Navigating your child’s school year after divorce in California can be tricky. Luckily, there are a few ways to make this transition easier. Forbes offers key insights to maintain a smooth school year in an environment of two households.
One suggestion is to actively involve your child in the planning. Ask your child to assess his or her goals for the year. Encourage your child to share the goals with both parents so everyone is on the same page. If your child is old enough, you may want to include him or her in the financial aspects of extra activities, such as tracking the expenses or helping pay for them as an opportunity to teach responsibility. When it comes to homework, you will not be able to control what happens in the other home, but you can help your child find a strategy that works for him or her and can be implemented regardless of where he or she is staying.
Another idea to keep things on track is to align with the other parent on the aforementioned goals and extra expenses. It can be difficult to find common ground with your former spouse in some circumstances, but it is helpful for continuity during your child’s school year. For example, figure out costs that may come up during the year that are not covered by the settlement agreement, such as social events or school trips. The year will run smoother if you agree ahead of time who will be financially responsible for these items.
While a school year that involves two homes can be more complex, there are ways to overcome potential roadblocks ahead of time. A little planning goes a long way toward setting your child up for success. Keep your child’s goals and extra expenses in mind from the outset and the school year will be easier for everyone.