Creating a parenting-time schedule—also called a custody schedule—is one of the most important parts of any North Carolina child custody case. It determines how much time each parent spends with the child, where the child lives, and how holidays, weekends, and vacations are shared.
But not all parenting-time schedules fit every family. The best custody schedule depends on the child’s age, developmental needs, and relationship with each parent. Courts in North Carolina always focus on what serves the child’s best interest, not just the parents’ convenience.
At Martine Law, we help parents create balanced, age-appropriate schedules that foster stability, emotional health, and strong parent-child relationships—while keeping conflict to a minimum.
How North Carolina Courts Approach Parenting-Time Schedules
When parents can’t agree on a schedule, a judge will decide one based on the child’s age, maturity, school schedule, and emotional needs. The court’s main goal is to:
- Maintain continuity and stability in the child’s life.
- Encourage ongoing contact with both parents.
- Protect the child’s safety and emotional well-being.
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” plan—each schedule is customized for the child’s stage of development.
Parenting-Time for Infants (0–2 Years Old)
Infants need routine, consistency, and a primary attachment figure. At this stage, frequent but shorter visits with the non-primary caregiver are best so the baby can build a secure bond with both parents.
Typical schedule:
- Several short visits per week (2–4 hours each).
- No overnight visits until a regular bond and feeding routine are established.
- Gradual introduction of overnight stays as the child grows and adjusts.
Key considerations:
- Regular communication about feeding, nap times, and health.
- Keeping transitions calm and predictable.
- If breastfeeding, visitation should work around the child’s feeding schedule.
Courts focus on maintaining emotional security and minimizing disruption during this sensitive stage.
Parenting-Time for Toddlers (2–4 Years Old)
Toddlers can handle longer separations but still need routine and consistency. Both parents should have meaningful, predictable time with the child.
Typical schedule:
- Daytime visits 2–3 times per week.
- One or two overnight stays with the non-custodial parent.
- Alternating weekends as the child becomes comfortable.
Tips for success:
- Keep hand-offs smooth with short goodbyes.
- Maintain similar daily routines in both homes.
- Use video calls or photos to reassure the child during longer gaps.
Courts often encourage both parents to stay involved in caregiving, discipline, and play at this age.
Parenting-Time for Preschoolers (4–5 Years Old)
By preschool age, children benefit from predictable weekly patterns. They can adapt to longer stays with each parent and start forming more independent attachments.
Typical schedule:
- Alternating weekends (Friday–Sunday or Monday).
- One midweek overnight or dinner visit.
- Split holidays and school breaks equally.
Developmental needs:
- Stable routines for bedtime and meals.
- Consistent communication between parents about school and health.
- Opportunities for the child to spend time with both parents in daily life (school drop-offs, activities, etc.).
Parenting-Time for Elementary-Age Children (6–12 Years Old)
At this stage, children are in school full-time and thrive on structure. They can comfortably spend longer periods with each parent.
Common schedules include:
- 2-2-3 plan: The child spends two days with one parent, two with the other, and alternates weekends.
- Week-on/week-off: The child alternates homes weekly.
- Modified joint plan: One parent has weekdays, and the other has weekends or extended summer time.
Important factors:
- Keeping school attendance and activities stable.
- Ensuring consistent homework and bedtime routines.
- Prioritizing the child’s friendships and community involvement.
Judges look for cooperation and flexibility from parents to make transitions smooth.
Parenting-Time for Teenagers (13–17 Years Old)
Teenagers crave independence and may want a say in where they live or how their time is divided. North Carolina courts consider the child’s preferences but still base decisions on their best interest.
Typical arrangements:
- Alternating weeks or two-week rotations.
- Flexibility for school, work, sports, and social events.
- Extended time with each parent during summer or breaks.
Parenting tips:
- Allow teens to participate in schedule planning.
- Maintain open communication and respect their growing autonomy.
- Avoid using custody time to control or punish.
Teenagers value stability, trust, and freedom. Parents should focus on staying involved in their teen’s life while respecting their independence.
Special Schedules for Long-Distance Parenting
If parents live far apart—such as in different cities or states—frequent transitions may not be practical. Instead, the court may create a schedule that prioritizes longer, less frequent visits, such as:
- Extended holidays and school breaks.
- Alternating summers or full semesters for older children.
- Virtual visits (video calls) between in-person visits.
The goal is to maintain consistent contact and emotional connection, even when distance makes weekly exchanges impossible.
Holiday and Vacation Schedules
North Carolina courts expect parents to share special occasions fairly. A standard order might include:
- Alternating major holidays each year (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter).
- Dividing school breaks equally.
- Alternating birthdays or allowing shared celebrations.
Parents can also customize plans based on family traditions, religious holidays, or travel schedules.
Adjusting Schedules as Children Grow
Custody schedules aren’t fixed forever. As children mature, their needs and routines change. Parents can agree—or ask the court—to modify custody orders if circumstances significantly change, such as:
- Starting school or changing grades.
- Moving homes or cities.
- Shifts in a parent’s work schedule.
- Evolving emotional or developmental needs.
At Martine Law, we help parents update custody and parenting-time arrangements through negotiation or court modification requests to ensure the plan continues to serve the child’s best interests.
How Martine Law Helps Parents Build Age-Appropriate Custody Plans
Every family is different, and every child deserves a custody plan that fits their stage of life. At Martine Law, our North Carolina family law attorneys help parents:
- Understand how courts evaluate age-based parenting schedules.
- Draft detailed custody and visitation plans that minimize conflict.
- Represent them in custody hearings and mediation.
- Modify existing schedules as children grow or family needs change.
Our goal is to help families maintain stability, structure, and strong parent-child relationships—no matter what stage of life your child is in.
If you need guidance creating or modifying a parenting-time schedule in North Carolina, we’re here to help.
Contact Martine Law today for a confidential consultation with an experienced family law attorney.