Filing for divorce in a New York court during your child’s summer break from school means that he or she will likely be going through an adjustment period when classes resume in the fall. Your child might have close friends outside of school who are already aware of the changes in your household. However, when school begins again, certain child custody issues may arise that make things stressful for your son or daughter.
It’s helpful to let your child know that it’s okay to answer questions from friends or teachers regarding your divorce. It’s also okay for your child to politely say that he or she would rather not talk about it. In fact, as far as teachers are concerned, it might be best if you and your ex talk to them (as well as coaches, counselors, etc.) ahead of time, so that they are aware of the situation and can let you know if your child is showing signs of distress.
A detailed child custody plan can help alleviate back-to-school stress
There are several things that you can do to help minimize stress as your child heads back to school for the first time since you filed for divorce. Keep these helpful ideas in mind:
- If you and your ex don’t get along, you can agree to let other people help with carpooling to keep interactions between the two of you to a minimum.
- Explore the numerous cell phone apps that are available to assist co-parents after divorce.
- Make sure that your child custody agreement is detailed and thorough, incorporating any and all issues that are relevant to your child’s school year, such as who will attend which special events and which parent a teacher should call if there’s a problem or emergency at school.
- Try to maintain a healthy regimen of self-care, because being emotionally, mentally and physically fit will undoubtedly help you feel capable if a child custody issue arises.
Every family’s divorce situation is unique. You know what’s best for your child, and you also know what the trigger or problem issues were in your marriage. Try to think ahead to avoid trouble and to create a plan that focuses on your child’s best interests.
If you do all of that and a child custody problem still arises
Any number of issues may arise that create child custody tension between you and your co-parent after divorce. When such an issue pertains to school, it can cause your son your daughter a lot of stress, which is why it’s always best to try to resolve disagreements swiftly and as peacefully as possible.
It’s a good idea to enlist outside support, if you feel that you cannot resolve a particular problem on your own.