How do we decide on a parenting schedule?
Creating a Parenting Schedule After Divorce: What’s Typical and What Works Best for Your Family
When you divorce as a parent, your relationship with your child doesn’t end—it just transforms. One of the most important (and sometimes overwhelming) steps is deciding how you’ll share time and responsibilities. Whether you’re just starting the conversation or revisiting an arrangement that isn’t working well, understanding common parenting schedules can help you make informed, child-centered decisions.
Below, we’ll walk through some of the most typical parenting time arrangements, along with key considerations to help you choose what’s best for your family.
Why Parenting Schedules Matter
A clear, thoughtful parenting schedule:
Reduces confusion and conflict
Gives your child a sense of stability
Helps both parents stay involved and connected
Sets expectations so everyone can plan
There is no one-size-fits-all schedule—what works depends on your child’s age, school routine, your work schedules, travel distance, and your ability to communicate effectively as co-parents.
Common Parenting Schedules
1. Alternating Weeks (50/50 Time)
Example: The child spends one week with Parent A, then one week with Parent B.
Pros:
Long stretches of uninterrupted time with each parent
Predictable routine
Fewer exchanges during the week
Cons:
Long separation may be hard for younger children
Parents need strong communication about school, activities, and transitions
2. 2-2-3 Schedule (50/50 Time)
Example:
Monday & Tuesday with Parent A
Wednesday & Thursday with Parent B
Friday through Sunday with Parent A
Then the schedule reverses
Pros:
Frequent contact with both parents
Good for younger kids who need regular time with each parent
Cons:
More transitions
Requires coordination of logistics
3. 3-4-4-3 Schedule (50/50 Time)
Example:
Week 1: Parent A has 3 days, Parent B has 4 days
Week 2: Parent A has 4 days, Parent B has 3 days
Repeat
Pros:
Predictable rotation
Balanced time
Cons:
Still involves frequent transitions
4. Every Other Weekend (Approx. 70/30 or 80/20 Time)
Example:
Child lives primarily with Parent A
Every other weekend (Friday to Sunday or Monday morning) with Parent B
Optional midweek dinner or overnight visit
Pros:
Simpler schedule
Good when parents live farther apart or have different work availability
Cons:
Less frequent contact with the non-custodial parent
Can feel more like a “visitor” relationship over time
5. Extended Summer or Holiday Time
Many schedules supplement less frequent visitation during the school year with longer uninterrupted time during school breaks. For example:
2–4 weeks in the summer
Alternating major holidays
Splitting winter and spring breaks
This approach helps maintain strong bonds even if day-to-day parenting is unequal.
How to Choose the Right Parenting Schedule
Here are a few things to consider as you decide:
✅ Your Child’s Age and Needs
Younger kids often benefit from frequent, shorter visits.
Teens may prefer fewer transitions and more consistency.
✅ School and Activities
Where does your child attend school?
How will you handle transportation?
✅ Communication and Conflict Level
Can you easily share information and adapt as needed?
If not, simpler schedules with fewer exchanges can help.
✅ Work and Travel Schedules
Be realistic about availability so commitments are sustainable.
✅ Your Child’s Preferences
Depending on age and maturity, including your child in the conversation can help them feel heard.
Final Thoughts
Parenting schedules aren’t set in stone—what you create now can be adjusted as your child grows and your family’s needs change. Mediation and collaborative approaches can help you find solutions that feel fair and practical without the stress of a courtroom battle.
Remember: the goal is not just to split time, but to build a routine where your child can thrive with both parents’ love and support.
If you’d like help exploring options or working through disagreements about parenting time, consider scheduling a consultation. A neutral mediator can guide you through your choices and help you craft a plan that works for everyone.