Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines for Infants and Toddlers: Practical Strategies for Co-Parents

When establishing parenting time schedules for infants and toddlers, Indiana courts follow specific guidelines to ensure a child’s developmental needs are met. Infants require frequent but short visits, while toddlers gradually transition to extended parenting time, including overnights.

This guide outlines:

• Indiana’s official parenting time schedule for infants (birth to 36 months).

• Legal considerations for overnight visits.

• Co-parenting strategies for successful implementation.

For legal guidance on your custody case, contact Vining Legal at (317) 759-3225.

Understanding Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines

The Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines emphasize predictability and consistency in parenting time arrangements. The child’s best interests always come first, with courts prioritizing:

• Stable bonding opportunities with both parents.

• Preserving feeding and sleeping schedules.

• Minimizing distress caused by prolonged separations.

While the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines provide a structured framework for parenting schedules, parents are free to agree on a different arrangement that better suits their child’s unique needs—as long as both parties agree and the arrangement serves the child’s best interests. Courts generally encourage cooperative co-parenting, allowing flexibility in crafting custom schedules that accommodate work hours, travel, breastfeeding, or other factors. However, if disagreements arise, the guidelines serve as a default standard that courts may enforce to ensure fairness and consistency.

Official Indiana Parenting Time Schedule for Infants

1. Parenting Time in Early Infancy (Birth through 9 Months)

(A) Birth through Age 4 Months

1. Three (3) non-consecutive “days” per week of two (2) hours in length.

2. All scheduled holidays of two (2) hours in length.

3. Overnight parenting time is permitted only if the noncustodial parent has exercised regular care responsibilities for the child. If approved, overnights are limited to one (1) 24-hour period per week.

(B) Age 5 Months through Age 9 Months

1. Three (3) non-consecutive “days” per week of three (3) hours in length.

2. All scheduled holidays of three (3) hours in length.

3. Overnight parenting time is permitted only if the noncustodial parent has demonstrated regular caregiving responsibilities but may not exceed one (1) 24-hour period per week.

2. Parenting Time in Later Infancy (10 to 36 Months)

(A) Age 10 Months through Age 12 Months

1. Three (3) non-consecutive “days” per week, with one (1) day on a non-work day for eight (8) hours.

2. All scheduled holidays for eight (8) hours.

3. Overnight parenting time is allowed only if the noncustodial parent has consistently exercised regular care but may not exceed one (1) 24-hour period per week.

(B) Age 13 Months through Age 18 Months

1. Three (3) non-consecutive “days” per week, with one (1) day on a non-work day for ten (10) hours.

2. All scheduled holidays for eight (8) hours.

3. Overnight parenting time is permitted if the noncustodial parent has maintained consistent caregiving but may not exceed one (1) 24-hour period per week.

(C) Age 19 Months through Age 36 Months

1. Alternate weekends on Saturdays for ten (10) hours and Sundays for ten (10) hours.

2. One (1) mid-week visit of three (3) hours.

3. All scheduled holidays for ten (10) hours.

4. Overnight parenting time may increase if the noncustodial parent has exercised scheduled parenting time consistently for at least nine (9) continuous months.

Special Considerations for Parenting Time Schedules

Handling Breastfeeding & Feeding Routines

• Courts strongly encourage accommodating breastfeeding schedules.

• Pumped milk should be provided where applicable.

• Frequent but short visits are generally preferred in the first six months.

Managing Separation Anxiety

• Consistent transition routines can help young children feel secure.

• Comfort objects (e.g., a favorite toy or blanket) may ease the transition between homes.

Sleep & Nap Schedules

• Parenting time should avoid disruptions to a child’s bedtime routine.

• Overnights should be introduced gradually to ensure a smooth transition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my infant have overnight visits with the noncustodial parent?

Yes, the court will consider whether or not the noncustodial parent has exercised regular caregiving responsibilities before the court order. Overnight parenting time is limited to one (1) 24-hour period per week for infants under 12 months.

2. What if we disagree on feeding or nap schedules?

Indiana courts encourage flexibility and communication between parents. If disputes arise, a family law attorney can help request modifications.

3. How does the court decide on overnight parenting time for young children?

The court considers, along with the best interests, the following:

• The child’s developmental needs.

• Each parent’s caregiving history.

• Any history of parental conflict or inconsistency.

4. Can we modify the schedule as our child grows?

Yes. Parenting time plans should evolve based on the child's needs. Parents can mutually agree on changes or seek court approval for modifications.

5. Do I need an attorney for my parenting time case?

If you are dealing with:

• Disagreements over parenting time.

• Requests for schedule modifications.

• Legal complexities regarding overnight visits.
  Consult an experienced Indiana family law attorney to protect your rights and your child’s best interests.

When to Contact an Indiana Family Law Attorney

• If modifying a parenting plan due to changing circumstances.

• If conflict arises over parenting time schedules.

• If seeking legal guidance for a custody dispute.

📞 Need Legal Advice? Contact Vining Legal

For personalized legal support in Indiana parenting time and custody cases, call Vining Legal at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation.