Parenting Plans in South Africa: A Guide for Divorcing Parents

When parents separate or divorce, both usually want as much time with their children as possible — and that’s completely natural. But under South African law, when custody and contact are in dispute, a parenting plan is required to set out clear arrangements in the best interests of the child.

At Divorce Mediation Randburg, we help parents design parenting plans that are practical, balanced, and child-focused — reducing conflict and avoiding unnecessary court battles.

What Is a Parenting Plan?

In South Africa, a parenting plan is a written agreement that sets out how parents will exercise their parental responsibilities and rights.

  • Parenting plans are compulsory as part of divorces in South Africa in cases involving minor children and highly recommended in cases where parents were not married.

  • Dispute resolution tool: If parents agree, they may not need to reference the plan day-to-day — but it becomes vital when disagreements arise.

  • Best interests principle: The Children’s Act 38 of 2005 requires that all parenting plans prioritise the child’s needs above all else.

Benefits of a Parenting Plan in Mediation

Working out a parenting plan through mediation has several advantages:

  • Reduces stress and conflict between parents

  • Helps children adjust to their new routines

  • Avoids costly and lengthy litigation

  • Encourages cooperative co-parenting

Common Parenting Schedules in South Africa

Parenting plans can be customised to fit your family’s needs. Below are some of the most commonly used schedules:

1. Week-On / Week-Off

  • Each parent cares for the children for one week at a time.

  • Tip: Mid-week handovers (e.g., Wednesday) often work better than weekends.

2. The 2-2-5-5 Schedule

  • Parent A: Every Monday & Tuesday

  • Parent B: Every Wednesday & Thursday

  • Parents alternate weekends

  • Good for school-aged children.

3. The 2-2-3 Schedule

  • Week 1: Parent A (Mon–Tue), Parent B (Wed–Thu), Parent A (Fri–Sun)

  • Week 2: Swap

  • Ideal for younger children or parents who prefer shorter gaps.

4. Six Nights Out of Fourteen

  • Every other weekend (Fri–Mon)

  • One mid-week overnight

  • Extra night before the other parent’s weekend

  • Useful where 50/50 isn’t realistic.

5. Every Other Weekend + One Weeknight

  • Alternating weekends plus one mid-week night

  • Reliable, simple, and widely used.

6. Every Other Weekend Only

  • Alternating weekends (Fri–Sun or Mon morning drop-off)

  • Works when one parent has limited availability.

Long-Distance Parenting Plans

Where parents live far apart, longer blocks of time are usually agreed:

  • Extended school holidays for the long-distance parent

  • Clear travel and exchange arrangements

  • Adjustment periods before school resumes

Holidays and Special Occasions

A parenting plan should address holidays, birthdays, and special events:

  • Split holidays in a way that reflects each family’s traditions (e.g., Christmas Eve with one parent, Christmas Day with the other).

  • Allow flexibility for special trips or family events like weddings or funerals.

  • Include “make-up time” where appropriate.

Key Principles to Remember

  • Parenting plans must always reflect the best interests of the child, not what feels “fair” to parents.

  • Work schedules, school routines, and travel logistics all matter.

  • Plans should balance responsibilities — one parent shouldn’t only handle school days while the other only has weekends.

  • The goal is stability and consistency for children.

Why Mediation Helps

At Divorce Mediation Randburg we guide parents through the process of creating parenting plans that are:

  • Legally compliant with the Children’s Act

  • Practical for both parents

  • Focused on minimising conflict and protecting the children

Our role is to keep discussions child-centred, helping parents move forward with dignity and cooperation.

Final Thoughts

Your children didn’t choose this separation. A well-structured parenting plan ensures their needs come first and helps you both co-parent with less conflict.

Remember — the most effective parenting plans are rarely used as weapons in disputes. Instead, they act as a safety net — allowing children to thrive while parents share responsibilities with respect and care.