Michael J. Peterson, Attorney

The Schedule Explained

This schedule involves one parent having the child for one full weekend (Friday evening to Sunday evening) each month. This extended period allows for uninterrupted quality time and fosters deeper bonds. Additionally, the schedule allows for flexibility in the rest of the month, offering individual time for each parent.

 

Benefits for the Child

• Stability and Routine: The consistent monthly schedule provides a sense of security and predictability, reducing anxiety and stress associated with frequent transitions.
• Longer Periods of Quality Time: Extended weekend visits offer focused time for shared activities, hobbies, and exploration, facilitating deeper connections with each parent.
• Reduced Transitions: Fewer handoffs between parents minimize disruptions and allow for better adaptation to each environment.
• Exposure to Different Parenting Styles: The child experiences the individual parenting styles of both parents, fostering a well-rounded understanding of family dynamics.

 

Benefits for the Parents

• Flexibility and Time for Personal Pursuits: The majority of the month allows 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 extended periods 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

Here are some tips for successful implementation:

• 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 and Resources: 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 anxieties or concerns 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.