Colorado Child Custody: Parenting Time and Infants

Infant Parenting Plan in Colorado: What You Need to Know

When parents of an infant go through a divorce or custody matter, one of the most pressing concerns is how to structure a parenting plan for infants. Unlike cases involving older children, developing an infant parenting plan requires special consideration of the child’s need for security, stability, and bonding with both parents.

Table of Contents

1. Infant Parenting Plan in Colorado: What You Need to Know
   1. No Standard Parenting Plan for Infants in Colorado
   2. Considerations for an Infant Parenting Plan
      1. Frequent and Consistent Contact
      2. Feeding Schedules and Breastfeeding
      3. Naptime and Routine Stability
      4. Step-Up Parenting Time Schedules
   3. Seeking Professional Guidance
   4. Final Thoughts

No Standard Parenting Plan for Infants in Colorado

Colorado does not have a standard, model, or typical parenting plan for children of any age, including infants. Parenting time schedules are determined based on the best interest of the child standard, outlined in C.R.S. 14-10-124. This standard considers multiple factors, such as the child’s emotional needs, parental involvement, and the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment.

Although Adams County references parenting time guidelines from Arizona and Indiana in its trial management order, these guidelines are neither binding nor commonly referenced in Colorado courts. Parents who find these guidelines helpful may present them as suggestions, but judges and magistrates are not obligated to follow them.

Considerations for an Infant Parenting Plan

1. Frequent and Consistent Contact

It is well established that frequent contact with both parents is important for an infant’s development. If both parents have been actively involved in the child’s care before separation, overnight visits may be appropriate. Studies suggest that bedtime routines contribute to parent-child bonding, making overnight stays beneficial in certain situations.

2. Feeding Schedules and Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a common concern in custody cases involving infants, but it does not automatically prevent the non-breastfeeding parent from having frequent or overnight parenting time. Courts recognize that alternative feeding methods, such as bottle feeding with expressed milk or formula, allow both parents to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child.

3. Naptime and Routine Stability

While some parents worry that an infant’s naptime schedule may be disrupted by parenting time exchanges, courts do not view naptime as a reason to limit parenting time. Instead, they may schedule exchanges around naptime to support a stable routine.

4. Step-Up Parenting Time Schedules

If one parent has been the primary caregiver while the other has had limited involvement, the court may implement a step-up parenting plan for infants. This type of plan gradually increases parenting time as the child becomes more familiar with the non-primary parent, ensuring a smoother transition. In some cases, the court may also require the non-primary parent to take parenting classes focused on infant care.

Seeking Professional Guidance

Determining the best parenting plan for an infant can be challenging. If parents struggle to create a plan that meets their child’s needs, seeking assistance from a child therapist, parenting expert, or a court-appointed Child and Family Investigator (CFI) may provide valuable insights.

Final Thoughts

Every infant parenting plan should be tailored to the child’s unique needs, considering their bond with each parent, developmental stage, and overall well-being. While Colorado does not provide a standardized schedule, working collaboratively and keeping the child’s best interests in mind can lead to a plan that supports their healthy growth and emotional security. If you need guidance on developing a parenting plan for infants, consulting with a family law attorney can help you navigate the process effectively.