Follow your existing parenting plan during COVID-19
It’s in your child’s best interests to follow your existing plan for parenting time if it’s safe and possible to do so. Following the existing plan gives children some normality and routine in uncertain times and helps keep them connected to both their parents.
If it’s not safe
Parenting time should be suspended if the child, a parent, or any member of either household:
- has been in contact with a person known to have COVID-19
- is ill with symptoms of COVID-19, is waiting for COVID-19 test results, or tests positive for COVID-19
If it’s not possible
Parenting time should be changed or suspended if it:
- normally happens in a public place that is currently closed, such as a community centre, mall, or restaurant
- must be supervised and the supervisor is someone who doesn’t live in the parent’s home
Try to reach a solution together
If you need to change or suspend parenting time, discuss other ways of keeping your child connected with both parents, such as with frequent phone or video calls. You might also consider arranging to make up for missed parenting time when the situation changes.
If you both agree on how to deal with parenting time, it is helpful to put your agreement in writing (though you don’t have to). You can adapt these Template Social Distancing Clauses for Parents or these Possible COVID-19 clauses to suit your situation.
- Everyone in each household must follow health precautions.
- Parents must not expose their child to the virus risk.
- Parents need to act responsibly, use common sense, communicate, and try problem-solving before going to court.
For more questions and answers, see Q&A ― Parenting.
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The court’s top priority during COVID-19 is to protect the health and wellbeing of children and families. Parents must do their part to keep everyone safe and healthy, including the following:
- Everyone in each household must follow health precautions.
- Parents must not expose their child to the virus risk.
- Parents need to act responsibly, use common sense, communicate, and try problem-solving before going to court.
Coping with Separation during COVID-19
Our publication describes the emotional aspects of separating from your spouse during the pandemic and suggests ways you and your children can cope. An extensive list of where to find support services is also included.