Michael J. Peterson, Attorney

Schedule Overview: Two Extended Weekends Per Month

Specifics

• Extended weekends: The child spends two extended weekends (Friday evening to Sunday evening) with each parent per month.
• Midweek contacts: Depending on the child's age and needs, optional midweek visits (e.g., Wednesday evenings) can be incorporated into the schedule.
• Holidays and vacations: Specific arrangements for holidays and vacations are typically agreed upon separately, often mirroring the general schedule structure.

 

Visual Representation

Month 1

Day	Parent A	Parent B
1st-4th	School	School
5th (Friday)	Weekend Start	School
6th-8th	Weekend	School
9th (Sunday)	Weekend End	School
10th-17th	School	School
18th (Wednesday)	Midweek Visit (Optional)	School
19th-24th	School	Weekend Start
25th-27th	School	Weekend
28th (Sunday)	School	Weekend End
29th-31st	School	School

 

Month 2

Day	Parent A	Parent B
1st-2nd	School	School
3rd (Friday)	Weekend Start	School
4th-6th	Weekend	School
7th (Sunday)	Weekend End	School
8th-15th	School	School
16th (Wednesday)	Midweek Visit (Optional)	School
17th-22nd	School	Weekend Start
23rd-25th	School	Weekend
26th (Sunday)	School	Weekend End
27th-30th	School	School

 

Comparison to Other Schedules

Schedule	Description	Similarities	Differences
Every Other Weekend	Child spends weekends with one parent, alternating weeks.	Predictable weekend blocks	Shorter weekend visits, more frequent transitions
Weekly Overnight	Child spends one night per week with the other parent.	Regular overnight visits	Less focused weekend time, more transitions
Nested Schedule	Child spends weekdays with one parent and weekends with the other.	Extended weekday time	Less weekend time together, potential for logistical challenges

 

Benefits for the Child

The schedule of Two Extended Weekends Per Month ensures children experience a stable and predictable routine, providing clarity about when they will be with each parent. This consistent structure contributes to a secure and stress-free environment, offering extended periods of focused time with each parent for deeper bonding and meaningful shared experiences. Uninterrupted attention during these extended periods allows children to delve into activities and nurture their interests without constant interruptions, fostering deeper learning and exploration. Although some children may initially feel anxious about longer intervals away from one parent, effective strategies such as open communication, regular contact, and adherence to consistent routines can alleviate concerns and facilitate a smooth adjustment to the schedule.

 

Benefits for the Parents

The Two Extended Weekends schedule provides parents with several advantages, creating a harmonious balance between fulfilling co-parenting responsibilities and maintaining personal well-being. The longer stretches of solo parenting time contribute to increased flexibility, enabling parents to manage work commitments, hobbies, and personal pursuits without conflicting obligations. This heightened flexibility reduces stress and conflict, fostering a positive co-parenting environment. The schedule's reduction in transitions, with fewer handoffs throughout the month, minimizes logistical complexities and disruptions, resulting in a more stable routine for both parents and children. Additionally, the extended periods of solo time offer valuable opportunities for self-care, allowing parents to engage in activities like exercise and relaxation, rejuvenating them emotionally for their co-parenting roles. While acknowledging the challenges of longer gaps between visits, the schedule encourages regular communication through phone calls, video chats, and online platforms to bridge the gap and maintain a strong connection between parents and children during periods of separation. In summary, the Two Extended Weekends schedule presents a unique opportunity for effective co-parenting, promoting flexibility, reduced stress, and enhanced well-being for all involved.

