Back-to-School
It’s back to school time! Transitioning from summer to the school can be challenging for children and adults – especially when parents are divorced or in the process of a divorce and living in separate homes. As a Chicago Divorce Attorney, I have shared ideas with clients that may help your family’s transition back to school as well. Organization and communication are key components for a smooth start to the school year. Here are some suggestions to make your children’s back to school experience easier.
- Communicate: Many parenting schedules change during the school year. Avoid confusion by informing your children in advance about the different schedule. A couple of days to a week is sufficient to discuss scheduling changes depending on the ages of your children – younger kids need less time – too much notice may be overwhelming.
- Make a calendar: Make a monthly calendar noting which day they will be with each parent. For younger children who are not yet able to read – use symbols or pictures.
- Find a place to post it: Post the schedule where everyone can see it. Review the changes and inquire if anyone has questions. Keeping the kids informed about their schedule, and who will be picking them up from school or an activity, helps to ease anxiety.
- Consistency equals comfort: If you have good communication with your former spouse, consider sharing the schedule with them so that the children can view the same calendar in each home.
- Early to bed…early to rise: One of the most challenging issues for the return to school is getting kids back on a regular sleep schedule. Children often stay up later in the summer or are vacationing and their internal clocks are in flux. Start making bedtime earlier in preparation for the school week. Consider buying children their own alarm clocks so they can begin waking up earlier too.
- Organize: Identify a specific place in the home for backpacks, lunch boxes, school shoes, coats and homework assignments.
- Contact teachers: Let teachers and school administration know if a divorce has been initiated or your child is recently adjusting to living in two different homes. Teachers can notify you of any early problems or changes in behavior if necessary.
- Be prepared and be positive: There may be some bumpy first days as children (and parents) adjust to the school schedule. Realize this is normal and stay positive.
- Camera ready: Don’t forget to take pictures – the cuties grow up quickly!
Michael C. Craven is a well-known divorce attorney in Chicago, CPA and a partner of the law firm, Beermann Pritikin Mirabelli Swerdlove LLP. (Formerly of Beermann, now a Partner at Harrison LLP) located in the Chicago area. He is highly respected among other divorce attorneys, judges and his clients. He also holds a Master of Tax Law Degree (LLM). For more information about his services, contact Michael at mcraven@harrisonheld.com or at Divorce Lawyers Chicago
