Parenting Plans in Ontario: What to Include and How to Create One

Why Is a Parenting Plan Important?

Children benefit from predictability and stability, especially during and after a family separation. A detailed parenting plan reduces ambiguity, decreases the likelihood of conflict, and helps both parents understand their respective roles and responsibilities. When issues arise later, a comprehensive parenting plan provides a framework for resolution.

Key Elements of a Parenting Plan

Parenting Schedule

The parenting schedule is often the most detailed part of the plan. It should specify where the children will reside during regular weeks, how transitions between homes will occur, the schedule for weekends, and how holidays and special occasions will be shared or alternated.

Holiday and Special Occasion Schedule

A good parenting plan addresses statutory holidays, school holidays, spring break, summer vacation, and special occasions such as birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and religious observances. Clarity on these matters prevents recurring disputes each year.

Decision-Making Arrangements

The plan should specify how major decisions about the children’s health, education, religion, and general welfare will be made — whether jointly, by one parent, or divided by area of responsibility. It should also address how parents will communicate about these decisions.

Communication Between Parents

Establishing how parents will communicate about the children — whether by email, text, phone, or a co-parenting app — can prevent misunderstandings. The plan can specify how quickly each parent is expected to respond and what method of communication should be used for different types of issues.

Travel and Relocation

The parenting plan should address how travel with the children is handled, including domestic and international travel. It should also set out what happens if one parent wants to relocate — notice requirements, consent requirements, and what happens if the parents disagree.

Extracurricular Activities

Provisions about who chooses and pays for extracurricular activities, and how activities that overlap with parenting time will be managed, can prevent disputes. Consider how expenses will be shared and how both parents can stay involved in the children’s activities.

Medical and Emergency Decisions

The plan should address how medical decisions will be made, how each parent will be kept informed of medical appointments and emergencies, and how contact information for medical providers will be shared.

Can a Parenting Plan Be Varied?

As children grow and circumstances change, a parenting plan may need to be updated. Both parents can agree to vary the plan by entering into an amended agreement. If one parent wishes to change the plan and the other disagrees, they can bring an application to vary a parenting order through the court, provided there has been a material change in circumstances.

Using a Mediator to Create a Parenting Plan

Many separated parents find it helpful to use a family mediator to assist in creating a parenting plan. Mediators are neutral professionals who help facilitate productive discussions. Agreements reached through mediation can then be reviewed by each parent’s lawyer and formalized in a separation agreement or court order.