Your divorce can affect different aspects of your child’s life, including their education. They may have trouble concentrating, their grades may plummet and they may have behavioral issues at school. That’s why it’s recommended for divorcing parents to inform their child’s school about their divorce.
When teachers understand what’s going on in your child’s life, they will know the best ways to support them.
Here is what to keep in mind when telling your child’s school about your divorce:
You don’t need to provide all the details about the divorce
Your kid’s school only needs to know that you are going through a divorce. You don’t need to give so many details. Nonetheless, it can help if your child’s teacher knows how the divorce has affected your kid, perhaps they have trouble sleeping or eating, they can’t focus on activities or they are angry. This way, the teacher can determine the right strategies to help your child.
Talk to your child
If your kid is in middle or high school, let them know that you will be informing the school about your divorce. Otherwise, they might get upset if they discover you’ve told their teachers without advising them first. They might prefer you only talk to a particular teacher with whom they have a better relationship. Even if they don’t, it shows respect to include them in the conversation.
You might also ask your children to write a list of others they can turn to for support on matters they don’t want to discuss with you or your spouse.
Divorce is a private matter, but it should not be made a secret, especially if you have a school-age child. Learn more to make decisions that protect the interests of your child.