Family Law Lawyer in Vaughan, GTA

Long-Distance Parenting Plans: What You Need to Know

This is general information and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Contact a family lawyer to understand your rights and obligations

After separation or divorce, it’s not uncommon for parents to move in different directions, sometimes across provinces or even international borders. One parent may remain in Ontario while the other relocates for work, family, or personal reasons.

When children are involved, long-distance parenting presents real challenges. But with a well-structured parenting plan, both parents can remain active participants in their child’s life, no matter the distance.

Crafting the Right Parenting Time Schedule

Long-distance parenting means fewer transitions are possible, especially during the school year. It’s rarely feasible to split parenting time 50/50 in these cases, but that doesn’t mean the non-residential parent is sidelined.

Here are some common options for parenting time when distance is a factor:

• One weekend per month 

• Week long visits every few months

• Alternating long weekends and holidays

• Extended summer visits, often four to six weeks or more

  
  

The key is designing a schedule that fits your child’s age, school commitments, and comfort level with travel, while allowing both parents to maintain a meaningful bond.

Travel Logistics: Who, How, and When

Long-distance parenting requires clear travel arrangements. Addressing these questions early helps avoid confusion and potential conflict down the road:

• Who is responsible for transportation costs?

• How will the child travel? (Car, plane, train, alone or accompanied?)

• Where will exchanges take place?

• Are additional travel documents required?

  
  

If one parent chooses to travel to the child, your plan should also address expectations around frequency, notice, and accommodation arrangements.

Staying Connected Between Visits

Being apart from a child doesn’t mean losing touch. Thanks to technology, it's easier than ever for non-custodial parents to stay present in their child’s life—even from a distance.

A good parenting plan should include a communication schedule, such as:

• Video or phone calls on specific days and times

• Reasonable restrictions on call hours (for example, not during school or late at night)

• Unlimited age-appropriate texting or emailing

• An agreement not to monitor or interfere with private communication

Consistent, unmonitored communication supports the parent-child bond and reassures the child that both parents remain involved.

Legal Considerations and Decision-Making

In addition to logistics, your long-distance parenting plan should address broader legal and practical issues, such as:

• Major decision-making responsibilities (education, healthcare, religion)

• Relocation notice requirements

• Emergency contact and procedures

• Dispute resolution methods (for example, mediation before court involvement)

• Scheduled reviews of the parenting plan as the child grows or family dynamics change

  
  

If international travel is involved, ensure you comply with all legal requirements, including those under the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction, where applicable.

Seeking Legal Advice 

There is no “one-size-fits-all” parenting plan, especially when long distances are involved. At Majoka Law, we help parents navigate complex custody arrangements with compassion and clarity, ensuring the best interests of the child remain at the forefront.