

166. Back to School Survival Guide for Divorcing/Divorced Parents
Let’s face it—back to school hits different when you’re divorced… and especially when you’re the one stuck writing 40 thank-you notes from a six-year-old who can barely write his name.
In this episode, Andrea and Morgan are tackling two of the most unhinged yet relatable parenting hurdles:
🎁 Kid birthday party etiquette (aka the gift spiral from hell)
📚 Back-to-school survival when you’re divorced or divorcing
From the emotional whiplash of a toddler’s party gift pile to awkwardly dodging your ex at curriculum night, these two don’t hold back. Expect brutal honesty, hysterical hypotheticals (yes, hiring someone to write thank-you notes is discussed), and practical survival tips to help you navigate the school year without screaming “NOT WELL, B*TCH!” at the PTA meeting.
What You’ll Learn (and Laugh About):
- Why Lego gifts are basically a hate crime
- How to communicate with teachers without throwing your ex under the school bus
- What to do when your kids feel caught between two parents on the first day of school
- Why sitting with your ex at a band concert might not be best (even if Celine Dion is involved)
- The right (and wrong) way to set expectations with schools and teachers
- Tips for socializing as a newly single parent (yes, we see you hiding in your car after drop-off)
Our Divorce Crash Course was designed to hold your hand through the process and help you avoid major and expensive mistakes. Learn more here: https://www.hownottosuckatdivorce.com/divorce-crash-course
Our Family Wizard is another fantasitc resource for those who need help navigating the "fun" world of coparenting. Head to this landing page to see how we work closely with them to support our listeners! http://www.ourfamilywizard.com/notsuck
Friends, slide into our dms, we love love love hearing from you. We are always here to listen and help in any way we can. You've got this and we've got you.
Instagram: @hownotosuckatdivorce
Follow Andrea: @theandrearappaport
Follow Morgan: @divorceattorneychicago