CHILD CUSTODY SCHEDULES

Child custody schedules follow a certain format. In general, schedules which are consistent, predictable, and offer regular access to both parents are generally best. Second, custody schedules which are developmentally appropriate are also the standard.

Now for the exceptions. Every family is unique, so what is "normal" or "appropriate" or "best" child custody schedule for one family may not be a close match with another. Thus, the reason for having custody evaluations to assist with the decision making on the best interest of the child for custody and visitation.

Infants & Toddlers

This age group starting with infants just about always gets primary physical custody with the mother. However, this does not mean the child cannot tolerate overnight visits with the father. Much would depend on circumstances such as nursing, sleep patterns, work schedules, etc., to establish a developmentally appropriate custody schedule. Father's who show a great deal of child-rearing knowledge and practice can be just as effective as mothers in their parental fitness, thus giving them more time in the child custody schedule makes sense.

Toddlers are dependent upon routine for the promotion of healthy development. It has been asserted in the research, that overnights and separation from either parent for a block of 2 to 4 days is not harmful when used in custody schedules for toddlers. On the other hand, it offers the the opportunity for both parents to be involved in special moments with the child such as when they wake up, bathing time, the nighttime routine, and other activites in those unique overnight situations.

However, this depends heavily upon the child's temperament, health, and ability to adjust to different environments. Not every child could benefit from this routine.

School Age Children

School age children benefit from routine, structure, and the anticipation of a schedule. Adding to this routine are extracurricular activites, who does the pick-ups and drop-offs, who prepares meals, and how weekends are shared. Shared custody schedules for this age group generally attempt to balance a 50-50 split.

Adolescents

Adolescents'child custody schedules demand independence, autonomy, and their own free time. They don't want to be tied down to a custody schedule for their parents' sake. Developmentally, during this time period boys like to spend more time with thier father and girls with their mothers. Generally speaking this is referred to as same-sex identification, but like all developmental growth, it occurs uniquely in each child and is a generalism and not a rule. Good parenting is mindful of this and offers flexibility, even when there is a shared custody parenting plan in place that may be 50-50, but the children prefer otherwise.