Parenting Time Schedules That Work for Minnesota Families
Creating a parenting time schedule is one of the most important decisions parents make during a divorce or custody case. In Minnesota, parenting time schedules are designed to support a child’s emotional well-being while preserving strong relationships with both parents whenever possible.
Whether you are navigating divorce, custody, or a parenting time modification, understanding common Minnesota parenting time schedules can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary conflict.
Parenting Time Under Minnesota Law
Minnesota law recognizes that children generally benefit from frequent and continuing contact with both parents, as long as parenting time does not endanger the child’s physical or emotional health.
Minnesota Family Law Courts are required to:
Grant parenting time consistent with the child’s best interests
Consider each parent’s ability to support the child’s relationship with the other parent
Encourage arrangements that minimize conflict and disruption
When parents cannot agree, the court will impose a schedule based on the best interests factors set forth in Minn. Stat. § 518.17.
Common Parenting Time Schedules in Minnesota
There is no “standard” schedule that fits every family. Minnesota courts frequently approve the following parenting time arrangements.
Every Other Weekend Parenting Time
Best for: Younger children, high-conflict situations, or parents with limited availability
Typical structure:
Alternating weekends
One midweek visit or overnight
Advantages: Simple and predictable
Challenges: Limited weekday involvement for one parent
This schedule is still common in Minnesota, though courts increasingly recognize the benefits of more balanced arrangements when appropriate.
2-2-5-5 Parenting Time Schedule
Best for: Parents who live close together and communicate reasonably well
Structure:
Parent A: Monday–Tuesday
Parent B: Wednesday–Thursday
Alternating weekends Friday–Sunday
Advantages: Consistent weekdays with each parent; frequent contact
Challenges: Requires coordination and reliable communication
This schedule often works well for school-aged children in Minnesota communities where parents live near each other.
3-4-4-3 Parenting Time Schedule
Best for: Families seeking near-equal parenting time
Structure alternates three-day and four-day blocks between parents.
Advantages: Balanced parenting time
Challenges: More transitions, which may be difficult for very young children
Week-On / Week-Off Schedule
Best for: Older children and cooperative co-parents
Children alternate full weeks with each parent, often exchanging on the same weekday.
Advantages: Fewer exchanges and clearer routines
Challenges: Longer stretches without seeing one parent
Minnesota courts often view this schedule favorably for teenagers and families with strong co-parenting skills.
Holidays, School Breaks, and Vacations
A complete Minnesota parenting plan should clearly address:
Major holidays (often alternating annually)
School breaks and summer vacation
Birthdays and special family events
Clear holiday provisions reduce future disputes and are strongly encouraged by Minnesota courts.
What Makes a Parenting Time Schedule Successful?
The most effective parenting time schedules:
Prioritize the child’s stability and routine
Are specific and easy to follow
Anticipate future changes as the child grows
Reduce opportunities for conflict
When to Speak With a Minnesota Family Law Attorney
Legal guidance is especially important when:
Parents disagree on parenting time
There is a history of conflict or domestic issues
One parent is seeking to relocate
Parenting time needs to be modified
An experienced Minnesota family law attorney can help you create or modify a parenting time schedule that protects your child’s best interests and complies with Minnesota law.
Talk With a Minnesota Family Law Attorney About Parenting Time
Every family’s situation is different. If you are facing a divorce, custody dispute, or parenting time modification in Minnesota, legal advice can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and discuss parenting time options that work for your family.
