5-2-2-5 Custody Schedule
A 50/50 custody arrangement with longer stretches of time with each parent, reducing the number of weekly exchanges while maintaining equal parenting time.
What is the 5-2-2-5 Schedule?
The 5-2-2-5 schedule (sometimes called 2-2-5-5) is a custody arrangement where children spend 5 days with one parent, then 2 days with the other, then 2 days back with the first, then 5 days with the second. This creates a predictable two-week rotation with fewer transitions than schedules like the 2-2-3.
How It Works
Here's what a typical two-week cycle looks like:
The pattern then repeats with the parents swapped for the next two weeks.
Overnight Breakdown
| Parent | Overnights/Year | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Parent A | 182-183 | 50% |
| Parent B | 182-183 | 50% |
Pros
- True 50/50 split — both parents have equal time
- Fewer exchanges than 2-2-3 (only 2 per week vs 5)
- Longer stretches allow for more routine and stability
- Each parent gets both weekdays and weekends
- Qualifies as shared custody in all states
Cons
- Children may go 5 days without seeing one parent
- Can be harder for younger children who need more frequent contact
- Requires good co-parenting communication for school/activities
- Longer stretches mean more packing and transitioning
Best For
- School-age children who can handle longer separations
- Parents who prefer fewer exchanges and more stability
- Families where parents live somewhat farther apart
- Children who need time to settle into each household
Frequently Asked Questions
How many overnights is a 5-2-2-5 custody schedule?
A 5-2-2-5 schedule results in 182-183 overnights per parent per year, which is a true 50/50 split.
What's the difference between 5-2-2-5 and 2-2-5-5?
They're the same schedule — just named differently based on which segment you start counting from. Both achieve a 50/50 split with the same pattern.
How does 5-2-2-5 compare to 2-2-3?
Both are 50/50 schedules, but 5-2-2-5 has longer stretches (up to 5 days) with only 2 exchanges per week, while 2-2-3 has shorter stretches (max 3 days) with 5 exchanges per week. Choose based on your child's needs.
Is 5-2-2-5 good for toddlers?
Generally, younger children do better with more frequent contact. The 2-2-3 schedule may be more appropriate for toddlers, while 5-2-2-5 works well for school-age children.
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