If you're researching custody schedules, you've probably come across a dizzying array of options: alternating weeks, 2-2-3, 3-4-4-3, and something called the 5-2-2-5. At first glance, these numbers might seem like someone threw darts at a calendar. But each schedule represents a carefully thought-out approach to dividing parenting time, and the 5-2-2-5 has become increasingly popular among co-parents seeking true 50/50 custody with a bit more consistency than other options provide.
Let's break down everything you need to know about this schedule—how it actually works in day-to-day life, whether it might be right for your family, and how to make it succeed.
The 5-2-2-5 custody schedule (sometimes called the 2-2-5-5) is a rotating schedule that divides parenting time equally between both parents. Here's the basic pattern:
Let's break down everything you need to know about this schedule—how it actually works in day-to-day life, whether it might be right for your family, and how to make it succeed.
What Exactly Is the 5-2-2-5 Schedule?
The 5-2-2-5 custody schedule (sometimes called the 2-2-5-5) is a rotating schedule that divides parenting time equally between both parents. Here's the basic pattern:
- Parent A has the children for 5 days
- Parent B has the children for 2 days
- Parent A has the children for 2 days
- Parent B has the children for 5 days
- Monday & Tuesday: Parent B
- Wednesday & Thursday: Parent A
- Friday, Saturday, Sunday: Parent B (this completes Parent B's 5-day stretch)
- Monday & Tuesday: Parent B (this completes Parent B's 2-day stretch)
- Wednesday & Thursday: Parent A
- Friday, Saturday, Sunday: Parent A (this completes Parent A's 5-day stretch)