes or new needs of a child, If something that worked last school year has no place in this year's routine, be open to a conversation with your child's parent to make the necessary adjustments. As your child gets older, he should be allowed to weigh in on the schedule, too. It should take into account his activities and his need to be in the home where he can see his peers, practice the guitar or type a paper on the computer.
The Bulger Firm is committed to Florida's families. If you're facing challenges in co-parenting, call 904-608-3694 to speak with an experienced family law attorney.