Effective Parenting Schedule for Young Children: Tips, Templates, and Legal Guidance
Separated parents often face the delicate challenge of designing a parenting schedule for young children that prioritizes their child’s best interests. This article explains how Canadian law, expert guidelines, and child development research guide parents in making these important decisions, especially for children under age 5.
Understanding the Legal Framework
Under the Children’s Law Reform Act, RSO 1990, c C. 12, children should spend “as much time with each parent as is consistent with the best interests of the child.” Importantly, as confirmed by the Supreme Court of Canada in Barendregt v. Grebliunas, 2022 SCC 22, this does not automatically mean equal time with each parent. Parents must show why their proposed parenting schedule for young children is in the child’s best interests, especially when turning to the courts.
Expert Guidance: The AFCC-O Parenting Plan Guide
Courts and family law professionals increasingly refer to the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts – Ontario (AFCC-O) parenting plan guide published in December 2021. This guide helps parents build age-appropriate schedules based on child development research.
Parenting Plan Templates by Age
| Age Category | Recommended Approach |
|---|---|
| Infants (birth-9 months) | Primary care with breastfeeding mother; limited but regular contact with the other parent. |
| Babies (9-18 months) | Shared parenting possible if both parents had consistent involvement; child should see each parent every 2-3 days. |
| Toddlers (18-36 months) | For toddlers with easy temperament: similar to babies; for more difficult temperament: stay primarily with one parent while gradually increasing time with the other. |
| Pre-schoolers (3-5 years) | 2-2-3 schedule recommended when both parents are capable and employed outside the home. |
Factors to Consider in a Parenting Schedule for Young Children
When choosing a parenting schedule for young children, consider:
- Child’s temperament and developmental needs
- Parental involvement before separation
- Parents’ ability to cooperate and communicate
- Work schedules and flexibility
- Proximity of parents’ homes
Tips to Build a Balanced Parenting Plan
- Keep routines consistent to help young children feel secure
- Ensure frequent contact with both parents if appropriate
- Adjust schedules as the child grows and needs change
- Communicate openly about what works and what doesn’t
- Use templates or professional help if disagreements arise
FAQs About Parenting Schedule for Young Children
1. Does the law require a 50/50 parenting schedule?
No, Canadian law requires a schedule that is in the child’s best interests, which may or may not be equal time.
2. Can infants have overnights with both parents?
Sometimes, but usually only if both parents had consistent caregiving roles before separation.
3. What is a 2-2-3 parenting schedule?
A child spends two days with one parent, two days with the other, and then three days with the first parent, rotating weekly.
4. How often should toddlers see each parent?
Every 2-3 days if temperament allows, but it depends on each child’s needs and situation.
5. Can parenting plans change over time?
Yes, they should be reviewed and updated as the child grows and circumstances change.
Conclusion
Designing the right parenting schedule for young children requires balancing legal requirements, expert guidelines, and the child’s developmental needs. By following the AFCC-O templates and considering the child’s best interests, parents can create a plan that helps their children thrive after separation.
