Family Matters

“Back to School” Co-parenting Tips

Navigating the school year and the start of extra-curricular activities is hard enough. When you are separated or divorced, it can be even more challenging. However, having a detailed custody and parenting time Order can alleviate a lot of unnecessary stress for co-parents and their children. To ensure a smooth start to school year, we suggest co-parents consider having an agreement in place for the following:

• Who is responsible for obtaining school supplies for the children and how are the school supply costs to be divided, if at all.
• What is the protocol for when a child is sick and needs to be picked up early from school or needs to stay home from school due to illness.
• What activities are the children participating in each season, and who is responsible for registering the children for each activity.
• How are the children’s activities, equipment, uniforms, and registration expenses to be divided, if at all.
• Who is responsible for assisting the children with school projects or studying for exams.
• What method of communication is best to use when discussing issues pertaining to the children, absent an emergency.
• How are school events and dances to be paid for and who is responsible for shopping for the children’s attire for school sponsored functions.

The above list is not exhaustive. If you are having difficulty getting on the same page with your co-parent regarding your children’s education and activities, please do not hesitate to contact us.  We are committed to helping you navigate the challenges of co-parenting to ensure your children have a successful academic year.

The information contained in this publication should not be construed as legal advice, is not a substitute for legal counsel, and should not be relied on as such. For legal advice or answers to specific questions, please contact one of our attorneys.