Do you want a better co-parenting relationship with your ex? Here are the best 11 co-parenting apps for divorced couples, as recommended by family lawyers. These apps help separated parents manage time, custody schedules, child support, and more.
This research will save you a lot of time
We spent several hours researching other apps that are available on both desktop and mobile platforms. We have created an extensive PDF that lists the 29 best childcare apps worldwide (download below). This includes all the most popular ones. Our aim is to save you valuable time that you would otherwise spend searching the web for these apps. You’ll be able to proceed on your of co-parenting journey with cooperation and respect.
In this blog, we will stay focused on what we believe to be useful co-parenting apps. This list aims to help you find the best co-parenting tool for you.
There are free co-parenting apps, while others charge a fee. Most are comprehensive and provide quality content to make raising kids together fun. Don’t let the free option aspect fool you into thinking it’s poor quality—far from it.
We dived deep, reading customer reviews and analysing website traffic volume. This will help you understand which apps are the most popular for separated parents.
Introduction
How to Help Your Children Cope with a Divorce?
Separated or divorced parents must work together to raise their kids. While co-parenting can often be challenging for single parents, divorce makes it more complicated. We compiled a list of the 11 best co-parenting apps that can assist children in coping with divorce.
Shanahan Family Law believes we all deserve a second chance. These apps can help in improving the quality of your life. Look into how an app can help you. Whether it’s one from this list or any other co-parenting app.
The Basics: Co-Parenting App 101
Divorces and co-parenting in Australia have been on the rise since COVID-19. First, a parent must focus on improved communication with their ex-partner and kids. If you want your co-parenting partner to hear you, find a good set of tools to enable those conversations.
What Is Co-Parent, and How Can It Help You?
Co-parenting is a process in which they have equal decision-making and parenting responsibilities. You can do this in two ways: together or by yourselves. The latter is the most common choice, but joint custody parents can also make co-parenting decisions.
Raising kids together allows you to achieve the most beneficial outcomes for the child. Results include maintaining positive relationships with each parent and a shared identity. In most cases, it’s the best way to raise your child.
Do co-parenting apps really work?
Yes, without a doubt. We have received much feedback from past co-parents. A client recommends the free Coparenta app. The client liked its simplicity and easy childcare scheduling.
We mentioned this in our ‘How to communicate effectively during the holidays‘ blog.
Co-parenting apps and services can help them cope with the stresses of co-parenting. Some are more effective than others. A study showed that the most effective apps provided information and support to them.
What to look for in a good parenting app?
It depends on your circumstances. These may include finances and your ability to co-parent effectively. Expense tracking for shared costs can maintain fairness and accountability, especially when records are automatically recorded. Informative parenting courses assist them in navigating difficult situations. Storage features help track medical records, medical bills, and other key information. Scheduling and messaging tools streamline communication and coordination.
The best co-parenting apps are the ones that empower them. The key here is to avoid feeling like someone must lead you through every step of your child’s day. This point is where most apps fail. The best apps give them the tools and insight to be more independent and self-reliant. A great app teaches co-parents how to become the best parents possible for their kids.
A tip is to read the reviews and take note of the number of downloads.
Ok, now we are going to share the best of the best co-parenting apps in 2024.
1. Time Tree
Time Tree is a popular app with more than 5 million downloads. It’s easy to use, and the best part is that it’s free. If you’re looking for an app to create custom schedules on your phone or desktop for your personal use, then we recommend Time Tree.
Primary purpose
Custody schedule, shared calendar.
Primary features
Shared Calendar. Create and share multi-functional calendars with others, making it easy to coordinate schedules and plans.
Integrated Secure Communication. Combines the functionalities of multiple apps by providing a neutral platform for messaging, photo sharing, and event planning.
Multi-Calendar Support. Separate calendars for different groups such as family, friends, and colleagues.
TimeTree Public Calendars. Easily share event information in a calendar format with a broader audience.
TimeTree Premium. Ad-free experience and additional functionalities like file attachments, event priority, and a vertical view option.
Why we like it
Simplifies Coordination. TimeTree’s shared calendar functionality makes it incredibly easy to coordinate schedules among various groups.
All-in-One Communication Tool. By integrating messaging, photo sharing, and calendar functionalities, TimeTree is a comprehensive communication tool that simplifies planning and discussion.
Versatility for Different Groups. The ability to create and manage multiple calendars for different groups makes TimeTree a versatile app that can cater to the scheduling needs of any family.
