# Handover checklist

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.

Custody Companion brings parenting schedules, communication and important records into one workspace. Explore the free core product at [custodycompanion.org](https://custodycompanion.org/register) and see [current features](https://custodycompanion.org/features).

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.