Common custody schedules compared: 2-2-3, 2-2-5-5, alternating weeks and more
Updated October 2, 2026 · General information, not legal advice
The most common equal-time schedules are alternating weeks (7-7), 2-2-3, 2-2-5-5 and 3-4-4-3. They all split time 50/50 over two weeks; the difference is how long children stay in each home and how many handoffs there are. Every other weekend is common when one parent has most of the time.
Alternating weeks (7-7)
One full week in each home. It has the fewest handoffs, two every two weeks, and suits older children and parents who live further apart. The downside is a week away from each parent.
2-2-3
Two days with one parent, two with the other, then a three-day weekend, flipping the next week. Children are never more than three days from either parent, which often suits younger children, but there are six handoffs every two weeks.
2-2-5-5
Each parent has the same two weekdays every week, and the weekends alternate. The fixed weekdays make school routines and activities predictable, with four handoffs every two weeks.
3-4-4-3
Three days, then four, swapping each week. An even split with medium stretches and four handoffs every two weeks.
Every other weekend
One parent has most of the time; the other has alternate weekends, often Friday to Sunday, sometimes with a midweek visit. It's common when parents live far apart or when one parent works weekends.
Choosing one
Think about the children's ages, school and activities, the distance between homes, each parent's work, and how well you can handle frequent handoffs. Your agreement or court order sets your schedule, and many families change it as children grow.
Try the custody schedule builder (free)
Questions
What is the best custody schedule for young children?
Schedules with shorter stretches, like 2-2-3, are often used for younger children so they aren't away from either parent for long. Every family is different; a mediator or family lawyer can help.
Which schedule has the fewest handoffs?
Alternating weeks: two handoffs every two weeks.
Can we try a schedule before agreeing to it?
Yes. The free custody schedule builder shows four weeks of each pattern and each parent's share of days.
Upload your parenting plan to Tandem and your schedule appears on a shared calendar for both homes, with swaps, holidays and reminders built in.
Sources: Department of Justice Canada: create a parenting plan. Laws and official guidance change; check the source and speak to a lawyer about your situation.