Personal & FamilyUnited States
Free Parenting Plan Template
A comprehensive co-parenting agreement for separated or divorced parents in the United States. Fill in custody schedules, decision-making terms, and download a professional PDF in minutes.
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PARENTING PLAN
Custody, Visitation And Decision-making Agreement
PARENT 1
Sarah Elizabeth Johnson
742 Maple Avenue, Denver, CO 80203
By: Tel: (303) 555-0142, Email: sarah.johnson@email.com
PARENT 2
David Robert Johnson
1580 Pine Street, Apt 3A, Denver, CO 80220
By: Tel: (303) 555-0287, Email: david.johnson@email.com
PARENTING PLAN
Joint
This Parenting Plan ("Plan") is entered into by and between Sarah Elizabeth Johnson ("Parent 1") and David Robert Johnson ("Parent 2"), collectively referred to as the "Parents," for the benefit of the minor child(ren) identified below. Both Parents agree that the terms of this Plan serve the best interests of the child(ren) and agree to abide by its provisions in good faith.
1.
CHILDREN COVERED BY THIS PLAN
This Parenting Plan applies to the following minor child(ren) of the Parents:
1. Emily Grace Johnson (Date of Birth: March 15, 2018)
2. James Michael Johnson (Date of Birth: September 3, 2020)
Current School/Daycare: Lincoln Elementary School, Denver, CO
Special Needs/Considerations: Emily has a mild peanut allergy - EpiPen required at all times.
Both Parents acknowledge that all decisions and arrangements under this Plan shall be made in the best interests of the child(ren), with particular consideration given to the child(ren)'s physical safety, emotional well-being, developmental needs, and the importance of maintaining a stable and nurturing relationship with both Parents. Each child shall be treated as an individual, and arrangements may be modified as appropriate to the age and developmental stage of each child.
1. Emily Grace Johnson (Date of Birth: March 15, 2018)
2. James Michael Johnson (Date of Birth: September 3, 2020)
Current School/Daycare: Lincoln Elementary School, Denver, CO
Special Needs/Considerations: Emily has a mild peanut allergy - EpiPen required at all times.
Both Parents acknowledge that all decisions and arrangements under this Plan shall be made in the best interests of the child(ren), with particular consideration given to the child(ren)'s physical safety, emotional well-being, developmental needs, and the importance of maintaining a stable and nurturing relationship with both Parents. Each child shall be treated as an individual, and arrangements may be modified as appropriate to the age and developmental stage of each child.
2.
PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose of this Parenting Plan is to establish a clear, comprehensive, and enforceable framework for the care, custody, and upbringing of the minor child(ren). Both Parents recognize that the child(ren) have a fundamental right to a loving, supportive, and ongoing relationship with each Parent and that both Parents have a responsibility to foster this relationship. This Plan is intended to: (a) minimize disruption to the child(ren)'s daily routine and established relationships; (b) provide stability and predictability in the child(ren)'s living arrangements; (c) ensure that both Parents remain actively involved in the child(ren)'s lives; (d) establish a framework for making decisions about the child(ren)'s welfare; and (e) reduce the potential for conflict between the Parents by setting clear expectations and guidelines. Both Parents agree to encourage the child(ren)'s relationship with the other Parent, to speak respectfully of the other Parent in the child(ren)'s presence, and to refrain from using the child(ren) as messengers or placing the child(ren) in the middle of any disputes.
3.
GENERAL PARENTING PRINCIPLES
Both Parents agree to adhere to the following foundational principles in all matters related to the child(ren): (a) Best Interests Standard: All decisions shall be made in the best interests of the child(ren), giving primary consideration to the child(ren)'s health, safety, and welfare. (b) Cooperation: Both Parents shall cooperate in good faith to implement and maintain this Plan, communicate respectfully, and make reasonable accommodations when necessary. (c) Consistency: Both Parents shall maintain consistent rules, expectations, and routines to the greatest extent practicable, particularly regarding bedtimes, homework, screen time, and disciplinary approaches. (d) Non-Disparagement: Neither Parent shall make derogatory, belittling, or negative remarks about the other Parent, the other Parent's family, or the other Parent's household in the presence or hearing of the child(ren). (e) Information Sharing: Both Parents shall promptly share all relevant information concerning the child(ren)'s health, education, welfare, and activities. Each Parent shall ensure that the other Parent receives copies of all school reports, medical records, activity schedules, and other relevant documents. (f) Access to Records: Both Parents shall have equal access to the child(ren)'s medical, dental, educational, and other records, regardless of which Parent has physical custody at any given time.
4.
LEGAL CUSTODY
The Parents shall share Joint Legal Custody of the minor child(ren). Both Parents shall have equal rights and responsibilities to participate in making major decisions affecting the child(ren)'s welfare, including but not limited to decisions regarding education (school selection, tutoring, special education services), healthcare (medical treatment, dental care, mental health services, vaccinations), religious upbringing and training, and extracurricular activities and enrichment programs. Neither Parent shall make a major decision regarding the child(ren) without first consulting the other Parent and making a good-faith effort to reach agreement. In the event of a disagreement on a major decision, the Parents shall follow the dispute resolution procedures outlined in this Plan before taking unilateral action. Routine day-to-day decisions (meals, bedtimes, age-appropriate activities, minor first aid) shall be made by the Parent who has physical custody of the child(ren) at the time, without the need to consult the other Parent.
5.
PHYSICAL CUSTODY
The Parents shall share Joint Physical Custody of the minor child(ren). The child(ren) shall reside with each Parent according to the schedule set forth below. Both Parents acknowledge that joint physical custody requires flexibility, communication, and cooperation, and each Parent agrees to support the child(ren)'s transition between households. Each Parent shall maintain a suitable living environment for the child(ren), including appropriate sleeping arrangements, personal space, clothing, toiletries, and other necessities. The child(ren) shall be permitted to bring personal belongings (including school materials, electronics, comfort items, and clothing) between households freely. Neither Parent shall withhold the child(ren)'s belongings as a form of control or punishment.
6.
REGULAR WEEKLY PARENTING SCHEDULE
The Parents agree to the following regular weekly parenting schedule:
Week 1: Monday-Thursday with Parent 1, Friday-Sunday with Parent 2.
Week 2: Monday-Thursday with Parent 2, Friday-Sunday with Parent 1.
Exchange time: 6:00 PM on transition days at the receiving parent's home.
Unless otherwise specified, all exchanges shall take place at the designated location on the scheduled day. The receiving Parent shall be responsible for picking up the child(ren) at the appointed time. If either Parent is more than fifteen (15) minutes late for a scheduled exchange without prior notification, the other Parent may consider the visit forfeited for that occasion, unless an emergency prevented timely arrival. Both Parents shall have the child(ren) ready for exchange at the appointed time with appropriate clothing, homework, medications, and personal items. Neither Parent shall interrogate the child(ren) about the other Parent's activities or household upon exchange.
Week 1: Monday-Thursday with Parent 1, Friday-Sunday with Parent 2.
Week 2: Monday-Thursday with Parent 2, Friday-Sunday with Parent 1.
Exchange time: 6:00 PM on transition days at the receiving parent's home.
Unless otherwise specified, all exchanges shall take place at the designated location on the scheduled day. The receiving Parent shall be responsible for picking up the child(ren) at the appointed time. If either Parent is more than fifteen (15) minutes late for a scheduled exchange without prior notification, the other Parent may consider the visit forfeited for that occasion, unless an emergency prevented timely arrival. Both Parents shall have the child(ren) ready for exchange at the appointed time with appropriate clothing, homework, medications, and personal items. Neither Parent shall interrogate the child(ren) about the other Parent's activities or household upon exchange.
7.
HOLIDAY AND SPECIAL OCCASION SCHEDULE
The following holiday and special occasion schedule shall take precedence over the regular weekly schedule:
Thanksgiving: Even years with Parent 1, odd years with Parent 2.
Christmas Eve (Dec 24, 3pm-9pm): Even years Parent 1, odd years Parent 2.
Christmas Day (Dec 25, 9am-9pm): Even years Parent 2, odd years Parent 1.
Spring Break: Alternating years, Parent 1 even years.
In addition to the above, the child(ren) shall spend Mother's Day with the mother and Father's Day with the father each year. Each child's birthday shall be shared equally, with one Parent hosting during the daytime hours and the other during the evening, alternating annually. If a holiday falls on a Monday, the weekend preceding the holiday is considered part of the holiday period. Both Parents agree to cooperate in good faith regarding holiday scheduling and to provide at least fourteen (14) days' advance notice of any proposed changes to the holiday schedule. The holiday schedule for the upcoming calendar year shall be confirmed in writing by both Parents no later than November 1 of the preceding year.
