As the school year begins, it’s time for co-parents to set a positive tone for the entire academic year. For children, the start of school is a time of excitement and change, but it can also inspire stress, especially if they are transitioning between two households. By working together, co-parents can help their children start the school year on the right foot.
The school year often inspires fairly predictable – yet, not always convenient – challenges, such as changes in schedules, homework loads and extracurricular activities. Co-parents should do what they can to remain flexible and supportive, understanding that adjustments may be necessary to accommodate their child’s evolving needs. With that said, there are ways to guard proactively against some of the stresses that the school year can bring.
Moving forward together
Children thrive on routine. When possible and appropriate, consistency between households can help them to feel secure and focused. Co-parents can collaborate to create a schedule that works for both families. Coordinating school drop-offs and pick-ups, homework time, extracurricular activities and bedtime routines is a good way to get started. A consistent routine across both homes can minimize confusion and help children adjust more easily to the demands of the school year.
To that end, it’s important to keep in mind that the start of the school year can be overwhelming for children, especially if they are newly dealing with changes in their family structure. Co-parents should prioritize their child’s emotional well-being by providing a united front and focusing on their needs to the extent that they can. If you co-parent with your ex, by putting your child’s needs first, you can help them succeed academically and emotionally.
All of these approaches are certainly easier said than done. However, good intentions combined with solid effort can go a long way as the school year unfolds.
