It’s that time of year again when the weather gets cooler, the days get shorter, and kids are back in school. Parents who share custody of their kids may be faced once again to adjusting to a different routine, depending on the parenting plan.
But even if the parents do not get along, it can be beneficial for all involved to try to work together. Once school starts, parents may find themselves in situations where they have to get along with their ex-spouse, even if only for a few hours. If parents aren’t careful, their kids could be affected by disagreements that may arise.
By nature, divorce is a very emotional process and can leave both parties with lingering frustrations. Even so, parents should still try to work together and do what’s best for the kids involved. This can be especially important as the school year brings events such as parent-teacher conferences and sporting events where both may be present.
The article gives several suggestions on ways that parents can work together to maintain a civil relationship in the context of their child’s education:
- Keep arguments behind closed doors
- Be present at school meetings
- Make yourself available to your kid’s teachers
- Do what’s best for your children
Ultimately, parents only have as much time with their kids as the custody agreement allows. Making the most of that time can only strengthen a parent-child relationship. Not only that, but children tend to remember everything, including arguments and absent parents. Maintaining a united front can help a child with the natural transitions of school on top of transitioning from home to home after a divorce.
Source: Huffington Post: “Co-Parenting and Football,” Richard “RJ” Jaramillo, Sept. 2, 2011