Thanksgiving: Even years with Parent 1, odd years with Parent 2.
Christmas Eve (Dec 24, 3pm-9pm): Even years Parent 1, odd years Parent 2.
Christmas Day (Dec 25, 9am-9pm): Even years Parent 2, odd years Parent 1.
Spring Break: Alternating years, Parent 1 even years.
In addition to the above, the child(ren) shall spend Mother's Day with the mother and Father's Day with the father each year. Each child's birthday shall be shared equally, with one Parent hosting during the daytime hours and the other during the evening, alternating annually. If a holiday falls on a Monday, the weekend preceding the holiday is considered part of the holiday period. Both Parents agree to cooperate in good faith regarding holiday scheduling and to provide at least fourteen (14) days' advance notice of any proposed changes to the holiday schedule. The holiday schedule for the upcoming calendar year shall be confirmed in writing by both Parents no later than November 1 of the preceding year.
8.
SUMMER AND VACATION SCHEDULE
The following provisions apply to summer breaks and vacation periods:
Each parent receives two (2) consecutive weeks during summer break. Written notice required by April 1. Summer vacation weeks may not conflict with pre-registered camps or summer programs.
Each Parent shall submit their proposed summer schedule in writing to the other Parent no later than April 1 of each year. If the Parents cannot agree on the summer schedule by May 1, the regular weekly schedule shall continue through the summer. Vacation periods shall not interfere with the other Parent's scheduled holidays. The traveling Parent shall provide the other Parent with a complete itinerary, including destination addresses, flight information, hotel names, and emergency contact numbers at least fourteen (14) days before the trip. The child(ren) shall have reasonable telephone or video contact with the non-traveling Parent during any vacation period of more than three (3) consecutive days.
Each parent receives two (2) consecutive weeks during summer break. Written notice required by April 1. Summer vacation weeks may not conflict with pre-registered camps or summer programs.
Each Parent shall submit their proposed summer schedule in writing to the other Parent no later than April 1 of each year. If the Parents cannot agree on the summer schedule by May 1, the regular weekly schedule shall continue through the summer. Vacation periods shall not interfere with the other Parent's scheduled holidays. The traveling Parent shall provide the other Parent with a complete itinerary, including destination addresses, flight information, hotel names, and emergency contact numbers at least fourteen (14) days before the trip. The child(ren) shall have reasonable telephone or video contact with the non-traveling Parent during any vacation period of more than three (3) consecutive days.
9.
TRANSPORTATION ARRANGEMENTS
The Parents agree to the following transportation arrangements for exchanges:
Receiving parent picks up from the other parent's home. Both parents must be present or a designated adult approved by both parties.
Both Parents shall ensure that all persons transporting the child(ren) have valid driver's licenses, appropriate vehicle insurance, and that the child(ren) are properly secured in age-appropriate car seats or seat belts as required by law. Neither Parent shall consume alcohol or controlled substances within eight (8) hours of transporting the child(ren). The cost of regular transportation for exchanges shall be shared equally unless otherwise agreed in writing. If one Parent relocates beyond the original distance, that Parent shall bear the additional transportation costs unless the court orders otherwise.
Receiving parent picks up from the other parent's home. Both parents must be present or a designated adult approved by both parties.
Both Parents shall ensure that all persons transporting the child(ren) have valid driver's licenses, appropriate vehicle insurance, and that the child(ren) are properly secured in age-appropriate car seats or seat belts as required by law. Neither Parent shall consume alcohol or controlled substances within eight (8) hours of transporting the child(ren). The cost of regular transportation for exchanges shall be shared equally unless otherwise agreed in writing. If one Parent relocates beyond the original distance, that Parent shall bear the additional transportation costs unless the court orders otherwise.
10.
RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL
If either Parent requires childcare for a period exceeding four (4) consecutive hours during their scheduled parenting time, that Parent shall first offer the other Parent the opportunity to care for the child(ren) before engaging a third-party caregiver (including but not limited to babysitters, nannies, family members, or friends). The Parent requiring childcare shall provide the other Parent with at least twenty-four (24) hours' advance notice when practicable, or as much notice as circumstances allow in the case of emergencies. The other Parent shall respond within two (2) hours of receiving notice. If the other Parent does not respond within the specified time or declines the opportunity, the requesting Parent may engage a third-party caregiver of their choosing. This right of first refusal does not apply to regularly scheduled daycare, school programs, or established extracurricular activities. Grandparents and immediate family members who regularly provide childcare are exempt from this provision, provided both Parents have agreed to this arrangement in advance.
11.
COMMUNICATION BETWEEN PARENTS
Both Parents shall communicate with each other regarding the child(ren)'s needs, schedules, and welfare in a respectful, timely, and businesslike manner. All non-emergency communications shall be conducted through OurFamilyWizard app for all non-emergency communications; phone/text for emergencies only. In the event of a medical emergency, accident, or other urgent situation involving the child(ren), the Parent with knowledge of the emergency shall immediately contact the other Parent by the fastest available means, including telephone. Both Parents shall respond to non-emergency communications within twenty-four (24) hours. Communications shall be limited to matters concerning the child(ren) and shall not include personal attacks, accusations, or discussion of matters unrelated to the child(ren)'s welfare. Both Parents shall keep their contact information (address, phone number, email) current and shall notify the other Parent of any changes within forty-eight (48) hours.
12.
COMMUNICATION WITH CHILDREN DURING OTHER PARENT'S TIME
The child(ren) shall have the right to communicate with the non-residential Parent during the other Parent's parenting time according to the following schedule:
Daily video call at 7:00 PM, not to exceed 20 minutes. Additional calls as reasonably requested by either the child or the non-residential parent.
The residential Parent shall ensure that the child(ren) have access to a telephone, video calling device, or other appropriate communication device for scheduled and reasonable unscheduled contact with the other Parent. Calls shall take place in a private setting where the child(ren) feel comfortable speaking freely. Neither Parent shall monitor, record, or listen in on the child(ren)'s conversations with the other Parent. Neither Parent shall restrict, discourage, or prevent the child(ren) from communicating with the other Parent, except in extraordinary circumstances involving safety concerns documented in writing.
Daily video call at 7:00 PM, not to exceed 20 minutes. Additional calls as reasonably requested by either the child or the non-residential parent.
The residential Parent shall ensure that the child(ren) have access to a telephone, video calling device, or other appropriate communication device for scheduled and reasonable unscheduled contact with the other Parent. Calls shall take place in a private setting where the child(ren) feel comfortable speaking freely. Neither Parent shall monitor, record, or listen in on the child(ren)'s conversations with the other Parent. Neither Parent shall restrict, discourage, or prevent the child(ren) from communicating with the other Parent, except in extraordinary circumstances involving safety concerns documented in writing.
13.
DECISION-MAKING AUTHORITY
The following allocation of decision-making authority shall apply to major decisions affecting the child(ren):
Education: Joint Decision by Both Parents
Healthcare: Joint Decision by Both Parents
Religious Upbringing: Joint Decision by Both Parents
Extracurricular Activities: Joint Decision by Both Parents
For jointly decided matters, both Parents shall consult in good faith and attempt to reach a mutually agreeable decision before taking action. If the Parents are unable to agree on a jointly decided matter within fourteen (14) days of the initial discussion, they shall follow the dispute resolution procedures outlined in this Plan. For matters assigned to one Parent, that Parent has final decision-making authority after consulting the other Parent and giving due consideration to the other Parent's input. Emergency medical decisions may be made by whichever Parent is present, regardless of the above allocation, with prompt notification to the other Parent. Both Parents shall ensure that the child(ren)'s teachers, coaches, doctors, therapists, and other service providers are aware of this Plan and have both Parents' contact information.
Education: Joint Decision by Both Parents
Healthcare: Joint Decision by Both Parents
Religious Upbringing: Joint Decision by Both Parents
Extracurricular Activities: Joint Decision by Both Parents
For jointly decided matters, both Parents shall consult in good faith and attempt to reach a mutually agreeable decision before taking action. If the Parents are unable to agree on a jointly decided matter within fourteen (14) days of the initial discussion, they shall follow the dispute resolution procedures outlined in this Plan. For matters assigned to one Parent, that Parent has final decision-making authority after consulting the other Parent and giving due consideration to the other Parent's input. Emergency medical decisions may be made by whichever Parent is present, regardless of the above allocation, with prompt notification to the other Parent. Both Parents shall ensure that the child(ren)'s teachers, coaches, doctors, therapists, and other service providers are aware of this Plan and have both Parents' contact information.