2. Baby Connect
Baby Connect is a leading co-parenting app that aims to provide better care for your baby. The app has over 200,000 downloads and an average review of 4.8 from over 15,000 users. They offer a free 7-day trial with paid plans from $6.49 to $20.99 monthly. It’s well worth a review if you have a baby in the family.
This co-parenting app could be great for them when sharing custody agreements. The app would help each co-parent understand their newborn’s sleeping and eating patterns. This benefit would assist with transitions.
Primary purpose
Babies, tracking, reports, organise schedules.
Primary features
Sleep Tracking. Monitor your baby’s sleep and naps to ensure adequate rest.
Feeding Tracker. Log breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and solid food intake.
Diaper & Potty. Track diaper changes, potty training progress, and accidents.
Milestones. Record and cherish every developmental milestone with notes and photos.
Medical Tracking. Record health data, vaccinations, and doctor visits comprehensively.
Reports. Analyse data through charts to observe your baby’s patterns over time.
Why we like it
Comprehensive Tracking. Offers detailed monitoring across various essential categories.
Accessible on Multiple Devices. Use it on your phone, computer, or smartwatch.
Easy Caregiver Collaboration. Share access to your child’s profile with other caregivers.
3. Fam Cal
Fam Cal was a pleasant surprise. It was all about family connection and managing day-to-day family life. It is straightforward to navigate and has an above-average design. Fam Cal offers a limited free version and a paid gold subscription fee of $7.49 monthly or AUD 36.99 for 12 months. You can also send payments of $91.99 for a lifetime.
They also offer a 7-day trial. The lifetime offer could be a winner for many. The app has had over 1 million downloads with an average rating of 4.2 from 6,000 Android users and 4.8 from 1,100 Apple users.
Primary purpose
Calendar, shopping, creating to-do lists, memos, events, export.
Primary features
Family Members. Assign roles for adults and kids, using colour codes for individual events.
Family Calendar. Share and edit events across the family with reminders and an agenda view.
Share Lists & Assign Tasks. Collaborate on grocery lists, shopping, and task assignments.
Family Notes. Create and share unlimited notes and memos within the family.
Shared Recipes. Organise recipes, integrate ingredients with shopping lists, and schedule meals.
Cross-Device Accessibility. Access FamCal across various devices, ensuring seamless sync.
Why we like it
Centralised Family Organisation. Combines all family planning tools in one app for streamlined organisation.
Interactive Engagement. Facilitates family interaction with shared tasks, notes, and calendars.
Versatile Usage. Offers features beyond a basic calendar, including recipe organisation and task management.
4. Talking Parents
Talking Parents stood out as a valuable resource for seeking a structured and reliable way to manage their responsibilities including messaging, call logs, and video calls. It fosters a more cooperative and less contentious relationship for the benefit of their kids.
There’s a free version with limited features, a $9.99 monthly tier with additional functionality and mobile access, and a $24.99 premium tier with a complete feature set.
Primary purpose
Calendar, direct messaging, group chat, journal entries, file storage — all features designed to streamline communication and keep important information organised for future reference.
Primary features
Accountable Calling. Facilitates phone or video calls with call recordings and transcripts without revealing phone numbers.
Accountable Payments. Manages shared parenting tracking expenses, and shared expenses allowing them to make payment requests and securely transfer money.
Secure Messaging. Provides a platform for all the messages uneditable, ensuring transparent and accountable communication.
Shared Calendar. Assists in managing custody schedules and appointments help reduce conflict.
Info Library. Stores vital information like emergency contacts and medical details, easily accessible.
Personal Journal. A private space for parents to store document notes and interactions not shared with the co-parent to reduce conflict.
Vault File Storage. Allows one parent to securely store and organise important documents and images.
Attachment Library. Facilitates easy access and download of all shared files in the messaging system.
Unalterable Records. Maintains a detailed record of all communications and actions, which can be used as admissible evidence in family court.
Why we like it
Comprehensive Co-Parenting Solution. Offers various useful tools addressing communication, scheduling, financial management, and information storage.
Focus on Accountability. Features like unalterable records and accountable payments ensure transparency and reliability in interactions.
Legal Admissibility. The platform’s records are recognised by courts, providing a reliable source of evidence if disputes arise.
