Parenting time orders are designed to help separated or divorced parents create structure around when and how their child spends time with each parent. But for many families, especially those new to the legal process, these orders can feel confusing or overwhelming.

Understanding the basics of your Indiana parenting time order can help reduce conflict, improve communication, and give your child the stability they need.

What Is a Parenting Time Order?

A parenting time order is a legal document that outlines when a child will be with each parent. It may include weekly schedules, holiday arrangements, transportation responsibilities, and instructions for communication.

In Indiana, these orders are often based on the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines (IPTG), which provide a standard framework for parenting time when parents live apart.

Key Components of a Parenting Time Order

Every order may look slightly different, but most include the following:

• Regular Weekly Schedule (e.g., every other weekend, midweek visits)
• Holiday Schedule (alternating holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.)
• Spring, Summer, and Fall Break Plans
• Pick-Up and Drop-Off Times/Locations
• Communication Guidelines (calls, texts, video chats)

It’s important to read the entire order carefully. Even small details—like which parent transports the child or how far in advance changes must be requested—can affect how smoothly things go.

Follow the Order—Even If It’s Not Perfect

You might not agree with every part of your parenting time order, but until it’s legally changed, both parents are expected to follow it. Ignoring or altering the order without agreement from the other parent (or the court) can lead to legal consequences.

If the current plan no longer works, speak with your attorney or consider mediation to create a new agreement you can both live with.

What If the Other Parent Isn’t Following the Order?

It’s frustrating when parenting time doesn’t happen as ordered. Missed visits, late arrivals, or frequent last-minute changes can create tension.

Here are some tips:

• Document each incident calmly and clearly (dates, times, what happened).
• Avoid arguing in front of the child.
• Try to resolve the issue directly—but respectfully—with your co-parent.
• If that doesn’t work, you may need to seek legal advice or consider mediation.

Common Misunderstandings About Parenting Time Orders

• “We made a verbal agreement, so we don’t need to follow the court order.”
  → Verbal agreements are not legally binding. Always get changes in writing.
• “I don’t have to let them go if the child doesn’t want to.”
  → Parenting time is a legal right. If there’s a concern, talk to a professional—not just your child.
• “They didn’t pay child support, so I’m withholding parenting time.”
  → Child support and parenting time are separate legal issues. Denying time could backfire in court.

Final Thoughts

Your parenting time order is more than a schedule—it’s a tool to help your child experience stability, routine, and connection with both parents. Understanding and respecting the order (even when it's inconvenient) sends your child a clear message: their needs come first.

At Hope For Our Future, LLC, I support families in navigating parenting time with empathy, communication, and structure. If you’re having trouble following the order or need help working through disagreements, parenting coordination or mediation can help you find a better path forward.

This post was written by Chelle Hendershot, who is a dedicated Mediator, Guardian ad Litem, and Parenting Coordinator at Hope For Our Future, LLC, with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate through life's most challenging moments. This post is not intended to be legal advice and is for marketing purposes only.

Copyright © 2025 Hope For Our Future, LLC. All rights reserved. This blog post may be shared, copied, and distributed in its entirety for non-commercial purposes, provided that proper attribution is given, and no modifications are made to the original work.

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