Duohem3-4-4-3 Custody Schedule
The 3-4-4-3 custody schedule is a repeating 14-day arrangement that gives each home seven nights. It follows a 50/50 rhythm with four handovers in each cycle.
The first four weeks
Home 1Home 2
How it works
Starting on a Monday, the child spends Monday through Wednesday—3 days—in home 1, then Thursday through Sunday—4 days—in home 2.
The next Monday through Thursday—4 days—is in home 1, followed by Friday through Sunday—3 days—in home 2. The rotation then starts again, creating four handovers during each 14-day cycle.
Your calendar
Change the start date to match your family. Days in each home are coloured.
Home 1Home 2
What parents like
- Provides equal time: each home has 7 nights every 14 days.
- Creates regular contact with both parents and homes.
- The longest stay is 4 days, which may feel manageable for some children.
- The repeating pattern can make planning school, activities, and childcare easier.
What to think about
- Four handovers per cycle require reliable communication and coordination.
- The schedule may feel busy for children who find transitions difficult.
- Parents may need to plan carefully around school items, clothing, activities, and special events.
Works best for
This schedule may suit many families who want an even split while keeping each stay to no more than four days. It can work best when both homes are reasonably close and parents can coordinate transitions calmly.
Tips
- Use one shared calendar to record handovers, school events, activities, and changes.
- Agree in advance where and when handovers will happen, including what to do if someone is delayed.
- Keep duplicate everyday essentials in both homes where possible.
- Review how the routine is working and make adjustments together when the child's needs change.
Questions and answers
How does the 3-4-4-3 custody schedule work?
Over 14 days, the child spends 3 days in home 1, 4 days in home 2, 4 days in home 1, and 3 days in home 2. The pattern then repeats.
Is the 3-4-4-3 schedule 50/50?
Yes. Each home has 7 nights in every 14-day cycle, creating an equal 50/50 split.
How many handovers are there in a 3-4-4-3 schedule?
There are 4 handovers in each 14-day cycle, including the transition that begins the next cycle.
What does a 3-4-4-3 schedule look like starting on Monday?
Home 1 has Monday to Wednesday, home 2 has Thursday to Sunday, home 1 has the following Monday to Thursday, and home 2 has Friday to Sunday. The next Monday, the pattern starts again with home 1.
General information, not legal advice. What is best depends on your children and your situation.