5. Storypark
We liked Storypark’s communication tools and appreciated its focus on collaboration and inclusivity. Its well-thought-out feature set enhances understanding between Australian families, educators, and third party professionals. The learning documentation creates accountability and makes progress easy to monitor. There’s a free plan, a $1.39 per child monthly plan for educators, and a multi-site plan with pricing available on request.
Primary purpose
Messaging, planning, activity reporting, profiles.
Primary features
Communication Tools. Facilitates easy and rewarding two-way discussions between families and educators.
Document Learning. Provides simple yet powerful tools to capture and document kid’s learning as it happens.
Record Daily Routines. Enables recording and sharing daily routine information like feeding, sleeping, and toileting.
Planning Tools. Offers a flexible tool for program planning needs, with templates that assist in meeting requirements.
Insights and Monitoring. Educators can track each child’s learning journey, identify trends, and compare curriculum usage over time.
Why we like it
Communication and Documentation. Storypark facilitates seamless communication between educators and families.
Versatility. The platform offers a flexible and robust suite of planning and reporting tools that cater to the diverse needs of early learning environments.
Cross-Platform Accessibility. Storypark functions seamlessly across various devices and platforms.
6. Divorce and Children
Christina McGhee, a coach, speaker, and writer, runs this website. Based in America, she provides a range of free and paid resources to help children thrive through family transitions. Offering coaching in written or video formats, you can take your pick.
You can download it free and receive paid coaching; pricing can vary. It’s a little on the high side, but as they say, you get what you pay for.
Primary purpose
It is a coaching program and film about divorce, designed to support both kids and parents in post-divorce life. It also helps keep parents accountable while navigating co-parenting challenges.
Primary features
Documentary Films. Films from The SPLIT Outreach Project are offered, depicting kids’ and teens’ experiences with divorce.
Parental Coaching. Provides coaching services for them navigating post-divorce challenges.
Training Resources. Offers education and training resources to help co-parent understands their children’s needs during divorce.
Why we like it
Child-Centred Approach. Focuses on children’s perspectives, helping co-parents understand their kids’ experiences and emotions during divorce.
Insightful Resources. The documentary films are unique resources that offer a genuine glimpse into what kids experience when their parents separate.
Supportive Services. The coaching and training services offer practical support team and strategies for separated parents to navigate co-parenting effectively.
7. Raising Children
We’re impressed with the online co-parenting resources for this free, Australian Government-funded application. Raising Children has three contributing member organisations: The Parent Research Centre, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne and Murdoch Children’s Institute. For resources covering all areas, look no further than Raising Children. We recommend them.
Pro tip: For specific information, use the top search bar and type “co-parenting”, for example. You’ll see a list of resources that you can use.
Primary purpose
It covers all areas of raising children and is a great website.
Primary features
Wide Range of Topics. Covers everything from newborn care to teenage development.
Expert-Reviewed Content. Information is up-to-date, reliable, and reviewed by experts.
Multimedia Resources. Offers articles, videos, and interactive resources tailored to different childcare stages.
Newsletter Subscription. Provides updates on parenthood tips and strategies through email newsletters.
Why we like it
Comprehensive Coverage. Provides a broad spectrum of parenting time and information in one place.
Trustworthy Information. Backed by the Australian Government and reviewed by experts, ensuring reliability.
User-Friendly Design. Easy to navigate and designed for busy families, making information accessible and digestible.
8. Human Improvement
We first learned about this app from a client who recommended it. It is a free application provided by a Colorado non-profit research institute. Their “mission is to fund programs that show strong scientific evidence of having the largest positive impact on kids”. We recommend this application.
We like its simple design, easy navigation, and science-based quality content. The fact that this app is free is fantastic. 100% free, with valuable content.
Two apps are available: The Happy Children Parenting app and In Love While Parenting.
Primary purpose
Children and parenting relationships.
Primary features
Research-Based Apps. Offers apps that provide insights and interventions based on the latest research to improve well-being.
Multilingual Accessibility. Apps and resources are available in 15 languages and used globally.
Free Mental Health Screening. Provides free annual mental health screening for children, aligning with the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations.
Educational Content. Features a range of materials, including blogs and mini-lessons, to foster better relationships and personal growth.
Why we like it
Impactful Research. Their work is rooted in significant research, aiming to uncover the primary factors influencing well-being.
Global Reach and Accessibility. The availability of resources in multiple languages and countries broadens the impact on families worldwide.
Practical Applications. The apps offer practical, science-backed tips and strategies that users can readily apply to their daily lives.
