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What Is Make-Up Parenting Time?

Missed parenting time creates instant emotion. One parent thinks extra time is obviously owed. The other parent thinks nothing in the agreement requires it.

Make-up parenting time is the extra time given to replace time a parent missed or was denied. But whether you actually get it depends on the wording of the agreement and the reason the time was lost.

Not Every Missed Visit Automatically Creates Make-Up Time

Some agreements expressly provide make-up time. Others are silent. Some only allow it when one parent wrongfully denied the other’s scheduled time, not when time was missed because of illness, weather, or the parent’s own conflict.

Search for the Actual Clause

Look for words like make-up time, missed parenting time, denied visitation, exchange failure, or schedule adjustments. Some agreements hide the rule in enforcement or dispute sections instead of the main schedule.

Important: “We’ll make it up later” is not the same as a clear contractual right to replacement time.

Reason Matters

If one parent unilaterally cancels or blocks parenting time, the case for make-up time is stronger. If the child is sick, the reason may be more complicated. If a parent simply chose not to exercise time, the agreement may not grant a do-over at all.

How Make-Up Time Is Usually Handled

Good agreements say when replacement time must occur, who chooses the date, and whether regular obligations still apply. If the agreement says nothing, that silence itself becomes the conflict.

Need to know whether your agreement gives make-up time?

Upload it and ask how missed or denied parenting time is handled. ReadMyCustody will find the exact language.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.