What is the most common custody schedule?

Common patterns include 2-2-3, 2-2-5-5, alternating weeks, and alternating weekends. The right fit depends on age, school rhythm, distance, and work schedules.

Can I test a schedule before using it?

Yes. The CoHaven custody schedule builder lets you preview 12 weeks before creating an account.

CoHaven

A custody schedule is the operating plan for where children are, when handoffs happen, and how both homes see the week ahead. The goal is not to make every week perfect. The goal is to make the next week easier to understand.

Start with the rhythm, then add the real-world details

Most families begin with a rotation: 2-2-3, 2-2-5-5, alternating weeks, alternating weekends, or a custom pattern. After that, the useful work is adding handoff times, school logistics, activities, and exceptions that tend to create confusion.

Use shorter rotations when younger children need more frequent contact with both homes.
Use steadier week blocks when school, distance, or work schedules make frequent handoffs harder.
Use a written preview before asking either parent to commit.

Preview before you argue about the pattern

A schedule that sounds fair in a sentence can feel different once it hits real dates. Previewing 8 to 12 weeks helps both homes see weekends, transitions, school nights, and uneven stretches before the plan becomes a recurring problem.