Picking out new school clothes and school supplies, meeting new teachers, and adjusting schedules can make getting the kids back to school stressful for any family, but for divorced parents, this time can be even more stressful as custody issues can often impact schedules, purchasing decisions and even school choice.
There are ways to make this stressful time easier for you and your children by minimizing the opportunity for conflict between you and your former spouse and keeping the back to school experience as smooth as possible for you, your children and the school.
BE A PLANNER
Back to school also means back to activities. Band practice, school plays and football games will begin to fill your child’s schedule. It is important for you to be a planner in these situations.
Go ahead and sit down with the school system’s year-long calendar and identify days that are school holidays or early dismissal days. Make sure you and your child’s other parent are clear on which parent will pick up your child and drop off your child at school and who will be with your child on each holiday break or early dismissal day.
Being aware of upcoming events and holidays and planning for any potential conflicts with your visitation schedule will alleviate a source of conflict and confusion.
BE UP FRONT WITH COSTS
Back to school season comes at a price. School uniforms, new notebooks and school fees can add up quickly. It is important that you communicate with your child’s other parents about the expected costs that are associated with your child’s education. Keep track of this costs and document them with receipts so that there is no confusion about who paid for what and how much each required item costs. Communication and documentation are key to decreasing conflict over back to school related expenditures.
If you would like to discuss custody issues with us, please give Agricola Law a call at 334-759-7557.
Call Barbi Agricola For Legal Aid During A Divorce Or Custody Battle.
Here at Agricola Law, we’d like to take the opportunity to wish you a happy holiday. We’re pleased to continue serving your East Alabama and Chattahoochee Valley family law needs throughout 2019. To schedule a meeting with an experienced attorney, contact us today.Share on: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn