Second home list
A child settles faster when the second home already has their things in it. Pick your child's age to see what to keep in both homes, what travels with them, and what goes in a my-stuff box that is theirs alone. Print it, tick it off, add your own.
General information, not legal advice. This tool runs in your browser. Nothing you type is sent anywhere unless you choose to email yourself a link.
Second home list
Keep one in each home
Duplicates mean less packing and fewer forgotten things. You do not need everything twice: start with daily basics.
Travels back and forth
Things there is only one of, or that matter most to the child. Help younger children pack; older children can own the list.
The my-stuff box
A small box or bag in each home that belongs only to the child. Nobody else goes through it, and it does not have to be tidy.
Making the second home feel like home
Let them choose
Where they can, let children pick their bedding, a poster or where their things go. Ownership helps a new place feel like theirs.
It's their stuff, not a parent's
Things that belong to the child go where the child goes. Try not to say "that stays at your mom's" or "that's your dad's", which can put children in the middle.
Don't make them the courier
Young children should not be responsible for remembering everything. Parents can sort out forgotten items between themselves without fuss.
Same routines, different homes
Bedtime, mealtimes and homework do not have to be identical, but similar routines help children settle faster after a handover.
General information, not advice for your situation
This tool is
- A practical, printable starting list, filtered by age.
- Ideas for helping a child feel at home in both places.
- Something you can share with the other parent so you are working from the same list.
This tool isn't
- A shopping list you have to complete. Most families build up the second home over time.
- Medical or safety advice. For medicines, sleep and car seats, follow your pharmacist's, doctor's and the manufacturer's guidance.
- A parenting plan. Who buys what, and who pays, can go in your agreement.
Rules differ between provinces, territories and states, and they change. Before you rely on anything here, check it with a family lawyer, mediator or other qualified professional in your province or state.
Where this comes from
Official sources we checked on October 22, 2026.
- Public Health Agency of Canada: Because life goes on... helping children and youth live with separation and divorce A guide for parents.
- Department of Justice Canada: Parenting Plan Tool Page modified July 8, 2024.
- AFCC-Ontario Parenting Plan Guide Includes guidance on transitions and routines by age.
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