A parenting plan is an essential tool for separated or divorced parents who share custody. It helps manage expectations and ensures smooth communication. It’s important to plan for the unplanned, including a process for requesting custody swaps. Limit the number of swaps to prevent disruption—whether monthly, quarterly, or annually—while remaining realistic about flexibility. Set a respectful lead time for non-emergency requests to ensure both parents can plan accordingly.
Balancing time is another factor to consider. Decide if you want to balance custody time after a swap, meaning that if one parent takes extra time, the other gets makeup time. Alternatively, you may prefer more flexibility without an obligation to equalize missed time.
Always document custody time, as it plays a significant role in determining child support. Accurate records help ensure fair financial arrangements and keep both parents accountable. Since custody schedules can be complicated, especially with last-minute changes, refrain from relying on texts or emails, which can get lost or misinterpreted.
Instead, use technology to stay organized. Shared parenting apps allow for seamless communication, document time spent with children, track requests, and provide shared calendars. This can make co-parenting more manageable, ensuring everything is recorded and easily accessible.
source: https://www.dcomply.com/simple-advice-smooth-parenting-time-swaps-for-divorced-parents/
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