By Elle Barr | Our Family Wizard, AAML NJ Bronze Sponsor
A co-parenting schedule can help you raise a family across different homes. Check out this comprehensive guide on the popular 2-2-5-5 custody schedule. Download a free parenting schedule template, learn from expert tips, and see if this rotation will fit your family.
What Is a 2-2-5-5 Custody Schedule
A 2-2-5-5 custody schedule is a shared parenting rotation that splits parenting time 50/50. Parents split time into two-day and five-day blocks. Many experts like this schedule because parents keep the same days every week, making it easier to remember.
You’ll often see the 2-5-5-2 schedule rotation referred to as a “custody schedule” or a “parenting schedule.”
Joint physical custody is a parenting arrangement where both parents have physical custody over their children. The children rotate their time living with each parent often on a set schedule. When deciding on a schedule, co-parents consider various aspects like work schedules, children’s schedules, children’s ages, and distance between housing to select a parenting plan that works for your unique situation. For those who want shared custody, a 50/50 split can be an attractive option.
50/50 custody schedules split parenting time equally. This schedule has grown in popularity, with many co-parenting feeling it is fair and gives kids adequate time with both parents. But a 50/50 custody schedule might not be right for all families. For one, splitting time down the middle introduces complexities that not all co-parents may be equipped to handle. Instead of one house being the dominant residence, parents with 50/50 custody must balance the logistical challenges of frequent exchanges with the emotional burden of long times apart.
Terri Breer, a family law attorney and mediator from California, says co-parents have a lot to think about even when they have agreed to share parenting time equally. “While they may want a schedule that allows for equal parenting time with each parent, co-parents need to consider additional schedules. For example, there might be a better way to break up the weekly parenting schedule, particularly if their work schedules or children’s needs suggest a different arrangement.”
The 2-2-5-5 parenting plan offers many benefits for parents who decide that a shared schedule will work best for their children. This rotation keeps the days of the week consistent between co-parents and minimizes time apart.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2-2-5-5 is a 50/50 parenting rotation that gives each co-parent equal time with kids over a two-week period.
- As with most 50/50 schedules, 2-2-5-5 works best for co-parents who live near one another and don’t have a high-conflict relationship.
- This schedule is best for younger kids, who will go only four full days without seeing a parent.
- The 2-2-5-5 schedule gives both co-parents a long weekend with the kids.
- A shared co-parenting calendar helps co-parents manage the 2-2-5-5 schedule.
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