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.

parenting plans, custody schedules, 50-50 parenting

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, it is important to have 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 depends on circumstances such as nursing, sleep patterns, work schedules, etc., to establish a developmentally appropriate custody schedule. Fathers 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. In addition, 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 night-time routine and other activities 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 benefits from this routine.

School Age Children

School age children benefit from routine, structure and the anticipation of a schedule. Added to this routine are extracurricular activities such as who is responsible for pick-ups and drop-offs, who prepares meals and how weekends are shared. Shared custody schedules for this age group generally aim for a 50/50 share.

Adolescents

Adolescent custody schedules demand independence, autonomy and their own free time. These children do not want to be tied down to a custody schedule for their parents' sake. Developmentally, during this time period it is common for boys to prefer spending more time with their fathers while girls prefer to spend more time 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 generalization, and not a rule. Good parenting is mindful of this and offers flexibility to benefit the children who may prefer a different schedule even when the agreed shared custody parenting plas in based on a 50/50 share.