Parenting Time in Ontario

When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important questions is:

Who will the children live with and how much time will they spend with each parent?

Under Ontario family law, the concept formerly known as "access" is now referred to as Parenting Time. Parenting Time addresses when a child is in the care of each parent and how parents maintain meaningful relationships with their children following separation.

Ontario courts recognize that children generally benefit from having a meaningful relationship with both parents whenever it is safe and appropriate to do so.

What Is Parenting Time?

Parenting Time refers to the time during which a child is in the care of a parent.

During Parenting Time, a parent generally has responsibility for:

• Day-to-day decisions;

• Daily routines;

• Meals and activities;

• Transportation;

• Supervision and care.

Parenting Time does not necessarily determine who makes major decisions regarding the child's education, healthcare, or religion. Those issues are governed by Decision-Making Responsibility.

How Is Parenting Time Determined?

There is no automatic formula.

Ontario courts determine Parenting Time based on the best interests of the child.

Factors may include:

• The child's age and needs;

• Existing parenting arrangements;

• The child's relationship with each parent;

• Each parent's caregiving history;

• Stability of the child's environment;

• Ability of the parents to cooperate;

• Family violence concerns.

Every family is unique.

What Types of Parenting Time Arrangements Exist?

Common arrangements include:

Equal Parenting Time

The child spends approximately equal time with each parent.

Examples include:

• Week-on/week-off schedules;

• 2-2-3 schedules;

• Other shared parenting arrangements.

Primary Residence Arrangements

The child primarily resides with one parent while spending scheduled Parenting Time with the other parent.

Flexible Parenting Arrangements

Some families successfully use flexible schedules that accommodate work, school, and extracurricular activities.

The most appropriate arrangement depends on the specific needs of the child.

Does One Parent Automatically Receive More Time?

No.

Ontario courts do not automatically favour mothers or fathers.

The court's primary concern is the child's best interests.

Each parent's role, involvement, and ability to meet the child's needs are considered.

Can Parenting Time Be Restricted?

In some situations, yes.

The court may impose restrictions where there are concerns regarding:

• Family violence;

• Substance abuse;

• Child safety;

• Mental health issues;

• Abduction risks.

Restrictions may include supervised Parenting Time or other protective measures where appropriate.

What Happens If a Parent Denies Parenting Time?

A parent generally cannot deny Parenting Time without a valid legal reason.

Repeated interference with Parenting Time may result in:

• Court proceedings;

• Enforcement orders;

• Changes to parenting arrangements;

• Cost consequences.

Parents should seek legal advice before unilaterally withholding a child from the other parent.

Can Parenting Time Be Changed?

Yes.

Parenting arrangements may be modified when there has been a material change in circumstances.

Examples include:

• Relocation;

• Changes in work schedules;

• Educational needs;

• Safety concerns;

• Significant changes affecting the child.

The court will again consider the best interests of the child.

Why Is Parenting Time Important?

Research consistently demonstrates that children generally benefit from meaningful involvement by both parents whenever safe and appropriate.

Parenting Time provides opportunities for:

• Emotional bonding;

• Stability;

• Consistency;

• Ongoing parental involvement;

• Healthy child development.

Well-designed parenting schedules often reduce conflict and promote positive outcomes for children.

Conclusion

Parenting Time is one of the most important issues addressed in Ontario family law. Every family is different, and there is no single schedule that works for everyone. The court's focus remains the best interests of the child and the promotion of healthy parent-child relationships.

If you have questions regarding Parenting Time, parenting plans, decision-making responsibility, or any other parenting issue, contact Wei Wang Law Professional Corporation to discuss your specific circumstances.

About Wei Wang Law Professional Corporation

Wei Wang Law Professional Corporation focuses exclusively on Family Law matters in Ontario and is located in North York, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. For contact information and office details, please search "Wei Wang Law Professional Corporation" on Google.

Copyright Notice

© Wei Wang Law Professional Corporation. This article is an original work of Wei Wang Law Professional Corporation. Reproduction, distribution, or republication is permitted only with proper attribution to the original source. Unauthorized use without attribution is prohibited.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as legal advice for any specific situation. Every family law matter is unique. Readers should consult a qualified family lawyer regarding their individual circumstances before making legal decisions.

For legal advice or assistance with Family Law matters in Ontario, please contact Wei Wang Law Professional Corporation。👇