Parenting Plans

This page is for parents who are seeking information about how to arrange a parenting agreement or modify parenting plans that will best meet your children’s needs.  While most of the information is focused on the children’s needs, it is important for you to also take care of yourself.  You may be experiencing normal, but nonetheless painful, feelings about your relationship with the other parent not working out the way you had wanted.  It is essential that you get the support you need to help you cope as best as possible.  Just as they advise in airplanes, put your oxygen mask on yourself before your children.  This is because you have to stay emotionally and physically strong to be able to take care of your children.  Reach out to friends and family for support, and consider professional help.

Below are links to resources and information.

Los Angeles County Superior Court has brochures about Parenting Plans based on the children’s ages:

• Infants and Toddlers – Children under three years old
• Children from three to five years old
• Children from six to nine years old
• Children from ten to thirteen years old
• Children from fourteen to eighteen years old

Holiday and Vacation Schedules
http://www.lacourt.org/selfhelp/familiesandchildren/pdf/parentingholiday.pdf

What Parenting Plan should I use if I have children at different stages, for example, a toddler and an 11 year old?
Parenting Plans should consider your children’s individual needs along with the comfort they find in having their siblings with them and being able to do activities that suit their interests.  This is a balance that requires an ongoing assessment of each of your children’s needs and functioning.  You may wish to consider a consultation with a therapist knowledgeable about children and custody.  You may call me at (310) 376-2047 to discuss how I may be of assistance.

• Parenting Plan Brochure from Orange County with helpful information on child development, information to consider in working out a parenting plan, and worksheets to utilize.

Other States’ Parenting Plan – Parenting Agreement Information

• The Arizona Courts Booklet describes information on Parenting Plans for children of different ages and family situations, and contains examples and worksheets.
• Oregon’s brochure has helpful information on child development and plans for families who relocate (move away).

Domestic Violence Concerns and Resources

• National Domestic Violence Hotline has information and resources related to domestic violence.
• Oregon has a brochure with helpful questions in English and Spanish about when you may need a Safety Plan.
• Oregon’s examples of Parenting Plan Schedules when a Safety Plan is needed in English and Spanish
• Los Angeles County Domestic Violence Resources
• Los Angeles County Superior Court Domestic Violence Resources
• Los Angeles County Bar Association has volunteer attorneys and law students to help with filing for restraining orders. Learn more
• In California, when there is a disagreement concerning the children, the Court can order, or the parents can agree to post separation counseling for themselves, or the children, Family Code Section 3190. Counseling can frequently help avoid further conflicts or litigation.