Long-Distance Parenting Plans in Florida: 4 Time-Sharing Schedules for Parents Living Over 50 Miles Apart

When parents live more than 50 miles apart in Florida, a traditional weekly time-sharing schedule is often impractical. Instead, long-distance parenting plans focus on quality over quantity—ensuring the child maintains a meaningful relationship with both parents while minimizing excessive travel disruptions.

Florida law prioritizes the child's best interests, meaning that parenting plans should be structured in a way that supports stability, education, and emotional well-being. Below are four common long-distance time-sharing plans for parents who live between 1 to 4 hours apart or even greater distances.

1. The One Weekend Per Month & Extended Breaks Plan (For Parents Living 1 to 3 Hours Apart)

Best for:

• Parents who live far enough that frequent exchanges are challenging but still within reasonable driving distance.

• Families who want to ensure the child spends extended time with both parents during school breaks.

Schedule:

• The non-custodial parent has the child one weekend per month (Friday after school to Sunday evening).

• The non-custodial parent has the child for the majority of summer break (typically 6 to 8 weeks).

• Every Spring Break and every Fall Break (rather than alternating).

• Major holidays split (e.g., one parent gets Thanksgiving, the other gets Christmas, alternating annually).

Pros:

✅ Provides consistent, meaningful visits throughout the year.

✅ Allows the child to have extended, quality time during school breaks.

✅ Reduces the stress of frequent travel.

Challenges:

❌ The custodial parent may have limited time with the child during long breaks.

❌ Travel can still be costly depending on distance.

2. The Extended Weekend & Holiday Plan (For Parents Living 2 to 4 Hours Apart)

Best for:

• Parents who live far enough that frequent travel is impractical but still within driving distance.

• Children who need extended time to bond with the non-custodial parent.

Schedule:

• The non-custodial parent has one extended weekend per month (Friday after school to Monday morning).

• The non-custodial parent gets every Spring Break and Fall Break to ensure consistent visits.

• Half of summer break (alternating every two weeks or splitting it into larger blocks).

• Major holidays alternate each year (e.g., Thanksgiving and Christmas).

Pros:

✅ Allows for longer, quality time during school breaks.

✅ Fewer transitions reduce stress for the child.

✅ Works well when children are in school full-time.

Challenges:

❌ Long gaps between visits during the school year.

❌ Travel costs may be higher if frequent flights or long drives are needed.

3. The School Year/Summer Split Plan (For Parents Living 4+ Hours Apart)

Best for:

• Parents who live far apart (out of state or a long-distance drive).

• School-aged children who need consistency during the academic year.

Schedule:

• The child resides with one parent during the school year for stability.

• The non-custodial parent has the child for every Spring Break and Fall Break.

• The non-custodial parent has the child for most or all of summer (typically 6 to 10 weeks).

• Winter Break is split or alternates each year.

Pros:

✅ Provides academic stability.

✅ Ensures meaningful, extended time during summer.

✅ Reduces frequent travel stress.

Challenges:

❌ Long stretches without in-person contact.

❌ Requires strong virtual communication to maintain relationships.

4. The Monthly Visit with Holiday & Summer Extensions Plan (For Parents in Different States or Very Long Distances Apart)

Best for:

• Parents who live too far for frequent travel (e.g., out of state).

• Older children who can handle extended stays.

Schedule:

• The child visits the non-custodial parent one weekend per month, if travel allows.

• The non-custodial parent gets every Spring Break and Fall Break.

• The child spends at least half or all of summer with the non-custodial parent.

• Major holidays alternate.

• Virtual visits are scheduled regularly.

Pros:

✅ Prioritizes long, uninterrupted time with the non-custodial parent.

✅ Works well for school-aged children.

✅ Video calls and virtual communication help maintain relationships.

Challenges:

❌ Travel costs can be expensive.

❌ Monthly visits may not always be practical.

Key Considerations for Long-Distance Parenting Plans in Florida

• Child's Age & School Schedule: Younger children may struggle with long separations, while older children can adjust better.

• Travel Costs: The plan should address how travel expenses are shared.

• Virtual Communication: Scheduled FaceTime, Zoom, or phone calls help maintain connection.

• Flexibility: Adaptability is key to making the plan work as the child grows.

Final Thoughts

Long-distance parenting can be challenging, but the right time-sharing plan ensures the child maintains a strong bond with both parents. Whether you live a few hours apart or across the country, creating a well-structured plan allows for stability while fostering meaningful relationships.

If you need help developing a long-distance parenting plan, Family Matters Law Group, P.A. can guide you through the legal process. Contact us today for a consultation.

Would you like any adjustments before posting this?