Can I Change the Visitation Schedule Now That My Child Is Older?

 Posted on December 08, 2025 in Child Custody

As children grow, their schedules, interests, and needs evolve. A parenting time plan that worked when your child was in elementary school may no longer fit a teenager’s busy routine. When that happens, it may be time for a change. Our knowledgeable DuPage County, IL child custody lawyer can help you petition for modification and ensure you have sufficient evidence that the change would benefit your child.

Why Might You Need To Change Parenting Time as a Child Ages?

Some reasons you might need to change a parenting time plan as your child grows older include:

• Your child’s school or extracurricular schedule conflicts with the current parenting plan.

• One parent’s work hours or living situation has changed in a way that affects their availability.

• Your child has new social, emotional, or academic needs that require schedule adjustments.

• A teenager’s part-time job or driving privileges make the old plan impractical.

• The current plan no longer supports a balanced relationship with both parents.

Under 750 ILCS 5/602.7, Illinois law encourages parents to develop flexible parenting plans that support their child’s needs as they mature. If your child’s schedule or circumstances have shifted in a way that makes the old plan impractical, it may be time to consider a modification.

Can We Just Change the Visitation Schedule Without Going to Court in Illinois?

Parents can make small, short-term adjustments informally. For example, switching weekends or trading holidays may be fine as long as both parents agree. Flexibility helps families manage busy schedules and unexpected events.

However, permanent changes should always be approved by the court. If one parent later disagrees, the court will enforce the original order, not the informal arrangement. Under 750 ILCS 5/607.5, either parent can request enforcement if the other fails to follow a valid court order. Formalizing any long-term changes is the best way to avoid future issues.

Requesting a Modification of Parenting Time in Illinois

To change a parenting time order, you must file a petition to modify parenting time with the circuit court that issued your current plan. The petition should explain what has changed and how the adjustment benefits your child.

If both parents agree, the process is much quicker. The judge will review the new plan to ensure that it aligns with the child’s best interests. If there is disagreement, the court may require mediation or a formal hearing. You can strengthen your case with documents like updated school schedules, proof of job changes, or statements from teachers or counselors.

Modifications can also be temporary. A short-term change may be approved to handle specific issues, such as a child’s medical condition. The key is showing that the change helps maintain consistency and supports your child’s needs.

Contact Our Wheaton, IL Parenting Time Attorney Today

At Andrew Cores Family Law Group, we focus on keeping your goals at the center of every strategy we develop. As experienced trial attorneys, we know that careful preparation leads to stronger results both inside and outside the courtroom. We believe in the value of negotiation and alternative dispute resolution whenever possible. Many parenting issues can be resolved through open communication and mediation, helping families move forward with less conflict.

To learn more about modifying parenting time, contact our office at 630-871-1002 to speak with a DuPage County, IL child custody lawyer today.