1. Communicate Your Child’s Schedule With Your Ex
It takes time to adjust to any change in your life. For recently divorced parents it can be especially challenging to get used to your new parenting plan. When your child starts school and they have a new schedule it is important for both parents to understand what this schedule looks like so they can plan accordingly. It’s difficult for an entire family to keep up with everything that happens during the school year.
Sharing your child’s schedule ahead of time will enable parents to plan for after-school activities, as well as the items and transportation required for them. This will also allow for both parents to be aware of important events such as conferences, exams, report cards, permission slips, and other pertinent information. Not only will this allow for an easier adjustment for both parents but it will provide a smoother transition to the school year for your child as everyone will be on the same page.
2. Notify Your Child’s Teacher
Prior to the start of the new school year, it is important to notify your child’s new teachers of your family situation. Teachers should be made aware of the family dynamic, the custody arrangement you have in place, and to be on the lookout for any emotional impacts they might witness in your child. You can also take this time to make sure that both parents are added to any mailing lists for school newsletters, updates, fundraisers, and field trips. Teachers will accommodate separate parent-teacher conferences if they are requested. It is in the best interest of the child that both parents set aside their differences for the sake of the child in addition to the meeting, but if that is not possible, they should hold two meetings. You should require two copies of any paperwork like forms, report cards, and letters that are sent home.
3. Don’t Do It All Yourself
Getting ready for a new school year is surely going to bring additional stress to an already tense situation. The best way to get through this is not to put the entire burden on yourself. Get your child involved in their own packing, explaining what they will need for school and why. Your child may have items they need to bring that you don’t have or forgot about, like a certain type of pencil or a certain type of backpack. This is the best way to avoid last-minute shopping sprees and keep your costs down. You should separate the list of required school supplies with your ex to minimize the amount you need to purchase.
