What Is a Typical Child Contact Arrangement?

When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important matters to sort out is how the children will spend time with each parent.

What is often referred to as a “child contact arrangement” can be a source of uncertainty for many.

What is a child contact arrangement?

A child contact arrangement refers to an agreement or court-order setting out where a child lives and how much time or contact, they will have with the parent who does not live with them (often called the “non-resident parent”).

In the legal framework of England & Wales, these arrangements are now usually made through a Child Arrangements Order (CAO) under section 8 of the Children Act 1989.

While many separated parents reach their own agreement without needing to go to court, the key legal principle remains: the child’s welfare is the court’s paramount concern.

Why there is no one “typical” child contact arrangement

It is tempting to look for a “standard” or “typical” contact agreement, but in reality, each arrangement must reflect:

• the age, needs, wishes and routine of the child(ren)
• the working / home environment of each parent
• how far apart the parents live
• the level of co-operation and communication between the parents
• any safeguarding or welfare concerns

Child contact arrangements can be different for every family and there is no one right way to do it. Rather than trying to force a “model” schedule, the better approach is to focus on what works practically and emotionally for your family.

Common types and examples of child contact arrangements

Below are some of the more frequently used patterns of contact arrangements. These are illustrative only and should not be taken as “ideal” for every situation.

Shared / near-equal arrangements

Where both parents remain actively involved, live reasonably close, and can co-operate, you might see arrangements such as:

• “2-2-3” – child spends two days with Parent A, then two days with Parent B, then three days with Parent A; the next week the sequence may alternate
• Alternating weeks – child spends one full week with Parent A, then one full week with Parent B
• 50/50 splits using other patterns such as 4-3 in one week, 3-4 the next, etc

These arrangements aim to give children meaningful time with both parents and to maintain continuity of schooling and routine.

Resident parent with regular contact from the other parent

In many cases one parent (the “resident parent”) becomes the primary carer and home base, and the other parent has contact under a set routine. Examples include:

• Every weekend overnight stays with the non-resident parent or midweek overnight contact from school and to school
• Weekday evening contact (e.g., dinner and bedtime) plus alternating weekends
• Longer blocks of time with the non-resident parent during school holidays

This arrangement may be chosen where one parent works shifts, lives further away, or where younger children benefit from a more stable home base.

Long-distance or less frequent contact

If the non-resident parent lives a significant distance away or due to work / travel commitments, contact may be more limited and arranged in different ways:

• The child sees the non-resident parent every other weekend, or every three to four weeks
• The non-resident parent has longer holiday blocks (half-term, summer holidays) rather than frequent short visits
• Use of video calls or other indirect contact in between face-to-face visits

Key considerations when setting up contact arrangements

When creating or negotiating contact arrangements, the following issues are often vitally important:

Child’s age, developmental stage and wishes: Older children may have stronger views about where they live or how they spend time.

Schooling, continuity and routine: Consider school commute times, extracurricular activities, friends and stability.

Distance between parents’ homes: The geography and travel times may affect feasibility of frequent contact.

Working hours and commitments of each parent: One parent may work shifts, or travel for work; arrangements must be realistic.

Overnight stays: Whether the child will stay overnight with the non-resident parent (and how to introduce this gradually).

Special needs or vulnerabilities: If a child has additional educational, medical or emotional needs, these must be factored in.

Changes in circumstances: Work, relocation, new partner, siblings; arrangements may need flexibility.

Communication and co-parenting relationship: The more parents can co-operate and minimise conflict, the better the arrangement will work.

Safeguarding and safety: If there are concerns about domestic abuse, neglect, or other risks, supervised contact or no contact may be appropriate.

Legal enforceability: If you wish the arrangement to be enforceable, you may convert your agreement into a consent order via a solicitor.

What happens if an arrangement breaks down or needs changing?

Children grow, parents’ circumstances change, and arrangements that once worked may stop doing so. Here’s what to consider:

1. Review and communicate: If things are not working, talk with the other parent. What is causing the breakdown? What changes are needed for the child’s benefit?
2. Agree changes if possible: You may adapt the arrangement together. It’s best to document any change in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
3. Return to mediation: If communication is difficult, mediation can help re-negotiate.
4. Apply to court: If you cannot agree, you may apply to vary the CAO. The court will again decide based on the child’s best interests.
5. Enforcement: If a court-ordered arrangement is being ignored by the other parent, enforcement steps may be available.

Why you should seek specialist family law advice

While it is entirely possible for parents to agree contact arrangements without legal help, there are many reasons why specialist guidance is beneficial:

• Ensuring that any written agreement or parenting plan is clear, workable and protects your child’s welfare
• Advising on whether a settlement should be converted into a legally binding consent order
• Helping assess whether mediation or court is the better path (or both)
• Representing your interests in applications to court, including providing evidence and guiding through hearings
• Advising on complex issues such as relocation, parental responsibility, long-distance contact, safeguarding issues, or enforcement concerns

How Hegarty can help

If you are considering or negotiating a child contact arrangement, or if your current arrangement is under strain, our family law team can provide tailored advice and support.

Whether through negotiation, mediation or court proceedings, we are here to help you prioritise your child’s welfare and reach the best possible outcome.

Contact us today to arrange an initial consultation. You’ll speak with a dedicated specialist in child contact and family law who will listen, explain your options, and help you plan your next steps with confidence.