I am preparing for a fresh start in the New Year, with five months to go before filing for divorce. Our current custody schedule is working relatively well, but I am missing out on full weekends and Saturdays. While I enjoy having the children during the week to help with their schoolwork and they love the current rhythm, I want a schedule that includes full weekend time.

My oldest child has expressed a preference for staying at each home for at least three days, but no more than five.

I also have a major scheduling shift coming up: in 2026, I will be returning to school for 20 hours a week while working three days a week. I expect to work every weekend until May 2027.

I’m looking for advice on how to build a schedule that balances these needs.