2-2-3 Custody Schedule

A popular 50/50 custody arrangement with frequent exchanges, giving both parents regular time with their children throughout each week.

What is the 2-2-3 Schedule?

The 2-2-3 custody schedule (also called the "alternating 2-2-3") rotates children between parents in a predictable two-week pattern. Each parent has the children for 2 days, then the other parent has them for 2 days, then the first parent has them for 3 days. The pattern flips the following week.

How It Works

Here's what a typical two-week cycle looks like:

The pattern then repeats, with Week 3 identical to Week 1.

Overnight Breakdown

Pros

• True 50/50 split — both parents have equal time
• Children see both parents multiple times per week
• No parent goes more than 3 days without seeing the children
• Predictable pattern that's easy to remember once established
• Qualifies as shared custody in all states

Cons

• Requires 5 exchanges per week — can be logistically demanding
• Parents need to live relatively close together
• Can be confusing to track which parent has which days
• May be disruptive for children who prefer longer stretches

Best For

• Younger children who benefit from frequent contact with both parents
• Parents who live within 15-20 minutes of each other
• Parents with flexible work schedules
• Families where both parents are highly involved

Frequently Asked Questions