Free Parenting Plan Template

A parenting plan is a legal document that outlines how separated or divorced parents will share parenting responsibilities. It helps define:

• Who has legal and physical custody
• When each parent will spend time with the child
• How decisions about education, healthcare, and travel will be made
• Each parent’s financial contributions

Parenting plans are often submitted to the court as part of a separation or divorce and become legally binding once approved.

You can customize your parenting plan to reflect your family’s unique situation. A complete plan should cover:

1. Parent and Child Information

List both parents’ names and contact information. Include each child’s full name, birthdate, and primary residence.

2. Custody Arrangements

Specify legal custody (decision-making rights) and physical custody (where the child lives).

Examples include:

• Sole legal custody
• Joint legal custody
• Primary physical custody with visitation
• Joint physical custody

3. Visitation Schedule

Outline when each parent will have parenting time, including:

• Weekdays, weekends, and holidays
• Summer and school breaks
• Pickup and drop-off details

4. Responsibilities and Decision-Making

Clarify how major decisions will be made, including:

• Medical care and insurance
• School decisions
• Extracurricular activities

You can also include how parents will communicate (e.g., shared calendar, phone, email).

5. Financial Contributions

Define who pays for what, including:

• Child support
• Health insurance and medical expenses
• School tuition and activities
• Who can claim the child on taxes

6. Finalization

Both parents should review and sign the plan. Notarization isn’t required in most states, but it may strengthen enforceability. Submit the plan to the court if required in your state.

Yes. If both parents agree, you can update the plan without going to court. Revise the document, sign it again, and follow local requirements.

If you disagree, you may need to request a court modification. Courts have the power to approve changes that reflect the child’s best interests even if the parties cannot agree.

No. Parenting plans stay in effect until the child turns 18 or until they are changed. However, some states may require periodic updates for specific provisions like medical or educational needs. Check your local rules.

If both parents agree, modifying a plan may be free or require only a small administrative fee. If you need to go to court, costs can range from $100 to $5000+, depending on your location and whether attorneys are involved.