Step-Up Parenting Plan Template

This Step-Up Parenting Plan (the “Plan”) is made as of [Effective Date] by and between:

Parent A: [Full Name], address: [Address]
Parent B: [Full Name], address: [Address]

Child(ren): [Name(s), DOB(s)]
Case/Court (Optional): [Court/County], Case No. [__]
Existing Order (If Any): [Date] (the “Existing Order”)

1. Purpose and Status

1.1 The Parents agree to a staged parenting schedule to support the child(ren)’s best interests and to increase parenting time over time.
1.2 This Plan is intended to be: ☐ effective upon signature ☐ subject to court approval (if required).
1.3 If there is a conflict, the Existing Order controls unless modified by court.

2. Stage Overview

2.1 The Plan includes the following stages:

• Stage 1: [Dates or duration]

• Stage 2: [Dates or duration]

• Stage 3: [Dates or duration]

• Stage 4 (optional): [Dates or duration]

2.2 Stage changes occur automatically ☐ yes ☐ no. If no, stage changes require: ☐ written agreement ☐ therapist/supervisor recommendation ☐ court order.

3. Stage 1 Schedule (Initial)

3.1 Dates/Duration: [Start–End]
3.2 Parenting time for Parent [A/B]:

• [Days/times]

• Supervision: ☐ none ☐ supervised by [Name/Center]

• Location: [__]

3.3 Conditions (optional):
☐ on-time arrivals
☐ no missed visits
☐ completion of [class/therapy]
☐ negative alcohol/drug tests (if applicable)
☐ other: [__]

4. Stage 2 Schedule

4.1 Dates/Duration: [Start–End]
4.2 Parenting time for Parent [A/B]:

• [Days/times]

• Overnights: ☐ none ☐ [__] per week/month

• Supervision: ☐ none ☐ supervised by [__]

4.3 Conditions to move forward (optional): [List].

5. Stage 3 Schedule

5.1 Dates/Duration: [Start–End]
5.2 Parenting time for Parent [A/B]:

• [Days/times]

• Overnights: [__]

• Holidays (optional): [__]

5.3 Conditions to move forward (optional): [List].

6. Stage 4 Schedule (Optional)

6.1 Dates/Duration: [Start–End]
6.2 Parenting time schedule: [Describe].

7. Exchanges and Communication

7.1 Exchange location and rules: [School/public place/drop-and-go].
7.2 Communication method: ☐ parenting app ☐ email ☐ text (emergency only).
7.3 Child communications with other parent: [Schedule].

8. Safety and Child Needs

8.1 Baseline rules: no substances, no threats, safe car seat use, etc.
8.2 If the child shows signs of distress, the Parents agree to: [pause step-up; consult therapist; adjust schedule].

9. Make-Up Time, Cancellations, and No-Shows

9.1 Notice requirement: [__] hours.
9.2 Make-up visits: [Rules].
9.3 Repeated missed visits may: ☐ pause the step-up ☐ require mediation ☐ require court review.

10. Disputes and Review

10.1 Disputes: ☐ mediation ☐ parenting coordinator ☐ court.
10.2 Review date(s): [Dates].

Signatures

Parent A: [Full Name]
Date: [Date]
Signature: ___________________________

Parent B: [Full Name]
Date: [Date]
Signature: ___________________________