Back-to-school season is stressful for all parents, but it’s a little more complicated when you’re not married: Who’s doing the annual trek to Target to load up on school supplies — and more importantly, who’s paying? Are both of you listed on important school forms?
Here are four back-to-school tips for divorced parents:
Split the cost of back-to-school supplies.
Between backpacks, calculators, school clothes and that extra box of crayons, your kids’ back-to-school supplies can end up costing a lot of money. To lessen the burden, divvy up buying supplies.
Create a shared on-line calendar to keep everyone in the loop.
A shared on-line calendar is a great way to make sure that no one misses the kids’ important school dates and events.
Drop the kids off together on the first day of school.
The first day of school can be an overwhelming experience for even the most confident child. If possible, try to free up your schedules so both of you can drop the kids off and show your support.
Attend parent-teacher conferences together.
Heading to parent-teacher conferences as a team sends a positive message to your children and their teachers. Attending parent-teacher conferences shows the children and school that they are supported.
