Media Release
Wednesday 25 January, 2006
Back to school essentials for separating families
Friday 3 February marked the beginning of the new school year for children in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and the Child Support Agency is urging separated parents to make a plan for their children for the new school year.
In the ACT, the CSA has more than 8000 eligible children whose parents are registered with the Child Support Agency.
CSA's Acting General Manager, Trevor Sutton, says the beginning of the school year provides a good opportunity for separated parents to sit down together and make a parenting plan for school drop off and pick up, extra curricula activities, school holidays and special days like birthdays, Mothers' Day and Fathers' Day.
"For some children it will be especially difficult as it will be the first time they have returned to school following a family split."
CSA's free publication Me, my kids and my Ex, offers a parenting plan where separated mums and dads can create a schedule which is appropriate for the age, needs and personality of each of their children.
The Agency has also released a free interactive CD-ROM, Dealing with Separation which allows parents to:
- enter details into a "Parenting from a distance" diary
- use a weekly routine planner
- calculate how they will share information such as their child's school report and other achievements
Suggestions in the CD-ROM include involving grandparents in a school reading program or a non-resident parent tending a sick child.
Mr Sutton reminds parents that school and pre-school fees may be credited as child support and encourages parents to check with CSA.
The free Me, my kids and my Ex booklet and the free interactive CD-ROM Dealing with Separation can be ordered online at www.csa.gov.au or by phoning 131 272.
Editors note: To organise an interview with your local CSA executive phone Lydia Roberts on email: media@csa.gov.au
A high-res. photograph of the cover of the CD-ROM or booklet can be downloaded from www.csa.gov.au/media/gallery.aspx
