A parenting plan describes how separated parents will care for their children and make important decisions. A workable plan is more than a calendar: it should fit a child's needs, school and activities, the parents' circumstances, and any safety concerns.
Build a routine the child can follow
Write down regular parenting time, exchanges, transportation, holidays, school breaks, birthdays, and how changes will be requested. A schedule needs enough detail to reduce recurring disputes, but flexibility may be appropriate as a child grows. Consider the child's age, distance between homes, and practical commitments.
Separate day-to-day and major decisions
Explain who makes significant decisions about health, education, religion or culture, and major extracurricular activities, and how information will be shared. Everyday decisions during a parent's time may be different from long-term decision-making responsibility. Use clear language about consultation and a way to address disagreement.
Address communication and safety
Consider how parents and children will communicate between homes, how schools and care providers will receive information, and how emergencies will be handled. The child's physical, emotional, and psychological safety is central. If family violence or a serious safety concern exists, seek individualized advice before proposing a standard shared arrangement.
Plan for change
Decide how to update the plan when a parent moves, work shifts change, or a child needs a different routine. Record the process for reviewing and resolving disagreements. A court order, existing agreement, or the specific legal framework may affect what can be changed and how.
Prepare for legal advice
Bring the child's current routine, school calendar, relevant communications, any order or agreement, and a list of specific decisions in dispute. A lawyer can help assess the proposed terms in light of the child's best interests and the applicable law.
Questions about your own situation? The documents, dates and facts matter. Meysami Law Professional Corp. assists clients in Ottawa with family law matters.
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Official Resources
Justice Canada: parenting plan checklist · Justice Canada: creating a parenting plan
This article is general information as of September 26, 2026, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and circumstances can change. Contacting the firm does not create a lawyer-client relationship.