Custody swap every Wed - kid keeps forgetting backpack

Jan 8·1 min read

So my 8yo has been forgetting his backpack at my place literally every other Wednesday when his mom picks him up. I've tried:

Putting it by the door
Reminding him 5 mins before pickup
Letting him experience the consequence (forgot homework, got a note from teacher)

Mom's getting frustrated with me like I'm not prepping him properly. But he's old enough to remember his own stuff right? Or am I being too harsh here?

6 comments127 views

Comments(6)

SSean L.New DadJan 8

Have you thought about keeping a backup set of essentials at his mom's place? Like a spare lunch box and some basic school supplies? Might save you both some headaches.

BBrianRegularJan 8

At 8 years old he's definitely old enough to remember it himself. Maybe make a checklist with his face or a picture he drew and put it right by the door at your place?

DDerekRegularJan 9

This happens to us every Tuesday. We started putting his backpack in the car the night before so it's already there when he wakes up. Took one time of him forgetting to learn the routine.

CChris R.RegularJan 9

I'd probably just start making him walk back in to grab it even if his mom is waiting in the driveway. He'll remember real quick once he has to face the consequences.

MMike R.RegularJan 10

Set a phone reminder for like 30 minutes before pickup. Ask him to go grab his backpack and put it by the door. He needs to start taking responsibility for this at 8 years old anyway.

MMatt J.RegularJan 10

Every other Wednesday means he's still in a transition phase. Give it a couple months of gentle reminders and it'll stick. His brain is adjusting to two households.