Michael J. Peterson, Attorney

Benefits of the Schedule

• Balanced Contact: Spending alternate weekends with each parent ensures consistent contact and involvement in the child's daily life. This fosters strong emotional bonds and allows both parents to remain active in their child's routine.
• Extended Summer Connection: Two uninterrupted weeks with each parent during summer break provide invaluable opportunities for deeper connections and shared experiences. This allows for more immersive and meaningful bonding compared to shorter visits.
• Shared Holiday Traditions: Celebrating holidays together fosters a sense of unity and family tradition. Parents can collaborate to create positive and inclusive holiday experiences, ensuring the child feels loved and supported by both sides of the family.
• Individual Flexibility: Non-custodial periods offer valuable personal time for parents to pursue individual interests and self-care. This allows them to return to their parenting roles feeling refreshed and engaged, ultimately benefiting the entire family.

 

Challenges to Consider

• Logistical Coordination: Coordinating transportation and activities during transitions, especially during summer breaks, can be challenging. Parents need clear communication and efficient planning to ensure smooth transitions and minimal disruption for the child.
• Communication and Collaboration: Maintaining consistent and open communication is crucial for addressing concerns, resolving conflicts, and making adjustments to the schedule. Effective communication fosters trust, prevents misunderstandings, and promotes a collaborative co-parenting environment.
• Child's Emotional Well-being: Children may experience emotional adjustments during transitions between homes. Parents should be sensitive to their needs, offering support and reassurance as they adjust to the new arrangement.
• Holiday Scheduling Conflicts: Coordinating schedules and activities during holidays can be tricky. Compromise and flexibility are essential for navigating these situations and ensuring positive experiences for everyone involved.

 

Strategies for Success

• Detailed Schedule and Agreement: Outline expectations, communication channels, and contingency plans for unforeseen circumstances. This transparency minimizes misunderstandings and provides a framework for navigating challenges.
• Open and Honest Communication: Communicate regularly and openly, focusing on finding solutions collaboratively. This fosters trust and helps resolve conflicts constructively.
• Focus on the Child's Needs: Prioritize their emotional and developmental needs in all decision-making. Involve them in age-appropriate discussions and respect their preferences.
• Maintaining Routines: Establish consistent routines across both households to provide a sense of structure and security for the child. This minimizes adjustments needed during transitions.
• Seeking Professional Support: Consider seeking guidance from a therapist or counselor if needed. They can provide strategies for navigating the emotional complexities of co-parenting and address any challenges the child might face.

Remember:

• Tailor the schedule to your family's unique needs and circumstances.
• Be open to adjustments and compromise as needed.
• Seek professional support if required.
• Focus on creating a positive and supportive environment for your child.

This co-parenting schedule can be a successful option for many families, offering a balance between consistent contact, extended connection, and individual space. By implementing strategies for success and prioritizing open communication, collaboration, and the child's well-being, parents can navigate this arrangement effectively and build a positive and fulfilling co-parenting relationship.

 

Other Custody Schedules

 

Typical 50/50 Custody Schedules

• Alternating Weeks - 50%
• Extended Weekends - 50%
• 2-2-3 Custody - 50%
• 2-2-5-5 Custody - 50%
• 2 Weeks Each - 50%
• Alternating 2 Days - 50%
• 3-4-4-3 Days - 50%

 

Popular Summer Custody Schedules

• Full time entire summer, alternate weekends and one overnight per week during fall, spring and winter - 39%
• Entire summer, alternate weekends, and one evening per week - 30%
• Every other weekend, one overnight per week, one month during the summer, and half the holidays - 29%
• Every other weekend, one evening/week, four summer weeks and half the holidays - 28%
• Every other weekend, one month during summer and half of the holidays - 23%
• First, third and fith extended weekend  - 24
• Every other weekend and half the holidays and summer - 22%
• Every other weekend, four weeks of summer and half the holidays - 21%
• Every other weekend, two weeks during the summer and half the holidays - 19%
• Every other weekend and two weeks during the summer - 18%
• 2 Weeks only during the summer break - 4%

 

Popular Weekend Parenting Arrangements

• Every other extended weekend and one overnight per week - 36%
• Every other extended weekend and one evening per week - 28%
• Every other weekend, half of the school vacation, one evening/week when school in session - 28%
• Every other weekend and one overnight per week - 28%
• Every other weekend  and one evening per week - 21%
• First and third extended weekend of every month - 21%
• Every other extended weekend - 21%
• Two extended weekends per month - 20%
• One overnight and one extended weekend per week - 19%
• First, third and fifth weekend - 15%
• Ever Other Weekend - 14%
• One weekend per month and one evening per week - 14%
• Two weekends per month - 13%
• One extended weekend per month - 10% (Aka 90/10 schedule)
• One weekend per month - 7%

Warning:  This post is neither financial, health, legal, or personal advice nor a substitute for the advice offered by a professional. These are serious matters, and the help of a professional is recommended as it can impact your future.