 

Logical Considerations

Successfully implementing the Two Extended Weekends schedule necessitates careful attention to logistical details to ensure a seamless experience for parents and children. Coordinating transportation and schedules involves using shared online calendars or family planner apps, fostering clear communication about transportation arrangements, and exploring flexible solutions such as carpooling or ride-sharing services. Managing extracurricular activities requires open communication between parents, coordination with teachers and coaches, and the establishment of consistent rules and routines across households. Facilitating communication and collaboration involves the use of co-parenting apps, shared online documents, and regular communication through phone calls and video chats. Financial considerations and legal aspects involve reviewing and adjusting child support arrangements, tracking and transparently managing expenses, and seeking legal guidance to address any concerns. Prioritizing communication, flexibility, and the utilization of available resources enables parents to effectively handle the logistical aspects of the Two Extended Weekends schedule, fostering a positive and stable environment for their children.

 

Success Tips

Successfully navigating the Two Extended Weekends schedule requires commitment and effort from both parents to ensure its smooth operation. Key strategies include effective communication and collaboration, involving active listening, open and honest discussions, and maintaining regular check-ins. Managing extended solo parenting periods involves creating a structured routine, planning engaging activities, and prioritizing self-care to effectively handle responsibilities. Ensuring consistency across households requires establishing clear expectations, sharing information regularly, and maintaining open communication with the child. Actively communicating with the child involves creating a safe space for dialogue, listening and validating feelings, and addressing concerns openly. Utilizing tools and resources, such as co-parenting apps, shared online documents, financial apps, and legal resources, enhances organization and communication. By implementing these strategies and utilizing available resources, parents can foster a positive co-parenting relationship and ensure the success of the Two Extended Weekends schedule for their family, emphasizing that communication, flexibility, and commitment are essential for a successful co-parenting journey.

 

Personal Stories and Experiences

1. Sarah from California: Embracing Quality Time Sarah, a mother from California, shares her success with the Two Extended Weekends schedule. She emphasizes the deeper bonds she developed with her daughter during extended weekends. Sarah appreciates the reduced stress and increased flexibility, allowing her to focus on her career and personal pursuits during solo parenting time. Her advice centers on effective communication with her ex-husband and maintaining consistency in their approach to parenting
2. Mike from New York: Juggling Work and Parenting Mike, a father in New York, navigates the Two Extended Weekends schedule successfully while managing a demanding job. He highlights the flexibility the schedule provides, enabling him to dedicate longer periods to work without compromising parenting quality. Mike's story emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations and using communication tools to coordinate schedules with his ex-wife.
3. Alicia from Texas: Finding Personal Balance Alicia, a single mother in Texas, shares her journey of finding balance with the Two Extended Weekends schedule. She discusses the extended solo parenting time, allowing her to focus on self-care and personal growth. Alicia encourages other parents to prioritize their well-being and pursue individual interests during these longer periods, contributing to a healthier co-parenting dynamic.
4. James and Emily from Florida: Co-Parenting as a Team James and Emily, divorced parents in Florida, co-parent their two children using the Two Extended Weekends schedule. They emphasize the importance of teamwork, consistent communication, and sharing responsibilities. The couple's story serves as inspiration for others, showcasing how a united approach to parenting can create a stable and supportive environment for their children.

 

These diverse stories from different parts of the United States illustrate the versatility and success of the Two Extended Weekends schedule. Each narrative provides insights, advice, and encouragement for families considering this co-parenting arrangement, demonstrating that with effective communication and a commitment to the schedule, families can thrive and build positive relationships.

 

Conclusion

The Two Extended Weekends schedule presents a distinctive combination of advantages and challenges, necessitating thoughtful consideration before adoption. Notable benefits include extended periods for quality parent-child time, reduced stress through minimized transitions, and increased flexibility for personal pursuits. However, potential difficulties in managing longer intervals between visits, organizing logistics, and ensuring consistency across households should be acknowledged. The success of this schedule relies on three fundamental pillars: effective communication, flexibility in adapting to unforeseen circumstances, and a shared commitment to making the arrangement work. If you prioritize focused time with your child and value flexibility, carefully assess the benefits and challenges, considering your child's needs, and engage in open discussions with your co-parent to determine its suitability for your family. Always remember that successful co-parenting hinges on communication, flexibility, and commitment.

 

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.