How to Create a Child Visitation Schedule That’s Fair to Both Parents in Austin, TX

One of the most important parts of a custody agreement in Texas is the visitation schedule—often called a “possession and access schedule.” This schedule outlines when each parent has physical time with the child and helps provide consistency, stability, and fairness.

At The Eggleston Law Firm, we help parents in Austin and Central Texas navigate custody schedules in a way that prioritizes the child’s well-being and supports healthy co-parenting.

Texas Standard Possession Order (SPO)

In Texas, the Standard Possession Order (SPO) is the default visitation schedule the court uses when parents can’t agree. It’s typically applied when parents live within 100 miles of each other and provides:

• 1st, 3rd, and 5th weekends of the month
• Thursday evenings during the school year
• Alternating holidays
• Extended time in the summer

The SPO works well for many families, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. Parents can agree to modify or customize the schedule based on their child’s needs and each parent’s availability.

Customizing a Fair Visitation Schedule

If both parents are committed to creating a schedule that works for everyone, they can propose an alternate plan to the court. Factors to consider include:

• Each parent’s work schedule
• The child’s school, extracurriculars, and routine
• Distance between households
• The child’s age and emotional needs

Custom plans might include:

• Alternating weeks with each parent
• 2-2-3 schedules (two days with one parent, two with the other, then alternating weekends)
• Extended weekends or longer holiday periods depending on work schedules

What matters most is that the schedule is clear, consistent, and focused on the child’s best interests.

When Parents Live Far Apart

If parents live more than 100 miles apart, Texas courts may use a Modified SPO, which adjusts for travel time and reduces frequent exchanges. In these cases, the non-custodial parent may get:

• One weekend per month
• Longer holiday and summer periods

Courts aim to maintain meaningful relationships with both parents, even when distance is a challenge.

Tips for Successful Co-Parenting

Creating a fair visitation schedule is only part of the parenting puzzle. For the schedule to work long-term, co-parents should also focus on:

• Open and respectful communication
• Using shared calendars or parenting apps
• Being flexible when needed (while still respecting the court order)
• Avoiding negative talk about the other parent in front of the child

When both parents are committed to working together, even the most complex custody arrangements can run smoothly.

Work With an Experienced Austin Family Law Attorney

Whether you’re working through a divorce, separation, or modifying an existing agreement, it’s wise to get help from a knowledgeable family law attorney. At The Eggelston Law Firm, we’ve helped families across Austin and Central Texas create fair, enforceable visitation schedules that reflect their unique needs.

We’ll help you:

• Understand your rights under Texas law
• Draft a proposed schedule that puts your child first
• Present your case effectively in court, if needed

Additional Resources :

Standard Possision Order Video FAQ

FAQs About Visitation Schedules in Texas

If you’re creating or modifying a child visitation schedule in Austin or anywhere in Central Texas, the team at The Eggleston Law Firm is here to help. We understand the emotional and legal complexity of custody issues—and we’re ready to help you create a schedule that’s fair, clear, and centered on your child’s well-being.

📞 Schedule a consultation today