Duohem5-2 Custody Schedule: Weekdays and Weekends
The 5-2 schedule keeps school days in one home and weekends in the other. The rotation repeats every 7 days: home 1 has 5 nights and home 2 has 2 nights, creating a 71/29 split and 2 handovers per cycle.
The first four weeks
Home 1Home 2
How it works
Starting on a Monday, the child spends Monday through Friday in home 1, for 5 nights. The first handover usually takes place at the end of the school week, at a time both parents agree works well.
The child spends Saturday and Sunday in home 2, for 2 nights. The second handover takes place at the end of the weekend, so the next Monday begins again in home 1 and the 7-day pattern repeats.
Your calendar
Change the start date to match your family. Days in each home are coloured.
Home 1Home 2
What parents like
- The child has a predictable weekly rhythm that is easy to remember.
- School-week routines, homework, and weekday activities can stay centered in one home.
- The weekend parent has a regular block of uninterrupted time.
- There are only 2 handovers in each 7-day cycle.
What to think about
- Home 2 has only 2 nights each cycle, which may feel like a short visit.
- The schedule gives one parent most school-night responsibilities.
- Friday and Sunday handovers can be tiring if travel, activities, or timing are difficult.
Works best for
This schedule may suit many families when one home is close to school and weekday routines, and the other parent is reliably available on weekends. It can work best when both homes support consistent routines and the handovers are straightforward.
Tips
- Agree on clear handover times, locations, and who handles transport.
- Keep school items, clothing, medication, and comfort objects easy to access in both homes.
- Use a shared calendar for school events, activities, appointments, and weekend plans.
- Review how the schedule feels over time and discuss adjustments calmly as the child's needs change.
Questions and answers
What is a 5-2 custody schedule?
It is a repeating 7-day schedule in which the child spends 5 nights in home 1 and 2 nights in home 2. In the usual Monday-start pattern, weekdays are in home 1 and the weekend is in home 2.
How many handovers are there in a 5-2 schedule?
There are 2 handovers per 7-day cycle: one when the child moves from home 1 to home 2 for the weekend, and one when the child returns to home 1.
Is a 5-2 schedule a 50/50 arrangement?
No. Home 1 has 5 of the 7 nights and home 2 has 2, creating a 71/29 split.
How can parents make a 5-2 schedule easier for a child?
Keep handover times predictable, share important information promptly, maintain familiar routines in both homes, and make sure the child has what they need in each place.
General information, not legal advice. What is best depends on your children and your situation.