While custody laws in Kansas and Missouri differ, the goal remains the same: to ensure children of divorced and separated parents have a stable environment where they can thrive. Legally, this is known as serving the “best interests of the child.”


At Shea Stevens Law, LLC, we help families throughout the Kansas City metro area, including Overland Park and surrounding communities, determine what that looks like based on the unique circumstances of each family. In many cases, this means maintaining meaningful relationships with both parents. However, how that is structured can vary. Parents who are able to set aside their differences and focus on their children often achieve the best long-term outcomes.

What Goes Into A Parenting Plan?

Physical Custody And Parenting Time

When most people hear the term “custody,” they think of physical custody—where children live most of the time. In many cases, parents share joint custody, but that does not necessarily mean children move back and forth every week. Instead, it reflects meaningful involvement from both parents.


Because parenting schedules can vary widely, it is important to create a detailed plan. Families in Kansas City, Overland Park, and surrounding areas should consider:


  • Whether the school-year schedule differs from the summer schedule
  • How holidays and school vacations will be handled
  • Which days are considered holidays (such as birthdays, Mother’s Day, or Father’s Day)
  • How will extended vacations with the children be managed
  • How schedule changes will be communicated


A clear and structured parenting plan helps reduce conflict and provides consistency for both parents and children.

Being A Parent, Jointly

Another key component of a parenting plan is legal custody, which outlines how major decisions about a child’s upbringing will be made. Legal custody ensures that both parents maintain an active role, even if parenting time is not equal.


A parenting plan may address:


  • Family values and household rules
  • Educational decisions
  • Religious upbringing
  • Medical and dental care
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Decisions that require input from both parents


Plans may also include additional details, such as what constitutes an emergency and how communication with schools, doctors, and other providers will be handled.

Your Plan Is Meant To Be Modified

A well-structured parenting plan serves as a long-term guide, but children’s needs change over time.


Parents may agree to informal adjustments; however, to make those changes enforceable under Kansas or Missouri law, the parenting plan must be formally modified through the court. Courts typically approve modifications when there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as relocation or other major life changes.


At Shea Stevens Law, LLC, we assist families throughout the Kansas City metro, including Overland Park and nearby communities, with parenting plan modifications and enforcement.

Laying The Groundwork For A Successful Future

Your parenting plan plays a critical role in shaping your family’s future. We help parents throughout Kansas City, Overland Park, and surrounding areas create clear, practical plans that support long-term stability.


To discuss your parenting plan or custody concerns with an experienced Kansas City child custody attorney, contact Shea Stevens Law, LLC, at 913-242-7522 to schedule a consultation today.