When couples get divorced and set up their initial custody arrangement, it typically focuses on their daily schedules that apply for most of the year. For instance, the schedule may address when exchanges should be made and where the child should live to accommodate school and work obligations.
However, it is also important to consider non-standard schedules—days or even weeks that fall outside the norm. These are common sources of conflict for custodial parents, so addressing them in advance can help things go smoothly.
School breaks
For example, children typically get two to three weeks off for the Christmas holidays. They may also have time off for specific holidays, along with three months off during the summer. The custody schedule should outline arrangements for these breaks so that parents understand who has custody and what their obligations will be during these times. The schedule may need to address where holidays will be spent, what obligations parents have for road trips or vacations over the summer, and much more.
Special events
Additionally, the custody schedule should address special events in the child’s life. Christmas is one example that fits into both categories, but parents should also consider events like birthdays or high school graduations. They need to determine whether the custody schedule will be different for these occasions—such as both parents attending a joint birthday party or splitting the Christmas holiday so each parent gets time with the child on that specific day.
Planning in advance can help things go well for both children and parents. It’s important for all involved to understand what legal steps to take when setting up a complex custody schedule.
