Michael J. Peterson, Attorney

The Schedule Explained

This arrangement typically involves one parent having the child for two consecutive weekends each month, with the other parent having them for the remaining two weekends. This alternating pattern allows for longer periods of focused time with each parent while maintaining a sense of routine through consistent hand-offs.

 

Benefits for the Child

• Quality Time with Both Parents: The schedule ensures two predictable periods each month for dedicated interaction and meaningful experiences with each parent.
• Stability and Predictability: The consistent rotation provides a sense of security and comfort, reducing anxiety and stress associated with constant transitions.
• Longer Periods for Focused Activities: Extended weekend visits allow uninterrupted time for hobbies, exploration, and in-depth activities without constant interruptions.
• Reduced Conflict and Stress: Fewer handoffs and predictable transitions can contribute to a more positive environment for everyone involved.

 

Benefits for the Parents

• Flexibility and Time for Personal Pursuits: Two consecutive weekends offer significant stretches for personal time, work commitments, and self-care.
• Focused Attention and Deeper Connections: The longer weekend visits allow for uninterrupted quality time with the child, strengthening bonds and fostering deeper emotional connections.
• Reduced Stress and Conflict: The predictable schedule minimizes potential disagreements and conflicts regarding scheduling and logistics.
• Opportunity for Individual Growth and Development: Solo time allows each parent to focus on their own well-being and personal development, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

 

Potential Challenges

• Logistics and Coordination: Coordinating transportation, activities, and communication across longer stretches requires effective collaboration between co-parents.
• Financial Considerations: Adjustments to child support and other financial arrangements may be necessary to ensure fairness and support.
• Holiday Considerations: Determining holiday schedules within the existing framework requires careful planning and compromise.
• Child's Adjustment: Some children may require time to adjust to the longer periods away from one parent.

 

Making the Schedule Work

For successful implementation, consider these tips:

• Open and Honest Communication: Maintain regular and open communication with your co-parent to address concerns, discuss adjustments, and make informed decisions collaboratively.
• Consistency and Routine: Establish consistent routines and expectations across both households to provide children with a sense of stability and predictability.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: Be open to adjusting the schedule as needed to accommodate unexpected events and evolving needs.
• Utilize Tools: Leverage co-parenting apps, shared calendars, and online resources to manage logistics and communication effectively.
• Child-Focused Communication: Encourage open communication with your child and address any concerns or anxieties they may have about the schedule.

 

A Potential Fit?

This schedule may be ideal for families who:

• Value quality time with their children while appreciating flexibility.
• Desire longer periods for solo parenting and self-care.
• Prioritize a structured routine and consistent hand-offs.
• Can effectively coordinate communication and logistics.

 

Carefully consider the benefits and challenges of this schedule, and openly discuss it with your co-parent. Remember, communication, flexibility, and commitment are essential for making any co-parenting arrangement work successfully.

 

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.