When it comes to parenting plans, there’s not only one type that is expected to suit every type of family. Because every household is unique, courts are ordering different types of parenting plans to suit their unique and specific needs.
Types of Parenting Plans
Here are some go-to parenting plants that parents usually choose, depending on the needs of the household.
The 5-2-2-5 Plan
This is the most common plan for families with older kids. In this set up, each parent chooses two weekdays each when they will take the child. For example, the mom can choose Mondays and Tuesdays and the dad can choose Wednesdays and Thursdays. The rest of the days are alternated by the parents.
This plan is preferred because of predictability. Using this set up, parents have a schedule and there’s a great balance between work and school responsibilities.
The 2-2-3 Plan
For households with younger kids, the most common plan is the 2-2-3. In this set up, parents alternate time with the kids. It’s the ideal setup when younger children are involved because young kids don’t like spending too long periods away from one parent.
A lot of parents also prefer this plan because they get to see their kids more frequently. However, there can be a downside to this. Because of the constant alternating and rotations, there’s less predictability, so it’s difficult to maintain a consistent schedule.
The Week-On Week-Off Plan
This is the most streamlined and easiest parenting plan to follow. It’s as simple as having one week with one parent and the next week with the other. In this setup, each parent has more time with the kids. This is more suitable for older children.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Parenting Plan
- Where the exchanges are going to take place? Will it be in school? Are the kids going to be picked up from the other parent’s home?
- The age of the children. Younger children will need a shorter rotation while longer periods can work for older children.
- Holidays. Parents must do a fair allocation when it comes to the holidays. It’s typical to alternate major holidays every year.