Understanding the Sole Custody Visitation Schedule
Sole Custody is an arrangement where the child resides almost exclusively with one parent, while the other parent has scheduled visitation rights. This schedule prioritizes stability and a single primary home, while ensuring the child maintains a meaningful relationship with the non-custodial parent through consistent, predictable visits.
1. Overview
In a Sole Custody Visitation Schedule, the division of time is significantly weighted toward one parent.
- Custodial Parent (Parent A): The child lives here 90-95% of the time. This is the child's primary address for school and medical records.
- Non-Custodial Parent (Parent B): Has specific visitation times, which may or may not include overnights.
This schedule is distinct from "Every Other Weekend" (80/20) because the visitation is often shorter or restricted. It is commonly used when distance, work schedules, or safety concerns make overnight stays or longer visits impractical.
2. How the Visitation Schedule Works
There is no single template, but the goal is consistent contact without disruption.
Example A: Daytime Only
- Parent B visits: Every Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. No overnights.
Example B: The "Dinner" Schedule
- Parent B visits: Every Wednesday evening (5:00 PM - 8:00 PM) and every other Sunday (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM).
In both cases, the child sleeps in their own bed at Parent A's house every night. This provides extreme routine stability for the child while allowing regular bonding time with Parent B.
3. Visual Example
The calendar is predominantly one color (Parent A). The visits with Parent B (Green) appear as short blocks, often on weekends or evenings.
Full Day
10am-6pm
Full Day
Full Day
10am-6pm
Full Day
4. Weekly Rotation Breakdown
Because the child lives full-time with one parent, the "rotation" is really just a scheduled appointment.
- Routine Integrity: The child's sleep schedule, meal routine, and homework habits are entirely managed by Parent A. Parent B enters the child's life for leisure and bonding but does not disrupt the core routine.
- The "Hand-Off": Exchanges must be punctual. Since visits are short (e.g., 4-8 hours), being 30 minutes late eats up a significant portion of the parenting time.
5. Advantages
Ultimate Stability
The child never has to pack a bag or wonder where they are sleeping. This is incredibly grounding for children with anxiety, special needs, or those struggling with the divorce.
Clear Authority
There is no confusion about rules. Parent A sets the tone for discipline, education, and health. This eliminates the "but Dad lets me stay up late" arguments.
Safety
In cases where Parent B has limited housing stability or is recovering from personal issues, this schedule allows them to maintain a relationship with the child without the responsibility of overnight care.
Simplicity
Logistics are minimal. You don't need double wardrobes or duplicate toys. The child's life remains centralized in one location.
6. Disadvantages
Parental Burnout
Parent A is "on duty" 24/7. They rarely get a weekend off or a free evening. The mental load of being the sole provider of care is immense.
Weakened Bond
Without overnights, Parent B misses out on the intimacy of bedtime stories, morning breakfasts, and the "unscripted" moments of life. They can feel like an extended relative rather than a parent.
"Disney Parent" Dynamic
Because Parent B's time is so limited and focused on weekends, visits often revolve around fun outings (zoo, movies). Parent A gets stuck with all the chores and homework.
Resentment
Parent B may feel marginalized and excluded from the child's life. Parent A may feel overwhelmed and unsupported. Both sides often harbor resentment.
7. Best Situations for This Schedule
Sole custody schedules are usually specific to certain circumstances:
- Distance: Parent B lives 2+ hours away and cannot handle school transport, making weeknight or overnight visits impossible.
- Infants: A breastfeeding baby cannot be away from the mother overnight yet.
- Safety/Housing: Parent B lives in a studio apartment, with roommates, or in transitional housing that isn't suitable for a child overnight.
- High-Intensity Jobs: Parent B travels Monday-Friday every week or works night shifts that prevent overnight care.
8. When It May Not Work Well
- Capable, Willing Parents: If both parents are fit and live nearby, courts generally prefer more equitable time (like 80/20 or 60/40) to foster both relationships.
- Older Children: Teens may resent having a "visitation appointment" every Saturday that conflicts with their friends. They often prefer more flexibility.
9. Common Questions Parents Ask
Is this permanent?
Not necessarily. Custody orders can be modified. This schedule is often a starting point (e.g., for an infant or a parent moving into a new city) that expands into overnights later.
Does Parent B pay more child support?
Yes. In almost all jurisdictions, child support is highest in sole custody arrangements because Parent A is bearing 100% of the daily costs of housing, food, and utilities.
Can Parent B attend school events?
Yes. Unless there is a restraining order or specific legal ban, non-custodial parents usually retain the right to attend public school events, sports games, and recitals, even if it's not their "visitation day."
The content provided here is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, professional diagnosis, or a binding parenting agreement. Custody laws vary significantly by state and country. Before finalizing any parenting plan, you should consult with a qualified family law attorney or a court-certified mediator to ensure your schedule complies with local regulations and serves the best interests of your child.