Jul 21, 2025

Why “Just Figure It Out Later” Is Terrible Custody Advice, and What to Do Instead

A parent stressed on the phone with custody confusion as a child waits with a bag, unsure where to go.
A parent stressed on the phone with custody confusion as a child waits with a bag, unsure where to go.

What Most People Think

"Let’s just get through the divorce. We’ll deal with the schedule later."

That sounds reasonable... until it’s Friday at 5 PM and no one knows where the kids are supposed to go.

Why That’s a Problem

When parenting plans are unclear, everything becomes a source of contention.
Vacations. Holidays. Even simple pickups.

Without a clear custody schedule, parents often end up back in court—or worse, in conflict in front of the children.

The Truth No One Talks About

You don’t need a lawyer to create a real, usable parenting plan.

What you do need is a clear, court-ready schedule that both of you understand and can adhere to.

And no, that generic parenting plan template from Google won’t cut it. It’s too broad, too bland, and doesn’t account for your real-life logistics.

How to Get It Right

Start with what the courts care about:

  • Consistency

  • Child’s best interest

  • Clear documentation

A solid child custody agreement outlines:

  • Who has the kids when

  • How transitions happen

  • What happens during holidays, school breaks, and emergencies

Not sure what each option actually looks like? Here’s a real-world guide to the 2-2-3 custody schedule to help you decide if it’s a fit.

Here are three custody schedules that often work:

1. 2-2-3 Rotation (Great for younger kids)
Parent A: Mon–Tues
Parent B: Wed–Thurs
Alternate weekends

2. Week-On/Week-Off (Better for older kids)
Simple, but you need solid communication.

3. Every Other Weekend + One Weeknight (Often used in joint custody)
More stability, but one parent gets less time.

A Smarter Way, Try the Free Custody Calendar Calculator

Instead of wrestling with spreadsheets or guesswork, use the Parenting Plan Builder on GoatAnswer.com.

It’s a free custody calendar calculator that helps you:

  • Build a schedule that works for both parents

  • Customize based on your state laws and family needs

  • Get a shareable, printable plan for mediation or court

It even gives a quick overview of how child support calculators usually work in your state (so you’re not blindsided later).

And if high conflict is a concern, read this step-by-step breakdown of building a solid parenting plan even when communication is tough.

Try the Parenting Plan Builder for free.