A short practical checklist for the next changeover. Use the arrangements that apply to your family and follow any existing order, agreement or professional guidance. This sheet organises details; it does not change an arrangement or give legal advice.
1. Check the plan
- Date and exact time: ____________________
- Agreed place: ____________________
- Who is collecting and who is dropping off: ____________________
- Which confirmation, schedule or plan am I checking? ____________________
- Is a practical detail still unconfirmed? Ask through the agreed communication route when appropriate; do not assume a proposed change is agreed.
2. Pack what needs to travel
- School bag, homework or activity items required for the next care period.
- Clothing and personal items that need to go between homes.
- Relevant care instructions already agreed or supplied by the appropriate professional.
- Any other specific item: ____________________
3. Keep the update focused
If an update is useful and appropriate, include the practical fact and the action needed. For example: “The school bag is ready. The library book is in the front pocket.” Avoid bundling unrelated issues into the handover message.
- One practical update needed: ____________________
- One detail requiring confirmation: ____________________
4. After the handover
- Check whether an agreed practical task remains, such as returning an item.
- If a note is useful, record what you directly observed, the date/time and any relevant source. Keep guesses separate from observations.
- Keep the list and any personal detail in a location you control. Share only what is necessary with the intended person.
Fictional example: Friday, October 16, 4:00 p.m.; agreed library entrance; Parent A collecting; school bag and swimming kit travelling. The example illustrates fields, not a suggested arrangement.
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Prepared by Custody Companion. Updated October 14, 2026. General organisation information; not legal advice. If a handover raises a safety concern, follow the applicable safety plan and obtain appropriate local professional help rather than using this checklist to decide what to do.