Co-parenting apps can be a useful tool for couples who have split to organise their new family arrangements as smoothly as possible.
A co-parenting app allows participants to organise their parenting responsibilities on either their phone as an app or on an alternative device. Popular features of most apps include shared calendars, expense tracking, recording of calls, timestamped messages, information libraries, and the ability to request and send payments. Some apps can even advise on the tone of voice in messages and emails to ensure communication stays as amicable as possible.
The main purpose of these apps is to act as a centralised platform, minimising misunderstandings and fostering transparent communication between co-parents.
There are both free and paid-for apps available.
Here are some popular choices for parents:
OurFamilyWizard is a web and mobile app which offers a choose-your-own-plan model to allow users to select the features they need the most.
cost – plans start at £107.99 a year
features:
- ToneMeter – helps parents anticipate how the tone of their message could be received by flagging statements that may be perceived as emotionally charged.
- Expense tracker – track shared parenting expenses, can send documented electronic payments via OFWpay (OurFamilyWizards built-in payment for shared parenting expenses)
- Information Bank – keep important family information in one safe place
- Journal – record observations and share memories or document last-minute schedule changes.
Talking Parents is an all-in-one co-parenting communication service that keeps interactions organised and documented.
Cost – there are both free and premium paid options, they range from £0 per month – £22 per month.
Features:
- accountable calling with recording and transcripts available without disclosing your phone number.
- accountable payments – keep track of shared expenses and make payment requests securely.
- timestamped and undeletable messages.
- shared calendar.
- information storage library
- personal, private journal to keep track of interactions.
- unalterable records which can be used by court professionals, each record includes a digital signature and a 16 digit authentication code.
3. AppClose
AppClose is a free app designed to streamline communication between co-parents and other family members or friends who are involved in the care and custody of a child/children.
Cost – free*
- No hidden fees
- No additional charges for increased storage
- No fees for access to ‘premium’ co-parenting tools
- No fees to export AppClose records
features:
- Ability to sync personal calendar to avoid scheduling conflicts.
- Parenting schedule templates available.
- Expense tracker allows you to enter expenses you want to save, export or submit for reimbursement.
- Request to swap or change pick up or drop off times, allowing for flexibility to suit personal schedules.
- Built-in scanning feature to scan receipts or documents, export records for litigation purposes.
- Built-in payment solution – ipayyou (*free for the first six months, after six months a processing fee of £1.90 per transaction is applied.
- AppCloseSolo: an exclusive feature which allows you to send requests or events to non-connected co-parents, family members or other third parties via text, email or social media.