Understanding the New 2022 Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines: What Parents Need to Know

Understanding the New 2022 Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines: What Parents Need to Know

As of January 1, 2022, a new set of parenting time guidelines will take effect in the State of Indiana. These guidelines are meant to provide clarity and consistency for parents, attorneys, and courts when it comes to determining the appropriate amount of time a child should spend with each parent. Here’s what parents need to know about these updated guidelines:

Overview of Changes

The new 2022 Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines (IPTG) have undergone significant changes. Some of the notable changes include the following:

• A clearer definition of parenting time that includes overnights, weekends, holidays, and other specified periods of time;
• Age-specific guidelines for children up to the age of 18 years;
• An increased emphasis on the use of technology to keep parents and children connected;
• New provisions for the creation of a parenting time schedule that accommodates the child’s need for a predictable routine and allows for frequent and continuing contact with both parents;
• Additional guidelines for long-distance parenting plans;
• A revised process for modifying parenting time orders based on changes in a parent’s circumstances or the child’s best interests.

Age-Specific Guidelines

One of the most significant changes in the 2022 IPTG is the introduction of age-specific parenting time guidelines. These guidelines are intended to reflect the changing needs of a child as they grow and develop. Here’s a brief overview of the age-specific guidelines:

• 0-18 months: Frequent and short (2-4 hour) visits with the non-custodial parent;
• 18-36 months: Frequent contact, typically through supervised visits or exchanges, with an aim to build a strong relationship with the non-custodial parent;
• 3-5 years: 50/50 parenting time schedule is generally not recommended, but the non-custodial parent should have regular and meaningful time with the child;
• 6-8 years: Parenting time should be more flexible and may include overnights and weekends;
• 9-12 years: Parenting time should be consistent and include overnight stays and longer vacations;
• 13-14 years: Parenting time should continue to be consistent, and the child’s preferences should be considered;
• 15-17 years: Parenting time should be designed to support the child’s normal activities within the context of the family;

Using Technology

With the increased use of technology in our daily lives, the 2022 IPTG has incorporated new provisions that encourage parents to use technology to facilitate communication with their children when they are not together. For instance, parents can use email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and social media to keep in touch with their children. However, the guidelines also suggest that parents establish clear expectations for the use of technology in parenting time and take steps to make sure that the child’s privacy is protected.

Crafting a Parenting Time Schedule

The 2022 IPTG outline the steps that parents should take when crafting a parenting time schedule. According to the guidelines, a good parenting time schedule should meet the following criteria:

• Provides a predictable routine;
• Is flexible;
• Allows for frequent and continuing contact with both parents;
• Is age-appropriate;
• Is specific and detailed;
• Supports the child’s social activities, education, and other activities.

Modifications

Finally, the 2022 IPTG provide new guidelines for modifying parenting time orders. According to the guidelines, parents can seek to modify a parenting time order if there has been a substantial change in circumstances that affects the best interests of the child. Examples of such changes might include a parent relocating to another city or state, a child’s unique needs, or changes in the parent’s work schedule.

Conclusion

The new 2022 Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines are intended to provide clarity and consistency for parents, attorneys, and courts when it comes to determining the appropriate amount of time a child should spend with each parent. These updated guidelines provide more age-specific details, emphasize the use of technology to keep parents and children connected, and outline the key elements of a good parenting time schedule. As a result, parents can expect to have a clearer understanding of their parenting time rights and responsibilities, which can help them create a positive and healthy environment for their children.

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