Back-to-School Co-Parenting: Preparing for the Academic Year

As summer winds down and the school year approaches, families across Texas begin to prepare for new routines, supplies, and schedules. For divorced or separated parents, this season can also bring unique challenges related to child custody, communication, and school-related decisions.

 

Proactively addressing these issues can reduce stress and ensure your child transitions smoothly into the academic year. Whether you’ve recently finalized a custody agreement or are years into a co-parenting arrangement, here are essential tips to help co-parents work together during the back-to-school season.

1. Review and Align on the Parenting Plan

Before the first day of school, it’s crucial to revisit your parenting plan or custody agreement. Confirm that school-year schedules, transportation arrangements, and after-school care responsibilities are clearly defined.

Key considerations:

• Who will drop off/pick up the child from school?

• How are responsibilities for extracurriculars shared?

• Are both parents authorized to access school records and attend events?

If your current plan doesn’t account for new school needs, consider discussing modifications or consulting a family law attorney to make legal adjustments.

2. Establish a Consistent Routine

Children thrive on routine—especially during the school year. Even in two-household families, maintaining consistency across both homes helps reduce anxiety and boost academic success.

Suggestions for consistency:

• Create a shared homework and bedtime routine.

• Use the same rules for screen time and chores across both households.

• Share calendars to track school events, holidays, and exams.

Shared parenting apps like OurFamilyWizard, Cozi, or TalkingParents can help streamline this communication and ensure both parents stay informed.

3. Coordinate School Communications

Make sure both parents are in the loop regarding academic performance, behavioral notes, and school activities. If possible, provide the school with contact information for both parents and request that each receive communications directly.

Pro Tip: Attend parent-teacher conferences together or alternate turns to stay equally involved.

In Texas, unless a court order states otherwise, both parents typically have the right to access school records and participate in educational decisions. If this has been a point of conflict, clarify these rights within your legal orders or revisit them with your attorney.

4. Support Open Dialogue with Your Child

Co-parenting is most successful when children don’t feel caught in the middle. Encourage your child to express how they're feeling about the new school year and reassure them that both parents are there to support their success.

Avoid these pitfalls:

• Don’t use your child as a messenger between households.

• Refrain from criticizing the other parent’s decisions in front of your child.

• Be mindful of their stress level—new teachers, friends, and academic pressure can be overwhelming.

5. Plan Ahead for Holidays and Emergencies

Back-to-school also means looking ahead to holiday breaks, teacher in-service days, and potential school closures. Discuss how these will be handled—especially if they fall outside of your standard parenting schedule.

Additionally, clarify protocols for when a child is sick, needs to be picked up early, or is injured at school. Having an emergency plan in place can prevent confusion during high-stress situations.

Final Thoughts: Put Your Child First

Co-parenting during the school year isn’t always easy, but with open communication, clear expectations, and a child-first mindset, it is absolutely possible to build a cooperative and peaceful environment.

If you need help modifying your current parenting plan or resolving custody concerns ahead of the school year, The Clanton Law Firm is here to help Texas families navigate family law with confidence and compassion.