The short answer
A useful holiday plan sets out dates, times, and how exchanges work. Start by reading your existing orders before making holiday or travel commitments.
Planning questions for California parenting arrangements. This guide does not change an existing order or grant travel permission.
Read the whole schedule
Look for separate provisions about holidays, school breaks, birthdays, and vacations. Check how those provisions interact with the regular weekly schedule. If the wording is unclear, get help interpreting it rather than assuming one provision overrides another.
Work through the practical details
- Which dates and start and end times are covered?
- Where will the exchange happen, and who handles transportation?
- Will the schedule alternate in odd and even years?
- What notice and information are needed for vacation plans?
- How will school calendars and travel time fit together?
Use official tools to describe the plan
California Courts identifies the Children’s Holiday Schedule Attachment, FL-341(C), as a form for setting out holiday and vacation arrangements. Its detailed-order guidance also discusses notice and travel provisions. Ask which forms and approval steps fit your case.
When plans do not match the order
Ask how to document an agreement or request an appropriate change. Do not treat a text conversation or this checklist as authority to disregard an order.
Official sources
Read the current instructions at the source. Requirements can change.
Sources checked November 3, 2026. General information only; confirm current requirements with the official sources and get advice about your circumstances.