14.
SOCIAL MEDIA AND ONLINE PRESENCE
Neither parent shall post identifiable photos or videos of the children on public social media accounts without the other parent's written consent. Both Parents agree that the child(ren)'s digital privacy is a shared concern. Neither Parent shall create social media accounts in the child(ren)'s name without the other Parent's written consent. Both Parents shall monitor and restrict the child(ren)'s access to social media and online content in an age-appropriate manner consistent with community standards and each child's maturity level. Both Parents shall cooperate to establish consistent rules regarding screen time and online activity across both households.
15.
TRAVEL AND RELOCATION RESTRICTIONS
Neither parent may relocate with the children more than 50 miles from Denver, CO without 60 days written notice and the other parent's written consent or court approval. International travel requires written consent and a copy of the itinerary 30 days in advance. For international travel, the traveling Parent must provide the non-traveling Parent with complete itinerary details, emergency contact information, copies of travel documents (passport, visa), and written consent from the non-traveling Parent at least thirty (30) days in advance. Neither Parent shall apply for or renew a passport for any child without the other Parent's written consent. For proposed relocations, the relocating Parent shall provide written notice to the other Parent at least sixty (60) days before the proposed move, including the proposed new address, the reasons for the move, a proposed revised parenting schedule, and a proposed revised transportation arrangement. If the non-relocating Parent objects, the matter shall be resolved through the dispute resolution process outlined in this Plan or by petition to the court.
16.
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
In the event of any disagreement regarding the interpretation, implementation, or modification of this Parenting Plan, the Parents agree to first attempt to resolve the dispute through direct negotiation in good faith. If direct negotiation is unsuccessful within fourteen (14) days, the Parents shall submit the dispute to a qualified family mediator. The cost of mediation shall be shared equally unless otherwise agreed. If mediation does not resolve the dispute within thirty (30) days (or such longer period as the mediator recommends), either Parent may petition the appropriate court for resolution. Neither Parent shall file a court motion without first completing the mediation requirement, except in cases involving allegations of domestic violence, child abuse, substance abuse, or other immediate safety concerns.
17.
MODIFICATION OF PLAN
Either parent may request modification with 30 days written notice. Both parents must agree in writing or seek mediation before petitioning the court.
This Parenting Plan may be modified by mutual written agreement of both Parents at any time. Any modification must be signed by both Parents and dated to be effective. Significant modifications (changes to custody designation, relocation, or substantial changes to the parenting schedule) should be filed with the court to be enforceable. Either Parent may petition the court for modification of this Plan based on a material change in circumstances affecting the best interests of the child(ren). Temporary modifications for specific events (e.g., family weddings, reunions, vacations) may be agreed upon informally in writing (including email or text message) without amending the entire Plan.
This Parenting Plan may be modified by mutual written agreement of both Parents at any time. Any modification must be signed by both Parents and dated to be effective. Significant modifications (changes to custody designation, relocation, or substantial changes to the parenting schedule) should be filed with the court to be enforceable. Either Parent may petition the court for modification of this Plan based on a material change in circumstances affecting the best interests of the child(ren). Temporary modifications for specific events (e.g., family weddings, reunions, vacations) may be agreed upon informally in writing (including email or text message) without amending the entire Plan.
18.
EMERGENCY PROVISIONS
In the event of a medical emergency, life-threatening situation, or other urgent circumstance involving the child(ren), the Parent who is present or first notified may take all necessary actions to protect the child(ren)'s health and safety without first consulting the other Parent, including authorizing emergency medical treatment, contacting emergency services, or removing the child(ren) from a dangerous situation. The acting Parent shall notify the other Parent as soon as reasonably possible, and in no event later than four (4) hours after the emergency arises. Both Parents shall maintain current emergency contact information for each other and shall designate at least two (2) additional emergency contacts who are authorized to pick up the child(ren) in case neither Parent is available. Both Parents shall ensure that all caregivers, schools, and activity providers have current emergency contact information for both Parents.
19.
