Michael J. Peterson, Attorney

 

Example and Visual Representation of One Overnight and One Extended Weekend Schedule

Week 1:

Day	Parent A	Parent B
Monday	Overnight	N/A
Tuesday	Drop off	School
Wednesday	School	School
Thursday	School	School
Friday	Pick up	Overnight
Saturday	Extended Weekend	Extended Weekend
Sunday	Extended Weekend	Extended Weekend

 

Week 2:

Day	Parent A	Parent B
Monday	N/A	Overnight
Tuesday	School	Drop off
Wednesday	School	School
Thursday	School	School
Friday	Overnight	Pick up
Saturday	Extended Weekend	Extended Weekend
Sunday	Extended Weekend	Extended Weekend

 

How it works

• Overnight: Child spends the night with the designated parent.
• Extended Weekend: Child spends the entire weekend (Friday night to Sunday night) with the designated parent.
• School: Child attends school.
• Pick up/Drop off: Parent picks up/drops off child at school or another designated location.

 

Benefits for Children

The primary focus of any custody arrangement is the well-being of the children involved. The "One Overnight and One Extended Weekend per Week" schedule offers several advantages in this regard.

 

1. Consistency and Stability: Providing a consistent routine can bring stability to a child's life. Knowing when they will spend time with each parent fosters a sense of security and predictability.
2. Quality Time: The schedule allows for extended periods of quality time with each parent. This uninterrupted bonding time facilitates a deeper connection and meaningful shared experiences.
3. Reduced Transitions: Fewer transitions between households each week can minimize disruptions in a child's routine, leading to reduced stress and anxiety.

 

Benefits for Parents

While ensuring the child's welfare is paramount, co-parenting schedules should also consider the well-being of the parents. The "One Overnight and One Extended Weekend per Week" schedule offers notable benefits for parents.

 

1. Flexibility: Parents can enjoy increased flexibility in their schedules, allowing for personal pursuits, work commitments, and self-care during non-custodial periods.
2. Predictability: With a clear structure, parents can plan their weeks more efficiently, reducing uncertainty and potential conflicts.
3. Shared Responsibilities: Co-parents can share responsibilities more evenly, contributing to a balanced co-parenting dynamic.

 

Practical Tips for Implementation

Implementing any custody schedule requires thoughtful planning and effective communication. Here are some practical tips for success with the "One Overnight and One Extended Weekend per Week" arrangement:

 

1. Open Communication: Maintain open and honest communication with your co-parent. Discuss expectations, share updates, and address concerns promptly.
2. Consistent Routines: Establish consistent routines across households to create a stable environment for the child. This includes bedtime routines, meal schedules, and homework time.
3. Flexibility and Adaptability: Be open to adjustments when necessary. Life can be unpredictable, and flexibility is key to managing unexpected changes in the schedule.
4. Utilize Technology: Leverage co-parenting apps, shared calendars, and messaging platforms to streamline communication and stay organized.
5. Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins with your co-parent to discuss any challenges, adjustments, or changes in the child's life.

 

Conclusion 

The "One Overnight and One Extended Weekend per Week" custody schedule presents a balanced approach that prioritizes quality time for children while considering the needs and flexibility of parents. By fostering open communication, consistency, and flexibility, co-parents can navigate this schedule successfully, creating a positive and stable environment for their children to thrive.

 

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.