What is the term used to describe the time that a guardian spends with a child?

The term "parenting time" refers to the time that a guardian, often a parent, spends with a child, particularly in the context of custody arrangements. This concept is crucial in family law as it outlines the schedule and responsibilities regarding a child's care and companionship. Parenting time not only indicates the physical presence of the guardian with the child but also encompasses the emotional and developmental importance of that relationship.

In legal contexts, especially following divorce or separation, parenting time arrangements are established to ensure that children maintain a meaningful relationship with both parents or guardians. These arrangements can vary widely based on the specific circumstances of the family, but they always prioritize the best interests of the child.

Other terms like visitation generally refer to the time a non-custodial parent spends with the child, and while they may sometimes be interchangeable with parenting time, they tend to emphasize different aspects of custody. Recreational time is not a standard term recognized in family law regarding custody or parenting arrangements. Therefore, parenting time is the most appropriate term used in this context.