Back to School: Co-Parenting and Parenting Arrangements for Fall in BC
As the back-to-school season approaches, families across British Columbia begin preparing for the return of early mornings, lunch boxes, and school drop-offs. But for separated or divorced parents, this season brings more than just supply shopping—it’s a time that often puts co-parenting arrangements to the test.
Whether you’re newly separated or already following an established parenting plan, the start of a new school year can surface new challenges. Who’s responsible for pickups and drop-offs? What if there’s a parent-teacher meeting on a day that isn’t “yours”? What happens if you and your co-parent don’t agree on which school your child should attend?
Navigating these questions takes more than good intentions—it takes structure, communication, and sometimes, legal support.
Adjusting your parenting schedule for the school year
Summer often allows for a more relaxed approach to parenting schedules. Vacations, flexible work hours, and camp weeks can make transitions feel easier. But when September arrives, structure returns—and with it, the need to reassess what works and what doesn’t.
In BC, many separated parents share custody arrangements where a child spends close to equal time in each home. During the school year, however, that arrangement might require adjustments to support the child’s academic success and well-being.
Some parents continue with week-on/week-off rotations. Others opt for more nuanced schedules like a 2-2-3 split (two days with one parent, two with the other, then alternating weekends). For families where one parent lives closer to the school or works more predictable hours, weekday-weekend divisions can also work well.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but whatever the schedule, it should prioritize the child’s need for consistency. That includes smooth school-day transitions, stable homework routines, and the ability to participate in after-school activities without disruption.
Even if your existing parenting agreement doesn’t get into the nitty-gritty of school-year logistics, you and your co-parent can still collaborate to clarify expectations. Keeping lines of communication open—and putting agreements in writing when possible—can prevent misunderstandings and reduce tension.
Decision-making about school and education
Back-to-school season also brings forward a different kind of concern: who gets to make decisions about your child’s education?
In British Columbia, the Family Law Act gives guardians the right and responsibility to make significant decisions for their children. Unless a court order or agreement says otherwise, both parents are presumed to share that responsibility equally.
That means choices like which school your child attends, whether they need tutoring or special education support, or even whether to approve a therapy plan tied to learning challenges, usually require agreement from both parents.
When co-parents communicate well, these decisions can be made collaboratively. But when there’s disagreement—or if one parent acts unilaterally—conflict can arise. If that happens, either parent can apply to court or seek mediation. The overriding principle in every case is the best interests of the child.
It’s worth planning ahead for these scenarios, especially during years when your child is transitioning into kindergarten, high school, or a new school district. Early, respectful discussions can go a long way toward reducing stress—for both parents and children.
Handling conflict and communication breakdowns
Even in the most cooperative co-parenting relationships, misunderstandings happen. A forgotten PA day, miscommunication about school supplies, or disagreements about who should attend a parent-teacher night can quickly create tension.
The most effective way to manage these conflicts is to focus on your child’s needs and keep communication respectful. Today, there are a range of parenting apps that help track expenses, share calendars, and streamline conversations. Many families also rely on shared Google Calendars or written parenting agreements that set out expectations clearly and in advance.
If communication begins to break down—or one parent stops following the agreed-upon plan—it may be time to revisit your parenting arrangement. This can often be done with the help of a family lawyer or mediator, before issues escalate into bigger disputes.
When to update your parenting agreement
Parenting plans are living documents. What worked for your child last year may no longer meet their needs this fall.
The start of the school year is a natural moment to review your agreement. Is your child starting a new school? Have extracurriculars become more demanding? Has your work schedule changed? Are transitions between homes affecting your child’s mood, attendance, or academic performance?
If so, it may be time to revise your parenting plan.
Changes can be made by agreement between parents—ideally with the guidance of a lawyer to ensure everything is properly documented. If no agreement can be reached, either parent can apply to court to request a formal variation.
The key is clarity. A well-drafted agreement provides structure and certainty, which ultimately benefits your child.
Seek Legal Assistance
If your parenting arrangements feel out of sync with the demands of the school year—or if communication with your co-parent is becoming more difficult—it may be time to make a change.
At Mills Family Law, we help parents across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland revisit and revise parenting agreements to reflect changing realities. Whether you're dealing with scheduling issues, educational decisions, or recurring conflict, we can guide you toward solutions that prioritize your child’s best interests.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a Vancouver family lawyer and prepare for a smooth, successful school year.
