The bell has rung and School is back in session and as we are in the middle of a pandemic, there are a lot of uncertainties as to what this 2020-2021 school year will bring. With some schools going virtual, some creating a hybrid model and others returning to school as normal, this leaves parents scurrying to come up with a plan a, b, and c. These plans must include how you and your ex will co-parent your child’s education during this unusual time.

Shared Parenting Skills

For parents, this may include managing a full work load while assisting children in school work. This requires balance and a whole lot of flexibility among both parents.

If you and your ex split the parenting duties 50-50, both parents should be involved in the planning and should consider dividing the role of the “teacher” by assigning each parent subjects to assist with. By dividing the subjects, this will minimize confusion with different teaching styles and help cut down on the stress for everyone. This may require organizing calls over Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype to help with homework while your child is over at your ex’s house.

Each parent should have complete access to all documents and learning materials for the child. Parents should discuss expectations and a strategy so that they are on the same page when it is their turn to take on the teacher roll. Having consistency at both homes will help set your child up for success this school year

Co-Parenting Flexibility During A Pandemic

The COVID-19 Pandemic only makes things more confusing and is causing constant change in our lives. Not only do you and your ex need a plan for school, you also need a plan for life changes that may occur because of the pandemic. You and your ex should have a strategy for an outbreak at school causing a temporary closure and change to a virtual model. In the event of a school closure, have a line of attack for deciding:

-->  Where will the kids go?
-->  Who will watch them? 
-->  Who will help them with their school work?
-->  How will work loads be handled?
-->  n the event of a required quarantine, who will the kids quarantine with should the school be temporarily shut down?

In the unfortunate event that either of the co-parents should be exposed to the virus and forced into a 14-day quarantine, there should also be an agreed-upon support plan in place.

Need More Help Co-Parenting During COVID-19?

If you and your ex are unable to agree on a pandemic plan that is mutually acceptable, mediation provides a warm and caring environment to work out your differences. A professional mediator puts the interests of the family first and helps parents to find the best ways to enhance parent-child time. If you feel comfortable, older children and teens are welcome to attend as well.

To learn more about how mediation can help with any of the issues of divorce, contact A Fair Way Mediation to receive a free 30-minute phone consultation. Visit www.afairway.com or call 619-702-9174. Best of luck during this 2020-2021 school year!