Parenting Plan Provisions and Stipulations
In a parenting plan, divorcing and separating parents explain how they'll continue to raise their child. Some parents see eye-to-eye and can make do with a simple plan. Other parents argue frequently; their plans could be over 20 pages long.
In either case, when you write a parenting plan, read through the common provisions (rules) in the categories below. If you feel a topic may be important to your child, consider including it. Adjust the language as needed.
You can also find these provisions in the Custody X Change parenting plan template. Just fill in the blanks to customize them, then print your parenting plan for court.
Provisions by category:
Child–parent relationship
Ground rules you may want to set for a parent's communication with their child, including communication about new romantic partners.
Education and extracurricular activities
Consider setting rules about school attendance, parents' participation in extracurricular activities and other related topics.
Medical and health care
Use or personalize these medical provisions about payments, appointments and more to avoid conflict about your child's health.
Parent communication
Many parents find it helpful to say in their plan exactly how they'll communicate going forward.
Parenting
Potential rules about discipline, the child's possessions and looking out for the child's health.
Parenting time and exchanges
Consider these provisions to set exchange locations, deadlines for requesting changes to the parenting schedule, and more.
Travel and moving
Sample stipulations for your parenting plan about traveling with the child and moving.
Specific provisions:
6 common parenting plan provisions
The basic issues your plan should cover.
7 overlooked provisions to include in your parenting plan
What seven family law professionals tell their clients to include in a parenting plan.
Sample custody stipulations: 9 common examples
Consider adding these provisions so your plan covers more than the basics.
Put the right of first refusal in your parenting plan
This custody provision can help you get more time with your child. Learn what it is and how to implement it.