With summer break coming to an end, your thoughts as a parent are likely turning toward the new school year. If you have spent the summer working on a divorce, it’s important to consider how the return to school will be different for you and your child.
You likely had your standard weekday routine to ensure the kids got to school on time, got back home again and got their homework done. That probably involved you and your spouse sharing tasks, and stepping in to cover when one of you could not fulfill their usual role due to illness, a work meeting or any other such event.
You’ll need a new routine
Routines help a child feel stable and that is something they may be in great need of right now. Developing a stable school day routine allows them to focus on studying and having fun with their friends, rather than stressing about who is going to pick them up, or help them with their science homework. Even things such as going to bed at the same time in each household can help.
Set up a system to share information
Letting the school know you are divorcing also lets the teachers keep an eye on your child and feedback on any changes they notice. You can also ask them to copy you both into emails to avoid you having to pass on so many messages, especially if the two of you are barely on speaking terms. You might also want to set up a shared calendar to help you both stay informed.
Learning more about how to create a parenting plan that accounts for the school year and the breaks is a wise step to take.
