Creating an Illinois Parenting Plan When You Have Been the Primary Caregiver

 Posted on October 09, 2025 in Child Custody

Creating a parenting plan is one of the first steps in a child custody case. Illinois law requires parents to submit this plan to explain how they will divide time and make decisions for their child. For parents who have been the primary caregivers, there are many elements to consider. With help from experienced Orland Park, IL child custody lawyers, you can build a plan that protects your bond with your children and supports their stability.

Illinois Parenting Plan Requirements

According to 750 ILCS 5/602.10, both parents must file a parenting plan within 120 days after starting a case for the allocation of parental responsibilities, commonly known as child custody. This plan is a written agreement that explains how you and your co-parent will share time and make important decisions for your child. If you agree on everything, you can submit a plan together. If not, you each file a separate plan. The judge will review both versions to decide what is best for the child.

How Do Courts View the Primary Caregiver Role?

Illinois law recognizes that the relationship between a child and their main caregiver is important. Under 750 ILCS 5/602.7, judges must consider several factors when deciding parenting time and decision-making rights. One major factor is how much each parent has been involved in day-to-day caretaking. This includes daily tasks such as feeding, bathing, and helping with homework. It also involves things like taking your child to doctor appointments and providing emotional support.

If you have been the parent who handled most of these responsibilities, the court will pay close attention to your role. Judges want to make sure children have consistency in their care. However, Illinois law also encourages both parents to stay involved when possible. The court’s main goal is to protect your child’s emotional and physical well-being, not to favor one parent over the other.

Tips for Creating a Realistic Parenting Schedule

When building your parenting plan, focus on what works best for your child’s routine. A steady schedule helps children feel safe and adjust to new changes. Some helpful steps include:

• Matching parenting time with your child’s schedule for school, sports, and activities

• Staying flexible for holidays, birthdays, and special events

• Making sure your work hours and travel time fit the schedule

• Talking openly with your co-parent about rules and expectations

• Deciding who will make choices about school, healthcare, and activities

• Setting clear plans for pick-ups and drop-offs

• Agreeing on how to solve problems, such as using mediation if needed

• Planning how your child can talk to the other parent by phone or video call

• Keeping routines, like bedtime and homework, the same in both homes

Judges like parenting plans that show cooperation and focus on the child’s well-being.

Contact a Joliet, IL Parental Responsibilities Attorney Today

Having a lawyer who understands parenting plans can make the process easier and less stressful. At The Foray Hurst Firm, we believe every family deserves fairness and respect. Our motto, "Preserving the Dignity of Families in Transition," demonstrates our dedication to helping parents move forward with confidence.

Our attorneys are proud members of the Black Women Lawyers’ Association, the Black Bar Association of Will County, the Cook County Bar Association, and the National Bar Association. These memberships are a reflection of our dedication to professionalism, justice, and community support.

Call us at 312-702-1293 to schedule a consultation with our Orland Park, IL child custody lawyers. We can discuss how to create the perfect parenting plan for your family.