Four Tips for Co-Parents Getting Back Into a School Routine

 Posted on August 10, 2022 in Family Law

Kids may not be so excited for school to start again in the fall, but parents are usually ready to get back to a routine and get bored, fighting kids out of the house. But the back-to-school ritual takes a lot of preparation and this is especially true when divorced parents are coordinating clothing, school supplies, and after-school plans in two different households. 

While it can be normal to feel some trepidation as you approach the school year for the first time since your Illinois divorce, taking the time to plan ahead can go a long way toward preventing conflict and confusion in the first few days of school. Here are four tips for co-parents getting ready to send kids back to school this fall. 

Start the School Bedtime Schedule Early

Getting up early for school can cause a lot of grumbling, as any parent of school-aged children knows. Although your kids will be reluctant to wake up early just to get ready for the school schedule, start adjusting their wake times at least a week ahead of time. Even better, try to get your ex to join you so your plans do not get completely set back over the weekend. 

Coordinate School Shopping

Child support is intended to cover school supplies, but do not be afraid to talk to your ex about how to coordinate school shopping. Get a sense of what your child already has at their other parent’s home so you do not accidentally buy two of certain things. Give your kids as much choice as possible in their clothes and school supplies so they can feel involved. 

Reduce the Unknowns

Kids go through a lot of changes during divorce. New homes, new furniture, new parenting arrangements - these things can take a toll. Minimize the unknown by giving your kids as much information as possible. If you can, let them visit their new school and classroom so they know what to expect. Go over their schedule, set realistic homework expectations, and make sure they know how to get ahold of you during the day if there is an emergency. 

Coordinate Homework with Your Ex

While not all parents get along well enough to make major decisions together, parents who share parental responsibilities around education will need to discuss their plans for a child’s schooling. This includes making sure homework gets done on time and turned in. It is very stressful to feel as though homework only gets done if you are supervising it, so try to coordinate specific plans to make sure your kid does not slack during visits with their other parent. 

Meet with a Hinsdale, IL Parenting Time Lawyer

A great parenting time schedule is essential for making a smooth transition back to school. If you are getting divorced and wondering how you want to divide custody during the summer months, get sound legal advice from an experienced DuPage County parenting time lawyer with Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio. We have worked with many families to create a parenting plan that fits everyone’s schedule and preferences. Call us today at 630-920-8855 to schedule a free consultation. 

Source: 

https://novakdjokovicfoundation.org/back-school-tips-parents/