While the kids probably don’t want to hear it, it is close to the start of the school year. For co-parenting adults, this abrupt switch after a leisurely summer schedule can be a time they dread.
If you find yourself in that number, below are some tips to assist with a smoother transition.
Managing the switch
Depending on the ages of your children, you may need to remind them of the upcoming changes now so they won’t be surprised when summer bedtime rules are gone. In general, the younger kids are, the more they struggle in the moment with transitions, although they readily adapt overall.
Tweens and teens face school-year challenges, too
The tween and teen years can be rough and unforgiving, especially to children who already feel thrown by their parents’ divorces. However, these two groups tend not to be as obviously distraught by the scheduling changes — but it doesn’t mean they are unaffected.
Especially if you are relying upon a custody agreement that was signed years ago when your children were younger, it may be time to head back to the mediation table. As children grow into tweens and teens, their own schedules must also be accommodated. Make sure that your current agreement doesn’t give short shrift to your adolescents’ needs.
Addressing the need for custody changes
Some co-parents are able to put aside any lingering recriminations and animosity to work out custody schedules that work best for their kids. Others may need a little nudge to negotiate a workable plan.
It is always preferable to have a court-approved plan in place that co-parents can follow. Drafting a new order when your family outgrows the old custody agreement protects both the co-parents’ and children’s rights.