Parallel parenting plan template (free PDF + Word).

What’s in the template

Page 1 is an instructions page. The worksheet starts on page 2. The same sections are in the PDF and the Word file.

• 1. CommunicationChannel for non-emergency messages, topics they cover, reply time in hours, what counts as an emergency and how it is communicated, any length or format limits.
• 2. ExchangesDays and times, location(s), who drives, lateness, other adults who may do handoffs, and items that travel with the children.
• 3. DecisionsWho makes day-to-day, education, medical and activity decisions, how a joint decision is proposed and answered, and a blank for what happens if parents disagree.
• 4. InformationEach parent’s access to school and medical information, how activity schedules are shared, the handoff update, and travel notice.
• 5. Schedule changesHow a change is requested, notice needed, reply deadline, what no reply means, and make-up time if the plan addresses it.
• 6. The children’s contactCalls or video chats during the other parent’s time: days, times, length, who sets them up.
• 7. Events and activitiesSchool events and games, birthdays, and activities that fall during the other parent’s time.
• 8. ConductMessages through the children, talking about the case in front of them, social media, and new partners, if the plan addresses them.
• 9. Reviewing the planWhen parents look at how it is working and how changes are made, plus space for notes and open questions. Informal notes don’t replace a court order.

How to fill it in

Writing tips only. They don’t say what to ask for, agree to or file, or how a court will see anything; your court’s rules and a licensed attorney where you live can answer that.

• Start with your court’s form.If your court has its own parenting plan form, use it. This worksheet can help you list the topics before you fill that form in.
• Only the topics that apply.Cross out sections that don’t fit your family, or write “Not covered”.
• Exact details.Days, times, places and numbers of hours are easier to follow than general words.
• Same names throughout.Use the same name for each person and place in every section.
• Date every draft.Write the draft date and version number at the top and keep each version.
• Ask before you sign.Don’t sign or submit anything you don’t understand. Ask for time, or ask a licensed attorney where you live.

More free guides and templates

• Parallel parenting vs. co-parenting: how each works and the plan terms parents often use.
• Parallel parenting communication rules: channels, reply times and message examples.
• How to write a parenting plan: the full structure, including the schedule.
• Holiday schedule worksheet and custody calendar template for the schedule itself.
• Co-parenting text message examples: short, calm wording for everyday messages.
• Custody exchange log: one row for every pickup and drop-off.

Questions about the parallel parenting plan template

What is a parallel parenting plan?

It is a parenting arrangement written to keep direct contact between the parents low: one channel for messages, set reply times, exchanges that don’t need the parents to interact, a defined process for decisions, and each parent getting school and medical information directly. Both parents stay involved with the children; it is the contact between the adults that is limited.

What does this template include?

An instructions page, then a worksheet with nine sections: communication, exchanges, decisions, information about the children, schedule changes, the children’s contact with the other parent, events and activities, conduct, and reviewing the plan, plus space for notes. Blanks and neutral placeholders only; it doesn’t say what to ask for or agree to.

Is this an official court form?

No. It is a worksheet, not a court-approved form, and a filled-in worksheet is not an order. Many courts require their own parenting plan form or specific wording. Check your court’s forms page or self-help center, and consult a licensed attorney where you live if you can.

Is the parallel parenting plan template free?

Yes. The PDF and the Word file are free downloads with no signup and no email. The Word file opens in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages and LibreOffice.

Is parallel parenting right when there is abuse?

Parallel parenting is a structure for high conflict, not a safety plan. If there are threats, violence, stalking or a protective order, the order’s terms on contact and exchanges come first, and a local domestic violence advocate can help with safety planning. If you’re in danger, call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788.

Is this legal advice?

No. It is a worksheet for organizing your own information. It doesn’t tell you what to ask for, agree to or file, or how a court will view anything. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed attorney where you live.

A worksheet, not legal advice and not a court form. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed attorney where you live. More free downloads are on the free templates page.