What decisions count as 'major decisions' under decision-making responsibility?
Major decisions covered by decision-making responsibility typically include: choice of school and school type (public, private, French immersion, Montessori); significant healthcare decisions such as elective surgery, mental health treatment, or medication for a chronic condition; religious upbringing and participation in religious education or ceremonies; and enrollment in significant extracurricular activities that affect the child's schedule, costs, and lifestyle.
Day-to-day decisions made during a parent's parenting time are not covered — these include bedtime routines, meals, playdates, minor injuries treated at walk-in clinics, and what the child wears. Those choices belong to whichever parent has the child at that time, regardless of decision-making arrangements.
The line between a "major" and a "day-to-day" decision is not always obvious. Parents sometimes disagree about whether a particular extracurricular activity or medical referral is major enough to require joint agreement. If your parenting plan does not define the categories, it is worth asking a lawyer to help clarify the language.
Key takeaways
- Major decisions include schooling, significant healthcare, religion, and major activities.
- Day-to-day decisions during parenting time belong to the parent who has the child.
- The line between major and day-to-day is sometimes disputed.
- Clear definitions in your parenting agreement prevent conflict later.