713-333-4430What divorced parents should know as their child goes back to school
As summer ends and school starts, divorced parents face new challenges. Responsibilities revolving around child custody in Houston drastically change once summer vacation is over, especially for newly divorced parents. It is important to work together to manage schedules, attend parent-teacher conferences and handle daily school routines. What should you and your ex know?
Choose a way to communicate
Good communication is key when co-parenting. Pick a method that works for both of you, like texting, emailing or using a co-parenting app. Make sure to share information about school activities, homework and events clearly and keep the focus on what’s best for your child. Remember, this is a significant period of adjusting for both parents and their children. If a parent refuses to communicate how the child is doing and what they could use assistance with, they will make the process more difficult for every party involved.
Divide responsibilities
Decide who will do what. Who will take the kids to school? Who will help with homework? Who will pack lunches or pay for school lunches? Discussing this early helps prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.
It is especially important to figure out how the custody schedule works during the school months so that responsibilities are evenly divided and both know who will pick up the child after school on which days. Failure to maintain the scheduling or complying with other child custody orders can result in a Houston court order enforcement.
Have a plan for events
As school begins, school events do, too. You should have a plan in place for these events to ensure that your child has the support they need. You may choose to have both parents attend these events or take turns going to various events such as fundraisers, field trips, sports games, etc.
Be ready for changes
The school year might bring surprises like rescheduled events, cancelled school or other sudden changes. Stay flexible and consider having a plan in place with your ex for how you will handle these surprises.
Make sure you also review and make arrangements for various holidays throughout the school year such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. The first holidays after a divorce for Houston families can be difficult, but proper preparation and communication with your ex can make the process easier.
Try to be consistent
Try to keep rules the same in both homes. This includes homework, bedtime, and screen time. Consistency helps your child know what to expect with each parent.
Handling the school year while sharing custody involves teamwork, good communication and focusing on your child’s needs. By planning ahead, staying informed and keeping a positive attitude, you can make your child’s school experience rewarding and less stressful.
If you need help with any other post-divorce issues, contact a seasoned and trusted Texas family law attorney for a confidential consultation by calling our divorce law firm at 713-333-4430. The attorneys at Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC can provide you with the guidance you need for problems that arise before and after a divorce.
Attorney Kevin Hunter at Boudreaux Hunter & Associates, LLC has experience with child custody, spousal support, high conflict divorce, and is fully equipped to guide you through the process. Learn more about Kevin on his profile here.
