Classes have started back up again in most schools throughout the Philadelphia area. The start of a new school year is always exciting, but when you are divorced, you are likely to feel some degree of stress. You may wonder, for example, if the current custody schedule will work, or you may not trust that your ex-spouse will effectively oversee your children’s homework.
Whatever your specific causes of anxiety, there are two main ways to decrease your stress levels: keep yourself informed about your custody plan and communicate regularly with your ex-spouse and your children’s teachers and other adult figures.
Usually, any important decisions relating to a child’s schooling will be outlined in the custody agreement that the parents signed. If there is no agreement, they will usually be explained in a custody order signed by a judge. Most parents will have shared legal custody, meaning that each parent has a right to decide important schooling choices such as whether to send a child to private school. Many times, a custody agreement or order will also include specifics about after-school care programs or other scheduling issues. It is important to review these points in the beginning of the school year to make sure you are as informed as possible about the current plan.
You also want to communicate regularly with your ex-spouse and your children’s teachers. If you receive important information from your children’s school, take the initiative to share it with the other parent. Even if you do not speak to your ex about other things, you should try as much as possible to keep them up-to-date about your children’s education.
Also do not hesitate to inform your children’s teachers about your custody schedule. If teachers know about your situation, they are more likely to make efforts to reach out to both parents. The same thing goes with coaches, nannies, and the parents of your children’s friends.
If you have any questions about your custody rights or your divorce, please do not hesitate to contact the attorneys at Petrelli Previtera, LLC. We are here to help!