9. Triple P Parenting
Triple P Parenting‘s founder, Matt Saunders, did a great job creating these free courses. Their website says the UN ranks Triple P as the best parenting program worldwide. Triple P doesn’t tell you how to be a parent; it’s more about using their toolbox of ideas.
The Queensland Government has funded their program as part of its commitment to supporting families across the state. We recommend the their courses, which cover essential topics such as behaviour strategies, school information, and emotional wellbeing.
Primary purpose
Parenting children and teenagers, online and in-person education.
Primary features
Interactive Online Learning. Accessible on various devices, allowing them to learn at their own pace.
Evidence-Based Strategies. Offers 17 effective parenthood strategies that are research-backed and proven to work.
Comprehensive Content. The course includes videos, interactive activities, and progress tracking to enhance the learning experience.
Certificate of Completion. Participants can earn badges and receive a certificate upon completing the course.
Family Inclusivity. Encourages participation from partners and other family members, promoting a unified approach to parenthood.
Why we like it
Flexibility and Accessibility. Learn anytime, anywhere, making it convenient for busy parents.
Proven Effectiveness. Based on rigorous research, ensuring the strategies provided are reliable and impactful.
Supportive of Parental Growth. Empowers them with skills to handle various ages, stages, and situations confidently.
10. Parent Lab
Parent Lab was a pleasant surprise. The app has received over 100,000 downloads and not one surprising review. Parent Lab provides several free courses, which is excellent as it gives you a feel for what they offer. You can learn through audio or reading, making it easier for separated families to stay on the same page when it comes to childcare approaches.
The app provides parental coaching and lets you ask childcare questions in a community. That was a neat feature. 7-day free trial paid premium subscriber from AUD 19.99 per month or $99 for 12 months.
Primary purpose
Evidence-based parent training is all about improving family life, including for separated families. It helps parents work more effectively with their former partner to support their little one’s wellbeing.
Primary features
Personalised Content. Offers daily, bite-sized practices tailored to the user’s needs and the ages of their little ones.
Live Events. Provides live events with experts, including book clubs, meditations, and discussions, for deeper learning and engagement.
Expert Collaboration. Collaborates with child development and psychology experts to ensure the content is credible and compelling.
Family Insights. Provides customised insights based on the kid’s ages, helping them understand and cater to their developmental needs.
Why we like it
Focus on Practicality. The app emphasises practical, easy-to-implement strategies that fit busy schedules.
Expert-Backed. The involvement of professionals in child development ensures that the advice and strategies are based on the latest research and best practices.
Community and Learning. Offers a platform for them to learn from experts and engage with other parents, creating a supportive community.
11. Baby Sparks
Baby Sparks has had over 1 million downloads. What is all the fuss about, then? When you download the app, it will greet you with the words “A development expert in your pocket”. The app states they have helped more than 7 million families.
You can talk to experts, create a daily program for your needs, and take 67 courses. This co-parenting app focuses on the development of babies.
The app has a free version. Paid from AUD 29.99 per month or AUD 179.99 for 12 months.
Primary purpose
Early development and tracking.
Primary features
Parenting App. Offers thousands of personalised activities and milestones for kids aged 0-3, aiming for developmental benefits with just 20 minutes of daily use.
Online Classes. This class features hundreds of sessions covering sleep, nutrition, and discipline. Sessions are available live, on-demand, or via private coaching.
Expert-Backed Content. Experts create scientifically backed content, ensuring reliability and effectiveness.
Parent Resources. Provides over 450 articles on a wide range of raising little ones topics, with new content added weekly to keep them informed and engaged.
Why we like it
Focused on Early Development. Specifically targets the crucial early years, providing extracurricular activities that promote cognitive, physical, and emotional growth.
Flexibility in Learning. Offers various ways to learn and engage, accommodating different preferences and parenting schedule.
Global Use and High Ratings. Utilised by over 9 million parents worldwide, it has garnered over 30,000 5-star reviews, attesting to its popularity and effectiveness.
Do you need legal assistance with your family law matter?
Bottom line
Here are the 11 co-parenting apps we recommend:
Time Tree
Baby Connect
Fam Cal
Talking parents
Storypark
Divorce and Children
Raising Children
Human Improvement
Triple P Parenting
Parent Lab
Baby Sparks
Get Help
We urge anyone suffering domestic abuse to seek advice from family law professionals. If you feel your life is in danger, contact the police at 000 or call Parentline at 1300-30-1300 for more help.
Thank you for reading this far.
