Co Parenting Schedule Calendar is the need of an hour specially when there are so many divorces happening these days. As per the latest data of 2024, the U.S. divorce rate remains between 40% to 50% for first marriages which means almost half of the marriages end up in divorce.
Divorce are common these days and Children are the ones who suffer the most because of it. Parents fought a legal battle for the custody of their child and then there are issues on the Co Parenting schedule.
There is no point in having arguments for the child custody schedule, instead sit together and choose a schedule that works best for you and your child. There are many co parenting schedules available and we have covered the most popular ones here. So let’s get started!
What is Co Parenting Schedule?
A Co Parenting Schedule is like a shared calendar for both parents. This schedule is created so there are no conflicts between parents and they can spend a quality time with their kid without any problem.
This schedules includes the exact time each parent will spend with the child or children. It can include weekdays, weekends, holidays, school vacations, and special events, etc.
Mostly these schedules are a part of custody agreement approved by a court.
Popular Co Parenting Schedules
Different type of co parenting schedules exist in today’s time. Parents can choose a schedule that works best for them. Following are some of the most popular co parenting schedules that are successfully working. Go through these schedules and choose the one that works best for your child and you.
1) Alternating Weeks (Week On/Week Off)
This is one of the most popular and convenient schedule. It’s pretty simple and straight forward.
In this schedule, Each parent has the child for a full week, then switches.
This schedule works best with kids which are older i.e. who can handle longer stays. If your kid is just a few years old then consider using another schedule.
2) 2-2-3 Schedule
This schedule is preferred by many parents specially by those who cannot stay away from their kid for many days. This schedule works great for younger kids who benefit from frequent contact.
This is how this schedule works:
For Week 1, Parent A has the child for 2 days, Parent B for the next 2, then Parent A for 3 days.
There is a reverse pattern in the next week i.e.
For Week 1, Parent B has the child for 2 days, Parent A for the next 2, then Parent B for 3 days.
Again the schedule reverses for next week and it keeps on going.
3) Every Other Weekend
This is how this schedule works:
One parent has custody during weekdays and the other gets every other weekend.
Again this is very simple schedule, no scope for confusion. This schedule works best for parents who may have a limited availability.
4) 3-4-4-3 Schedule
This is how this schedule works:
Parent A: 3 days, Parent B: 4 days, then Parent A: 4 days, Parent B: 3 days.
Many parents prefer this schedule because this one is fairly balanced and fair for both parents.
So these are some of the popular co parenting schedules that may adopt as per your need or requirement. Use the comment section to let us know how you like these schedules and if you have a different schedule then do share it in the comment section.
Choose a Schedule that Best for your Child
Most of the divorced parents have arguments with each other to choose a parenting schedule that’s best for them, but it should be the other way around. Choose a schedule that’s best for your child.
There are many things which should be taken into consideration while choose a schedule i.e. age of child, his or her behaviour, etc. Children are the ones who suffer the most when their parents separate.
The separation of parents may leave a horrible impact on kids. As a parent it is your responsibility to make your child feel loved. Choose a parenting schedule that works best for your child.
In my opinion, 2-2-3 Schedule Works Well for Children and here are the reasons:
- Children get to see both parents more frequently in a week, so there is less separation anxiety.
- This schedule could fit the routine of many parents and it’s easy to follow as well
- This schedule is best specially when you have a younger child
- Both Parents get to spend equal time with a child.
For any schedule to work, it does require good communication between parents and a high level of cooperation. No schedule will work if there is no communication or no cooperation.
For divorced parents it could be hard to come to a conclusion or cooperate, I mean there is a reason why you’re divorced. But you have to do it for the well being of your child. Don’t let your fights and issues ruin the mental well being of your child. Make it work for your child.
Final Words
Deciding a co parenting schedule and following it without fail could be a difficult task but do it for the well being of your child. You should always fulfil your responsibilities as a parent even if you’re divorced. There is no point in arguing your custody schedule and creating problems for each other. Instead, talk it out like responsible parents and decide a schedule that works best for the child.
Child wellness and development should be the goal of both parents. Whatever schedule you decide to follow, make sure to create a calendar out of it so there is no confusion or issues.