The backpacks are full, lunches are packed, new clothes are laid out, but are you ready to start co-parenting for the new school year?

Here are some helpful tips to make things easier this school year.

Tip One

Make sure the school knows who is authorized to pick up the kids. You may need to update this list to include a reliable friend or a new babysitter. You may even need to add your co-parent if they have not been on the list previously.

Tip Two

Make sure your kids know their schedule. While it’s never a good idea to talk negatively about the co-parent, you do need to let the kids who will picking them up or which bus they need to ride home. Remember this can be very stressful for kids, so don’t be afraid to send a note to their teacher if they need a reminder. If you need help deciding which parenting plan may be best for your situation, check out THIS VIDEO.

Tip Three

Do you need a date – with your kids? It is normal for kids to miss the other parent during a week with only one parent. Consider adding a dinner night once a week where you can check in about homework, teachers, extracurriculars, etc. Zoom isn’t just for business! Can’t meet in person? Try an online date scheduled for a specific time. Even if it’s just dessert, you can share a favorite candy together during FaceTime.

Tip Four 

Work together to keep schedules similar. Homework time, snack rules, bedtime and grade expectations are just a few of issues you should be discussing with your co-parent. Don’t want to meet in person? Use a parenting app to text. Remember to be “professional” in all communications, even when you are frustrated.

Now that school is back, co-parenting for the new school year should be a top priority.

For Divorcing Parents

For more tips and an updated guide for divorcing parents, please sign up for our 4 Hour ONLINE parenting class. Take the class at your own pace. We are an approved provider.

The 4 Hour parenting seminar is mandatory for all divorcing parents in Tennessee. In the parent education class we answer many questions about new laws in Tennessee divorce lawsuits. We also have more information on the website and on our YouTube Channel.