What if the parenting plan that feels most fair to the adults isn’t actually the best fit for the child?

In this episode of Divorcing Without Damage, Dr. Leslie Roberts takes a closer look at one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of divorce: the parenting plan.

As a forensic psychologist, evaluator, and child-centered divorce coach, Leslie has seen countless parenting plans built around equal time, equal holidays, and what feels fair between two parents. But she challenges us to consider a different question: What does this particular child actually need?

From the popular 50/50 week-on, week-off schedule to the developmental needs of toddlers, young children, tweens, and teenagers, Leslie explains why there is no one-size-fits-all parenting plan. Age, temperament, distance between homes, school schedules, activities, and each parent’s real-world capacity all matter.

She also explains why a parenting plan shouldn't be treated as something that is signed once and defended forever. Kids grow. Their needs change. Families change. A plan that works beautifully at five may not make sense at twelve or sixteen.

Most importantly, Leslie shares three child-first questions every parent should ask when creating or revisiting a parenting plan:

1. What does my child need right now, developmentally?
2. What is actually sustainable for both households?
3. How will we know when the plan stops working—and how will we revisit it?

Because a parenting plan isn't just a peace treaty between two adults. It's the framework your child is going to live inside.

Your child didn't choose the divorce. The very least the parenting plan can do is be built around them.

Find more tools, scripts, and support at childcentereddivorce.net.