Parenting plans are formal agreements or court-ordered documents that outline how separated or divorced parents will raise their children. They are designed to provide a clear framework for co-parenting and to ensure the best interests of the child are prioritized.

Common Elements in a Parenting Plan:

1. Custody and Living Arrangements:

   • Physical custody: Where the child will live.

   • Legal custody: Who makes major decisions about the child’s welfare (e.g., education, healthcare, religion).

2. Visitation/Parenting Time Schedule:

   • Weekly or monthly schedules.

   • Holidays, school breaks, and special occasions.

   • Pick-up/drop-off logistics.

3. Decision-Making Responsibilities:

   • How parents will handle decisions on education, health care, extracurriculars, etc.

   • Whether decisions will be made jointly or by one parent.

4. Communication:

   • How parents will communicate with each other (e.g., email, apps, texts).

   • How the child will communicate with the non-residential parent.

5. Financial Responsibilities (optional, unless addressed separately in child support):

   • Who pays for what (e.g., extracurriculars, school supplies, medical expenses).

   • Whether there are any reimbursements required.

6. Dispute Resolution Methods:

   • How disagreements about the plan will be handled (e.g., mediation before going to court).

7. Flexibility and Modifications:

   • Procedures for revising the plan as the child grows or circumstances change.