Parenting time brings up a lot of emotions, especially when you are trying to protect your child and still keep the other parent involved. If you have filed a divorce or custody case, you may be unsure about what is fair, what Minnesota courts expect, or how your child’s age affects the schedule. Many parents come to us feeling the same mix of confusion and pressure.
We guide families with our expertise every day. You deserve clear answers, not legal jargon. Let’s check how parenting time works at different stages of childhood and what you can do right now if you need support or a Minnesota child custody lawyer who understands local courts.
If you need help building a plan that protects your child and your relationship with them, contact us today.
Minnesota law on parenting time
Minnesota law gives parents the right to “parenting time” so a child can stay connected with both parents, unless there is a safety concern.
In simple terms, this law says:
- Courts want both parents to stay involved.
- Parenting time must support the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs.
- Schedules must be reasonable and age-appropriate.
For example, a new-born usually needs shorter, more frequent visits. A teenager may prefer longer blocks of time and more independence. The law gives judges flexibility so they can tailor the plan to your child’s stage of life.
Situations in families
Most parents want the same thing: a schedule that helps their child feel safe, loved, and connected. Still, emotions can run high.
We see common patterns:
- New parents worry about overnight visits with very young children.
- Parents of school-aged kids worry about homework, routines, and transitions.
- Parents of teenagers worry about their child’s growing independence.
These concerns are normal. Courts understand that children have different needs at different ages, and they expect parents to adjust their expectations based on development, not on personal frustration or conflict.
Parenting time by age: Guides for each stage
These are general patterns Minnesota courts often consider. Your case may be different based on safety issues, distance between homes, or your child’s unique needs.
1. Infants (0 to 18 months)
- Short but frequent visits
- Daily or every-other-day contact is common
- Overnights may be limited at first
- Predictable routines are important
2. Toddlers (18 months to 3 years)
- Longer visits with increasing consistency
- Gradual introduction of overnights
- Smooth transitions and stable environments matter
3. Preschoolers (3 to 5 years)
- Regular overnights with both parents
- Weekend blocks become more common
- Communication between parents plays a big role
4. School-aged children (6 to 12 years)
- Week-on, week-off or 5-2-2-5 schedules
- Balance between school routines and parent involvement
- Kids benefit from stability and clear expectations
5. Teenagers (13+ years)
- More flexibility and input from the teen
- Longer parenting-time blocks
- Activities, school, and relationships matter
- Courts encourage cooperation, not control
If the system feels confusing at any stage, you can reach out, and we will walk through your options together.
Determining parenting time in Minnesota court
Minnesota courts use a “best interests of the child” analysis. When deciding parenting time, judges consider:
- The child’s age and developmental stage
- The child’s physical and emotional needs
- Each parent’s ability to provide care
- The child’s attachment to each parent
- The stability of each home
- Safety concerns or past harm
- Each parent’s willingness to support the other parent’s relationship with the child
Courts expect parents to work together when possible. They also expect parenting-time plans to adapt as the child grows.
If you want to understand how these factors might apply to your case, a Minnesota child custody lawyer can help you review them in detail.
Mistakes made during parenting-time disputes
These mistakes often harm your case, even if you did not intend to cause issues.
- Speaking negatively about the other parent in front of the child
- Withholding the child during disagreements
- Ignoring the child’s schedule, sleep patterns, or school needs
- Refusing reasonable schedule adjustments
- Not documenting concerns or important events
- Sending emotional or aggressive messages
- Assuming your child will “choose” your side in court
Avoiding these mistakes helps you protect your relationship with your child and strengthens your case.
How Martine Law helps you protect your parenting time
Parenting-time cases can feel deeply personal, and you deserve guidance from someone who understands Minnesota law and local courts. At Martine Law, our attorneys bring years of experience helping families build schedules that work for their children at every age.
Key takeaways
- Your child’s age shapes what Minnesota courts see as a healthy parenting-time schedule.
- Focus on your child’s routines and needs, not on what feels fair to you.
- Avoid common mistakes like withholding time, negative messages, or ignoring school or sleep schedules.
- Keep records, stay calm in communication, and show you support your child’s relationship with both parents.
- If the process feels overwhelming, reach out for help. A clear plan can protect your child and your time with them.
We will walk with you every step of the way. You have 24/7 access to legal assistance. If you need a parenting time attorney in Minnesota who understands what your child needs at every age, reach out today.