Back to School: do’s and don’ts for separated parents

The summer holidays are over, and the children are either looking forward to new pencil cases and seeing their friends, or reluctant to return to uniform and early mornings, but what about the parents in a separated family?

Subject to domestic or substance abuse concerns, and the terms of any Court Orders, parents are likely to hold Parental Responsibility in equal terms and should collaborate and put on a united front for their children to avoid unnecessary arguments.

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DO – agree the rules about homework and playtime for consistency across both homes

DON’T – disregard the arrangements for which days the children are with you and try to collect them from school when it is not ‘your day’ unless there is a safeguarding concern or emergency

DO – ensure the school have both sets of contact details so that newsletters/reports/parents’ evening invitations are not missed by the other

DON’T – argue at the school gates or handover location

DO – liaise calmly, and in advance, about the payment of school photos and trips

DON’T – try to block the other parent from attending Sports Day or the school play

DO – try to be understanding if a bookbag or PE kit is accidentally left behind at the other parent’s!

If disagreements do arise, consider family mediation to see whether a neutral professional can help you to reach a compromise. If there are significant issues, such as a disputed change of school, and it is not possible to compromise, legal advice may be needed to consider a Court Order, but this should be a last resort.

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This article aims to supply general information, but it is not intended to constitute advice. Every effort is made to ensure that the law referred to is correct at the date of publication and to avoid any statement which may mislead. However, no duty of care is assumed to any person and no liability is accepted for any omission or inaccuracy. Always seek advice specific to your own circumstances.  Fraser Dawbarns LLP are always happy to provide such advice.