Co-parenting can often lead to conflict and miscommunication, especially if you and your ex-spouse do not get along well. In addition, staying organized with parenting schedules and tasks (e.g., child pickups and drop-offs, doctor’s appointments, child support payments, etc.) can be quite challenging.
Fortunately, there are a variety of co-parenting apps you can download on your phone, tablet, or any other smart device. These apps provide divorced parents with scheduling tools and features that keep all child-related information in one accessible place.
The following are five of the most popular co-parenting apps available:
OurFamilyWizard - The main features of this app include a shared calendar with automatic documentation logs, an expense log to track child-related expenses and reimbursements, a message board to communicate with the other parent, an “information bank” where you can input the child-related information (e.g., medical history, medications, immunizations, school schedules, emergency contacts, etc.) and a journal to detail events related to child care. You can add as many third parties as you want to have access to at no extra cost. The service costs $99 annually per parent.
2Houses - This app has similar features to OurFamilyWizard, such as an interactive calendar that both parents can access, a finance tracker to monitor shared expenses, an information bank, and a journal. The main difference is the price. A one-year subscription per family (rather than per parent) costs $10 a month.
Coparenter - This app provides more than scheduling features and non-editable messaging capabilities. Coparenter also offers an “on-demand professional” for mediation and dispute resolution, improvements to schedule organization, and drafting agreements. This app costs $199.99 annually for you and the other parent.
Cozi - Although this app was not specifically made for co-parenting, it is considered one of the best free co-parenting apps available. Cozi enables users to create and share to-do, chores, recipes, and shopping lists. When it comes to the visitation schedule, this app works well with other calendar programs, such as Google Calendar, iCal, and Outlook.
Google Calendar and Google Sheets - If you are quite savvy with Google’s tools and a master at spreadsheets, then you could use Google Suite to keep your parenting plans and tasks on track. The best thing is that Google apps are free.
If you are interested in modifying a child custody or visitation order in Chicago, IL, call the Law Offices of Jonathan Merel, P.C. at (312) 487-2795 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a phone consultation. Let our experienced legal team protect your rights and best interests from start to finish!