If you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse have a child, you need to develop a custody schedule. A well-established agreement is integral to successfully raising them in two homes. However, with numerous joint custody schedules, it can be challenging to choose one. Understanding which one is in your child’s best interest is crucial.
Below are four factors to consider when creating a custody schedule:
1. Your child’s age
Children of different age groups have varying needs. Younger children benefit from frequent, consistent contact with both parents. While teenagers also need to spend more time with their parents, typically, they have increased independence and a schedule of their own.
Therefore, if you have a toddler or a preschooler, it can help to have a schedule that allows them to be with both parents more often in a week. For example, a 2-2-3 schedule, alternating every two days, or a 2-2-5-5 schedule. A teenager can work with an alternating week or every weekend schedule.
2. Your child’s adaptability
How your child adapts to change matters when choosing a custody schedule. If your child usually adapts to change seamlessly, you may have more options. However, if they struggle with change, you might need to choose a schedule that allows frequent interactions.
3. Your child’s daily schedule
Tailor your parenting plan to your child’s daily schedule to minimize disruptions. Do they go to daycare/ school or have extracurricular activities?
4. Your work schedules
You should plan your custody schedule around your work hours. If one of you frequently travels for work, consider this as well.
Co-parents mostly use customized custody schedules. A schedule that works effectively for another pair may not work for you. It’s vital to consider the above-discussed factors and obtain more information to choose a suitable schedule.