Check the actual rule
For example, Illinois law allows courts to consider a childcare right of first refusal in specified circumstances. It is not a universal automatic rule. Your jurisdiction and the wording of your arrangement matter.
Resolve the practical questions
Look for the length of an absence that triggers an offer, exceptions, notice, response time, and transport. If any part is unclear, get appropriate clarification before treating a babysitter or family member’s help as a breach.
Keep the request explicit
A message should identify the child, date, care window, and response needed. After you agree on a change, record the care dates in CoFam.
Does every short absence require an offer?
Do not assume that. Check the specific rule and its exceptions.
Will CoFam send these offers automatically?
No. The adults need to follow their agreed process.
Turn an agreed schedule into dates you can both follow. → Explore schedule examples