Common Shared Parenting Schedules

Shared parenting arrangements give both parents meaningful and consistent time with their children after separation. When parents share at least 40 percent of the parenting time, the law considers it a shared parenting situation. In practical terms, this often means the children move between homes on a regular schedule, and each parent takes on day to day responsibilities like school routines, meals, appointments, homework, and activities.

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In mediation, I help parents understand that shared parenting is not about splitting time in an exact mathematical way. It is about designing a schedule that fits your children’s needs and reflects the realities of your two households. Some families choose equal time, while others create slightly different schedules that still meet the 40 percent threshold. What matters most is that the schedule feels predictable, child centered, and workable for both of you.

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Shared parenting can bring many benefits. Children get to maintain strong relationships with both parents, and parents stay closely involved in the daily parts of their children’s lives. It can also create a greater sense of balance, because each parent carries a meaningful share of care and responsibility.

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During mediation, we talk through what your children need at their ages and stages, how transitions between homes will work, and what each parent’s weekly rhythm looks like. We look at school locations, work schedules, support systems, and the children’s activities. With that information, we explore possible schedules and choose one that supports stability and healthy routines.

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My goal is to help you create a shared parenting plan that feels fair, practical, and focused on your children’s long term wellbeing.