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2-5-5-2 Custody Schedule

The 2-5-5-2 schedule alternates between short 2-day visits and longer 5-day stretches. This gives children extended time with each parent while maintaining regular contact with both.

April 20262-5-5-2
SMTWTFS
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Overnights
Mom: 16 · Dad: 14
MTWTFSS
Wk 1
Wk 2
Parent A
Parent B
182/183overnights per year
4exchanges per 14-day cycle
About this schedule

How It Works

Parent A has 2 days, then Parent B has 5 days, then Parent A has 5 days, then Parent B has 2 days. The 14-day cycle repeats. Each parent gets one short visit and one long stretch per cycle.

Pros

  • ✓Long 5-day blocks allow children to settle in deeply
  • ✓Short 2-day visits maintain contact during the other parent’s long stretch
  • ✓Fewer transitions than 2-2-3 or 2-2-5-5
  • ✓True 50/50 time split

Cons

  • ✗5-day gap from one parent can be difficult for young children
  • ✗The short 2-day visit may feel rushed
  • ✗Uneven block sizes can make routine planning harder
  • ✗Less frequent contact than other 50/50 patterns

Best For

  • •Families who prioritize longer stretches over frequent contact
  • •Older children (ages 8+) comfortable with longer separations
  • •Parents who prefer fewer transitions
  • •Families transitioning from alternating weeks who want slightly more contact

Frequently Asked Questions

Other 50/50 schedules
2-2-3Alternating Weeks2-2-5-53-4-4-34-3-3-43-3-4-44 On / 4 Off3 On / 3 Off
Looking for a different split?
60/4070/3080/20
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