"Parenting time" is the term now used to refer to the time that a child spends living in the care of a parent. In most cases, Illinois courts prefer arrangements in which children are able to spend significant time with both parents. Sometimes, parents will agree on equal parenting time, but the schedule can vary based on a number of factors including school and work schedules, the location of each parent's home, and the preferences of you, your children, and the other parent.