This is the next post in my series on how Las Vegas fathers should proceed when their child is failing in school. My last article provided an overview of topics which this series will be addressing and it also stressed the need to speak with an attorney if you find yourself in such a situation. It is important to realize that no two situations are alike and whether or not the Court will become involved in the matter will depend on the facts of the case. By contacting a lawyer you can determine whether it is appropriate to go to Court. In this post I will discuss steps which a dad should take in order to effectively co-parent a child who is struggling academically. Contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
It is always best if parents can work out issues between themselves rather than involving the Court. This is especially true in matters which involve a child’s education. It is important to realize that the court does not know you, your ex, or your child. This means that the Judge is not familiar with your family’s dynamics, the child’s individual learning style, or any “quirks” the child may have when it comes to handling their schoolwork. If the Court has to become involved, and issue an order as to how the child’s difficulties are to be handled, then it is possible that the result will be a situation which is not convenient for you, your ex, or the child. By working with your ex to meet the child’s needs then you can avoid going to court altogether.
The first step in co-parenting an academically struggling child is to ensure that you and the mother are communicating and sharing information. This means that each should be made aware of any parent teacher conferences, that copies of report cards and other information are exchanged, and that you openly discuss what can be done to help the child. It is important that these conversations take place without unnecessary hostility and that you and the mother be respectful of one another. It goes without saying that a mutual plan of action cannot be executed if the parents are not communicating and, instead, are bickering back and forth.
Another important step is that you and the mother be consistent as to requirements placed on the child. If it is agreed upon that the child should complete their homework as soon as they get home from school then this should be the policy, and it should be enforced regardless of whose house the child is at. Other rules that should be consistent across households are those related to bed times, curfews, the extent to which the child can watch television, etc. By maintaining this consistency you and your ex can help to set the child up for success.
If you have questions then contact my office today to speak with a Las Vegas fathers’ rights lawyer. I have handled many cases in which a child is struggling academically and I am ready to assist you.