Returning to school with parents who are newly separated or divorced can be a difficult transition for a child. School personnel will need to be informed of the new family dynamic and understand the role each parent will take with regard to the child's education.
If you and your ex-spouse have an amicable relationship, co-parenting your child throughout the school years will foster an atmosphere of support and compassion that will help mitigate peer and academic pressure your child will likely encounter.
Keep the following in mind to assist your child getting back into the routine at school:
- Meet the teachers, or at least the homeroom teacher, and alert him or her to the family situation. A compassionate teacher may see signs of stress or depression in your child faster than you will. Teachers are well experienced with all types of family dynamics.
- Consider talking to your child's guidance counselor. They can be a terrific ally for support and sometimes run support groups for children of divorced parents, single-parent families and families where a parent has died.
- If your child is on a sports team, talk to the coach. A child's stress may not be evident until they are on the playing field.
Strive to create and maintain a schedule with regard to homework. At each parent’s home, establish a dedicated area to do homework in your home and a specific time that homework is to be completed. When your child is visiting with your ex-spouse for the weekend, make certain your ex knows the homework expectations for the weekend. If the weekend must be dedicated to working on a school project, give your spouse ample notice to help ensure that your child will have enough time and support to finish the work.
Getting Legal Help
Experienced Sacramento Family Law Attorneys Hal Bartholomew, Diane Wasznicky, and the associates at Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP can help you navigate your divorce and child custody issues with respect and compassion. Contact Bartholomew & Wasznicky LLP today for knowledgeable and respectful representation. Call us at (916) 455-5200 or email us at info@DivorceWithRespect.com