BEST INTERESTS OF THE CHILD STANDARD
All decisions, schedules, and modifications under this Plan shall be guided by the best interests of the child standard as codified by the law of the state in which this Plan is filed or enforced, including (for illustration) Cal. Fam. Code § 3011, N.Y. Dom. Rel. Law § 240, and Tex. Fam. Code § 153.002. The Parents acknowledge that no presumption of joint or sole custody shall override an individualized best-interests analysis.
20.
RELOCATION OF THE CHILD
Neither Parent shall relocate the child(ren)’s principal residence beyond the distance permitted by applicable state law without prior written consent of the other Parent or an order of the court. The relocating Parent shall provide written notice in compliance with statutory relocation requirements and relevant case law, including In re Marriage of Burgess, 13 Cal. 4th 25 (1996) and Tropea v. Tropea, 87 N.Y.2d 727 (1996), setting forth the proposed new address, reasons for the move, a proposed revised parenting schedule, and proposed transportation arrangements, at least sixty (60) days before the proposed move or such other period as state law requires.
21.
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL, HAGUE CONVENTION, AND PARENTAL KIDNAPPING
Neither Parent shall remove the child(ren) from the United States without the written consent of the other Parent or an order of the court. Both Parents acknowledge that the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction and its U.S. implementing statute, the International Child Abduction Remedies Act (ICARA), 22 U.S.C. §§ 9001 et seq., govern the prompt return of children wrongfully removed or retained across international borders. Wrongful international removal may also constitute a federal offense under the International Parental Kidnapping Crime Act (IPKCA), 18 U.S.C. § 1204. Both Parents shall cooperate with the U.S. Department of State’s Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program.
22.
CHILD SUPPORT COORDINATION
Child support shall be determined in accordance with the state child-support guidelines mandated by Title IV-D of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. §§ 651 et seq., and 45 C.F.R. § 302.56, and shall be enforceable in accordance with the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA), codified at 42 U.S.C. § 666(f) as a condition of state IV-D funding, and the Full Faith and Credit for Child Support Orders Act, 28 U.S.C. § 1738B.
23.
INDIAN CHILD WELFARE ACT
If any child covered by this Plan is an “Indian child” within the meaning of the Indian Child Welfare Act, 25 U.S.C. §§ 1901 et seq., the substantive and procedural protections of ICWA shall control over any inconsistent provision of this Plan, and the child’s tribe shall be entitled to notice and intervention as provided by 25 U.S.C. § 1911–§ 1912.
24.
SERVICEMEMBERS CIVIL RELIEF ACT — DEPLOYMENT
If either Parent is a member of the U.S. uniformed services, custody and visitation determinations affected by deployment shall be governed by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, 50 U.S.C. § 3938, which restricts permanent custody modifications based solely on a servicemember’s absence due to deployment. Temporary accommodations during deployment shall not prejudice the servicemember’s custodial rights upon return.
25.
GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION
This Parenting Plan shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state in which it is filed or, if not filed, the state in which the child(ren) have their primary (home-state) residence at the time of execution. Jurisdiction over custody is governed by the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), adopted in all 50 states, including Cal. Fam. Code §§ 3400–3465, N.Y. Dom. Rel. Law §§ 75–78, and Tex. Fam. Code Ch. 152, which vests exclusive, continuing jurisdiction in the child’s home state. Both Parents submit to the jurisdiction of the family courts of the applicable state for the purposes of enforcing, modifying, or interpreting this Plan. If any provision of this Plan is held to be invalid, unenforceable, or contrary to applicable law, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. Both Parents acknowledge that they have read this entire Parenting Plan, understand its terms, and agree to be bound by its provisions.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, both Parents have executed this Parenting Plan voluntarily, without coercion, and with full understanding of its terms.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the Effective Date first written above.
PARENT 1
Sarah Elizabeth Johnson
Parent 1
Sarah Elizabeth Johnson
Date: ____________________
PARENT 2
David Robert Johnson
Parent 2
David Robert Johnson
Date: ____________________
NOTARY ACKNOWLEDGMENT
State of ________________________, County of ________________________
On this ______ day of ________________________, 20______, before me personally appeared Sarah Elizabeth Johnson and David Robert Johnson, known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledged that they executed the same for the purposes therein contained.
