What is a Parenting Plan in Florida and How Does it Affect School and Holidays?
A parenting plan in Florida is a court-approved document that explains how separated, unmarried or divorced parents will share time with their child and make decisions about important matters. It covers schooling, holidays, medical care, and extracurricular activities. With the new school year already underway, many parents are realizing just how much their parenting plan shapes day-to-day life.
Why Parenting Plans Are Required in Florida
Florida law requires a parenting plan in every case involving minor children, even if parents agree on custody. Courts focus on the best interests of the child and want clear guidelines that reduce conflict. A parenting plan is designed to:
- Provide children with consistency across two households
- Set rules for decision-making about school and activities
- Define time-sharing schedules during the week, on weekends, and during holidays
- Offer a legal reference point if disputes arise
Without a parenting plan, schools, doctors, and even the courts may be left uncertain about who has authority.
Parenting Plans and School Choices
One of the most common concerns is: Who decides where a child goes to school in Florida custody cases?
The answer depends on parental responsibility. In most cases, courts encourage shared parental responsibility, which means both parents must agree on major decisions like school enrollment. If parents cannot agree, the judge may grant one parent ultimate responsibility for education decisions.
Parenting plans should spell out details such as:
- Which parent’s address determines school zoning
- How private versus public school decisions will be made
- Who communicates with teachers and attends school conferences
- How after-school programs or tutoring are handled
Since the school year is already underway, parents who have not addressed these details may already be experiencing conflict. A parenting plan can help resolve these issues before they affect the child.
Time-Sharing and Holidays
Other questions parents often ask are: How are holidays divided in Florida custody cases? and What about teacher workdays and school breaks?
Parenting plans provide a predictable schedule for:
- Regular weeks: which parent has weekday and weekend time
- School holidays: teacher workdays, spring break, and summer vacation
- Major holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Easter, or other family traditions
- Special days: birthdays, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day
- Exchange times: when and where children move between households
Because the fall semester is already in progress, now is the time to clarify holiday schedules. Clear plans prevent last-minute disputes during the busy holiday season.
Extracurricular Activities and Health Care
Parenting plans also help answer questions like: Who decides if my child joins a sports team? Who pays for extracurricular activities? What if my child needs medical treatment?
A good plan covers:
- Shared or sole decision-making for medical and dental care
- Who pays for sports, clubs, and other activities
- Transportation responsibilities for practices, games, or lessons
- Scheduling rules for activities that may conflict with time-sharing
Without these details, children may miss out on opportunities, or parents may argue over costs and schedules.
Communication and Records
Parents often ask: Do both parents have access to school records in Florida?
Yes. Under the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), both parents are entitled to school and medical records unless a court order says otherwise. Parenting plans usually address:
- How parents share report cards, progress reports, and medical updates
- Agreed-upon communication methods (text, email, co-parenting apps)
- Notification requirements for school events or emergencies
This ensures both parents remain involved in their child’s education and well-being.
Common Parenting Plan Mistakes
Parents sometimes overlook important details when creating their plan. Common mistakes include:
- Not specifying how to handle future school changes
- Leaving out transportation responsibilities
- Forgetting to divide holiday and summer schedules
- Assuming schools will manage parent communication
Working with an experienced child custody lawyer helps avoid these oversights.
FAQs About Parenting Plans in Florida
Do all divorces with children require a parenting plan?
Yes. Parenting plans are mandatory in Florida whenever custody or time-sharing is involved.
Can a parenting plan be modified?
Yes. Parents may request modification if circumstances change, such as relocation, changes in the child’s needs, or ongoing disputes.
What happens if we disagree on school choice?
If parents share responsibility and cannot agree, the court will decide based on the child’s best interests.
Can one parent change schools without the other’s consent?
No. Unless a parenting plan grants sole educational decision-making, both parents must agree or seek court approval.
How are holidays usually divided?
Most parenting plans alternate major holidays each year, with each parent having certain days reserved every year such as Mother’s Day or Father’s Day.
Final Thoughts
Parenting plans in Florida are not just about custody. They shape how children experience school, holidays, and everyday life between two households. With the school year already started, parents should review their plan to make sure it addresses education, holiday schedules, extracurricular activities, and communication. A clear plan helps children feel secure and reduces the chance of conflict.
At The Law Office of Eric C. Cheshire, we have over 30 years of experience as a child custody attorney in West Palm Beach, helping families draft and modify parenting plans. Our goal is to protect your child’s best interests while giving you peace of mind about school decisions, holidays, and the future.
Contact us today at (561) 677-8090 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you create a parenting plan that works for your family.