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Visitation Schedules: Parents Explain What Works |
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There are many variations on a workable schedule. Regularity and predictability are key to assuring your children's feelings of security. The degree of closeness of the relationship with the noncustodial parent and physical proximity to the children are also important considerations. |
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As the years pass, it is normal to revise a schedule so that children spend increasingly more time away from the primary home. As these revisions are made, however, parents must be sensitive to any signs that a child is being pushed beyond his or her capabilities. Remember that your relationship does not depend on the actual number of hours or days you spend with your children, but on the degree of your involvement, concern, and openness to your children's emotional and developmental needs. Pushing your children beyond their temperament and capabilities can backfire. |
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Parents across the country have designed time-sharing schedules that range from one week at each parent's home to rotating every other weekend, with the kids living primarily at one parent's home. You know your kids best, so think about what would work for them. Here is just one example of a visitation schedule based on childrens' ages: |
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| Age | Time with Noncustodial Parent | Vacation Time | | Infant to 1 year | 2 hours, 45 days per week; later, 4 hours 1 weekend day, no visit second weekend day; visits in the residential home | No change |
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(table continued on next page) |
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