Parenting Plan Template
A parenting plan is a written record of how separated parents intend to care for and support their children. It focuses on practical arrangements and communication, and is designed to reduce uncertainty and conflict by helping parents think things through calmly.
What is a parenting plan?
A parenting plan is not a legal document.
It is a practical tool that helps parents record agreements and intentions about day-to-day care, communication, and decision-making for their children.
Many parents use parenting plans:
- Before or during mediation
- When trying to improve co-parenting communication
- To bring clarity during or after separation
A note about safety
Parenting plans are designed for situations where it is safe to communicate and plan together.
If there are concerns about safety — including domestic abuse, coercive control, child safety, or serious substance misuse — a parenting plan may not be appropriate.
In these situations, professional support should be sought before attempting to create a plan.
How to use this template
The template below is a simplified parenting plan.
It is designed to:
- Help you think through key areas
- Act as a discussion tool
- Be printable or saved as a PDF
You do not need to complete every section.
Parenting plan template (simplified)
You can work through these sections at your own pace.
Children
Living arrangements
Communication with children
Communication between parents
Education, health and activities
Holidays and special days
Day-to-day costs
Reviewing arrangements
Saving or downloading your plan
You can:
- Print this page
- Save it as a PDF using your browser
- Copy sections into your own document
No information is saved on this website.
Need a more detailed parenting plan?
Cafcass provides a comprehensive and interactive parenting plan tool, which many parents find helpful.
It includes additional guidance and prompts.
Create a parenting plan using the Cafcass online toolChildren's voices and mediation
In some cases, mediation may involve giving children an opportunity to share their views in a safe and appropriate way.
This is known as child-inclusive mediation and is always carefully assessed by the mediator.
A parenting plan can support these conversations by helping parents focus on children's needs.
Common questions
Is a parenting plan legally binding?
A parenting plan is not legally binding, but it is a widely respected tool that helps parents agree on arrangements for their children. If needed, the key terms can be formalised through a consent order.
What should a parenting plan include?
A parenting plan typically covers where children live, how time is divided between parents, holiday arrangements, communication methods, and how decisions about the children are made.
Can a parenting plan be changed later?
Yes. Parenting plans are intended to be flexible and can be reviewed and updated as children grow or circumstances change.
When you're ready
If you would like structured support to discuss parenting arrangements, a MIAM can help you understand whether mediation may be suitable.
Book a MIAM onlineDelivered by qualified family mediators in England & Wales.
Parenting after separation can feel challenging. Taking time to plan calmly and focus on children's needs can help create greater stability and reassurance for everyone involved.