A new school year often brings excitement and fresh routines for children, but it can also create challenges for parents navigating custody and co-parenting arrangements. Between coordinating schedules, managing transportation, and keeping up with school events, there’s a lot to balance. Add in extracurricular activities, expenses, and unexpected days off, and it’s easy for tension to rise if parents aren’t on the same page.
Taking time at the beginning of the academic year to review expectations and establish clear routines can make the months ahead smoother for everyone. With the right strategies, co-parents can ease transitions, reduce conflict, and set their kids up for a positive year ahead.
Here are a few practical co-parenting tips to help you start the school year on the right foot:
Use a shared calendar
A shared calendar can help both parents keep track of school schedules, activities, appointments, and special events. This can reduce confusion and keep everyone informed as the year goes on.
Coordinate transportation
Discuss and confirm how your child will get to and from school, as well as any before or after-school care.
Plan for extracurricular activities
Decide together which after-school activities your child will participate in and coordinate who will handle transportation.
Review your custody order.
As the school year begins, take the time to look over your order so you understand what information you’re required to share with the other parent.
Notify the school
Make teachers and administrators aware of your situation and let them know that both parents should be included on email lists, school apps, and document distribution. You can also provide the school with a copy of your order, if needed.
Discuss school expenses
Talk about school-related costs, such as supplies, fees, or extracurricular expenses, and follow the guidelines in your custody order for handling them.
Maintain consistency
Whenever possible, keep routines like homework, bedtime, and communication with the other parent consistent across households. A steady routine provides children with essential stability during the school year.
Plan for unexpected days
Work out a plan for childcare on sick days, snow days, school breaks, and other times when the regular school schedule is disrupted.
The school year can be demanding for co-parents, but when you approach it with clear communication and flexibility, it becomes much easier to manage. Working together with your child’s best interests in mind creates a stable environment where they can thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Every family’s situation is different, and even with careful planning, questions or conflicts can still come up during the school year. When they do, having trusted guidance can make all the difference. If you have questions about your custody order or need help addressing co-parenting challenges, our family law team is here to provide you with the support you need.