Family law · 7 min read · Published September 2026
Parenting arrangements and the child’s best interests
How to prepare for a parenting discussion by focusing on the child’s routine, safety, relationships, and practical needs.
Short answer
Parenting decisions in Ontario focus on the child’s best interests, including safety, stability, relationships, history of care, and each parent’s ability to support the child’s needs. A workable plan should describe ordinary days, holidays, communication, decision-making, and what happens when circumstances change.
What makes a parenting plan useful?
A plan is more useful when it answers ordinary questions rather than only stating broad intentions. Write the schedule in calendar language and identify how handoffs and changes will work.
- Regular weekly schedule and holiday rotation
- Transportation, school, medical appointments, and activities
- How parents will share information and make decisions
- A process for schedule changes and disagreements
What information should you prepare?
Focus on the child’s lived routine and needs. Avoid turning the first meeting into a list of adult grievances unless a fact affects safety, parenting capacity, or a legal issue.
- History of caregiving and current routines
- School, medical, developmental, or accessibility information
- Travel plans and important extended-family relationships
- Any safety, substance-use, or protection concerns
Common questions
Does equal time automatically apply?
No. Parenting time is not determined by a single automatic schedule. The appropriate arrangement depends on the child’s best interests and the facts of the family.
Can a parenting plan be changed?
It can sometimes be changed by agreement or through a legal process when circumstances or the child’s needs change. Put any important change in writing and get advice when needed.
Official sources to check
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