On this ______ day of ________________________, 20______, before me personally appeared Sarah Elizabeth Johnson and David Robert Johnson, known to me (or satisfactorily proven) to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument, and acknowledged that they executed the same for the purposes therein contained.
Notary Public Signature
My commission expires: ___________________________
What Is a Parenting Plan?
A U.S. parenting plan is a written agreement between two parents who no longer live together that describes how they will share the responsibilities of raising their children. It covers where the American children will live, how time will be divided between both households, who will make major decisions about the children's lives, and how the parents will communicate and resolve disputes.
In the United States, most family courts require a parenting plan as part of any divorce, separation, or custody proceeding involving minor children. Courts strongly prefer that parents work out their own arrangement rather than having a judge impose one, because parents who participate in creating the plan are more likely to follow it. The plan is submitted to the court, reviewed by a judge, and once approved, it becomes part of the custody order.
A good U.S. parenting plan reduces conflict by establishing clear expectations. It answers the everyday questions that cause the most friction between American co-parents: whose house the children go to on Wednesday nights, who picks them up from school, how Thanksgiving is split, and what happens when one parent wants to travel with the children. The more detail the plan provides, the fewer arguments arise later.
What's Covered in This Template
Doxuno's parenting plan template covers all essential custody and co-parenting topics required by US family courts, with flexibility for your family's specific needs.
Parent & Child Information
Physical Custody Schedule
Legal Custody (Decision-Making)
Holiday & School Break Schedule
Summer Vacation
Transportation & Exchanges
Communication Guidelines
Relocation Provisions
Right of First Refusal
Child Support Reference
Dispute Resolution
Signatures & Court Filing
How to Create Your Parenting Plan
Doxuno walks you through each section of the parenting plan. Focus on what works best for your children and your family's schedule.
- 1
Enter parent and child information
Provide each parent's full legal name, address, and contact information. Add each child's full name and date of birth. If a court case number already exists from a pending divorce or custody filing, include it for reference.
- 2
Define the custody arrangement
Specify whether you will share joint physical custody or if one parent will have primary custody with visitation for the other. Describe the regular weekly schedule, including specific days, overnight arrangements, and pick-up and drop-off times and locations.
- 3
Set holiday and vacation schedules
Allocate holidays, school breaks, and vacation time between both parents. Many plans alternate major holidays on an even-odd year basis and split summer vacation. Specify the exact dates and times for each holiday period.
- 4
Assign decision-making responsibilities
Determine whether major decisions about education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and extracurricular activities will be made jointly or by one parent. Describe how disagreements about these decisions will be resolved, such as through mediation.
- 5
Review and download
Review the completed plan in the live preview to confirm all schedules and terms are correct. Download the parenting plan as a professional PDF ready for both parents to sign and submit to the family court.
Legal Considerations for Parenting Plans
While this template covers the essential elements of a parenting plan, custody law varies by state. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind.
This template is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For contested custody situations, domestic violence concerns, or interstate custody disputes, consult a licensed family law attorney in your state.
Reviewed by legal professionals. The content on this page and the template clauses have been reviewed by licensed family law attorneys in the United States to ensure accuracy for standard co-parenting situations.
Best Interest of the Child Standard
Every US state uses some version of the "best interest of the child" standard when evaluating custody arrangements. Judges consider factors such as the child's age, health, emotional ties with each parent, each parent's ability to provide a stable home, and the child's established routine. Your parenting plan should reflect these considerations to increase the likelihood of court approval.
Interstate Custody and the UCCJEA
If the parents live in different states, the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) determines which state has jurisdiction to make custody decisions. Generally, the child's "home state" (where the child has lived for the past six consecutive months) has jurisdiction. If you are in an interstate situation, your parenting plan should specify which state's court will handle future modifications.
Relocation Rules
Most states require a custodial parent who wants to move a significant distance (often 50 to 100 miles or more) to give the other parent written notice, typically 30 to 60 days in advance. Some states require court approval before the move can take place. Your parenting plan should include a relocation clause specifying the notice period, distance threshold, and how the custody schedule will be adjusted if relocation is approved.
Modification of Parenting Plans
Parenting plans can be modified when there is a material change in circumstances. Common reasons include a parent's relocation, a significant change in the child's needs, or a substantial change in a parent's work schedule. Both parents can agree to modifications informally for minor changes, but significant modifications should be filed with the court to be enforceable.
Frequently Asked Questions
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