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What is the “best” parenting time schedule?

On Behalf of | Feb 3, 2025 | Child Custody

When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important decisions that they have to make is determining a parenting time schedule that works for both them and their children. While every family’s circumstances are unique, the “best” parenting time schedule is unique to each family. A family’s “best” schedule is generally one that prioritizes a child’s well-being, promotes stability and fosters a strong relationship with both parents.

It cannot be emphasized enough that there is no one-size-fits-all parenting plan. This is one of the primary reasons that co-parents are empowered to work with their legal representatives to create bespoke arrangements. As such, parents, courts and family law professionals consider several factors when determining a schedule for any particular family. These factors include:

  • A child’s age and developmental needs: Younger children may need shorter, more frequent stretches of parenting time, while older children can handle longer stays with each parent
  • Parental work schedules and availability: A schedule should accommodate each parent’s ability to provide care while considering job obligations
  • The child’s school and extracurricular activities: Working to ensure consistency in education and social activities is essential for a child’s stability
  • The distance between parents’ homes: If parents live far apart, extended parenting time stretches may be more practical than frequent transitions
  • The child’s preference: In some cases, older children may have input on which schedule works best for them

If you are trying to figure out a schedule for your family, know that there is no “best” schedule beyond whichever one works best for your unique family’s needs. 

Common options

As you’re contemplating your situation, know that some of the most commonly used parenting plans include:

  • 50/50 Schedules: These provide equal (or relatively equal) time with both parents, such as alternating weeks or a 2-2-3 schedule, where the child spends two days with one parent, two days with the other, then three days with the first parent, alternating weekly.
  • Every Other Weekend: A common arrangement where one parent has primary placement, and the other has parenting time every other weekend, possibly with a midweek period of time as well.
  • Extended Summer or Holiday Breaks: This works well when one parent lives farther away and can accommodate longer periods of parenting time during school breaks.

If you need help figuring out a workable schedule, know that that’s okay. Seeking legal guidance is always an option.