Children Returning to School in January: Top Tips for Separated Parents
January marks a fresh start for families—and for children, it means returning to school after the Christmas break. For separated parents, this transition can bring unique challenges. Here are my tips to make it smoother while keeping your child’s best interests at heart.
Why January Can Be Stressful for Children
The post-holiday period often involves adjusting to new routines, managing homework, and coping with emotional changes. For children in shared care arrangements, these challenges can be amplified by moving between two homes. Sometimes, legal intervention is required.
Top Tips for Separated Parents
- Rebuild Consistent Routines
- Children thrive on stability. Align bedtimes, homework schedules, and extracurricular commitments across both households to reduce stress and confusion.
- Plan School Logistics Early
- Confirm pick-up and drop-off times.
- Ensure uniforms, books, and sports kits are available in both homes.
- Use shared calendars or parenting apps to avoid last-minute issues.
- Keep Schools in the Loop
- Notify teachers of any changes in living arrangements or contact details.
- Schools can offer extra support if they understand the child’s circumstances.
- Attempt to Resolve Disputes Quickly
- Disagreements about schooling (such as attendance, activities, or homework) should be addressed promptly.
- If you have a parenting plan or court order, refer to it (or update it).
- Consider mediation (or a form of non-court dispute resolution) for unresolved issues.
- Keep discussions child-focused and respectful.
- Support Emotional Wellbeing
- Watch for signs of anxiety or reluctance to attend school. If necessary, assistance can be sought from school counsellors or family professionals.
Parental Dispute
If disputes escalate, legal advice may be necessary. The following should be noted:
- Always seek legal advice before making significant decisions about schooling. Careful consideration of what is being sought and why is required. Unilateral decisions by one parent should rarely be made.
- Courts prioritise the child’s welfare under the Children Act 1989. The parents are not the priority.
- Non-Court Dispute Resolution can offer an alternative to court proceedings. For example, Arbitration can be a much better forum for specific issues such as schooling.
Summary
January is an opportunity for parents to collaborate and prioritise their child’s stability. Clear communication, planning, and a child-first approach can make the return to school a positive experience. We, at Irwin Mitchell, are specialist family lawyers and mediators and can help guide and assist you should any difficulties arise.
