Co-parenting after a divorce is not always easy, and when back-to-school issues are thrown into the mix, it can become even more stressful. But there are ways to make things easier for parents and children – so stress levels are lower, and everyone can have a good experience.
Scheduling should not be complicated
There is no need to over-complicate your shared schedules. That can stress a child out more than nearly anything else when it comes to co-parenting. The schedule parents set should be simple, consistent and followed. There may need to be occasional exceptions, but these should truly be exceptions, and not the default state when times get difficult.
Extra-curricular activities need careful planning
A lot of children want to be part of extra-curricular activities, but signing a child up when that time will interfere with the time granted to the other parent can be problematic. It may also not be possible for the other parent to drive the child to that activity, so it’s important to talk through these kinds of concerns with your co-parent before signing a child up for any kind of extra-curricular activity.
Overnights need to work with school hours and days
When children live in two different locations due to a divorce, getting to school and following a routine is not always easy. Spending the night at one parent’s house can put them farther from school, their friends and everything they are used to. That needs to be considered and addressed based on the agreement between the parents and any ruling the court has provided in the divorce decree. In some cases, overnights during the school week may just not be practical.
Working together for the best interest of the child is key
No matter how stressful co-parenting can get, the main goal is to always work together for the child’s best interests. That is not always easy, but it is always worthwhile and valuable. Doing so can make back-to-school time easier for everyone.
