Best Co-Parenting Apps to Improve Communication & Parenting Time Management
Co-parenting can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing schedules, tracking expenses, and maintaining clear communication. Disagreements over parenting time, medical bills, and school events can lead to unnecessary conflict. Fortunately, co-parenting apps help parents stay organized, document key information, and reduce misunderstandings.
Here are three of the most effective co-parenting apps available and how they can help streamline communication and parenting time management.
1. Our Family Wizard
Our Family Wizard (OFW) is one of the most well-known co-parenting apps and is often recommended by family law professionals and court systems. It provides a structured and secure platform to improve co-parenting interactions.
Key Features:
✔ Shared Calendar – Track parenting schedules, holidays, and extracurricular activities.
✔ Expense Tracking – Log, track, and request reimbursements for shared expenses.
✔ Message Board & Secure Messaging – All communications are stored and cannot be altered, providing a record of interactions.
✔ ToneMeter™ – Analyzes messages for negative language before sending to promote positive communication.
✔ Document Storage – Keep medical records, school info, and custody agreements in one place.
Best For:
Parents who struggle with high-conflict communication.
Families who need a court-admissible communication log.
Parents looking for an all-in-one solution for scheduling, messaging, and financial tracking.
2. AppClose
AppClose is a free co-parenting app designed to simplify parenting time management and financial tracking. Unlike other apps, AppClose does not require a subscription, making it a great choice for parents seeking cost-effective solutions.
Key Features:
✔ Shared Parenting Calendar – Manage parenting time schedules and send modification requests.
✔ Expense & Reimbursement Requests – Track medical bills, school fees, and shared costs.
✔ Secure Messaging – Keep all co-parenting conversations organized and documented.
✔ Document & Record-Keeping – Store agreements, receipts, and other important information.
✔ Third-Party Coordination – Add attorneys, caregivers, or mediators to streamline co-parenting arrangements.
Best For:
Parents looking for a free alternative to paid co-parenting apps.
Families who need basic scheduling, expense tracking, and messaging tools.
Those wanting third-party involvement in co-parenting arrangements.
3. Talking Parents
Talking Parents is another court-recognized co-parenting app that ensures all messages, calls, and records are securely stored and uneditable. It’s ideal for parents needing a secure and accountable communication system.
Key Features:
✔ Secure Messaging – Messages cannot be edited or deleted, providing a court-admissible record.
✔ Call Recording – Keeps verifiable phone call records for transparency.
✔ Shared Calendar – Helps co-parents keep track of schedules and events.
✔ Payments & Expense Tracking – Allows easy documentation and requests for shared financial responsibilities.
✔ File Storage – Keep important documents and agreements easily accessible.
Best For:
Parents involved in high-conflict custody situations.
Co-parents requiring verified communication records for court purposes.
Families needing a secure, tamper-proof system for communication and financial tracking.
Choosing the Right Co-Parenting App
| Feature | Our Family Wizard | AppClose | Talking Parents |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Paid Subscription | Free | Paid Subscription |
| Court-Admissible Records | Yes | No | Yes |
| Secure Messaging | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Expense Tracking | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tone Monitoring | Yes (ToneMeter™) | No | No |
| Call Recording | No | No | Yes |
| Third-Party Access | No | Yes | No |
Why Use a Co-Parenting App?
💡 Prevents confusion by keeping all communication documented.
💡 Reduces tension by ensuring clear, structured interactions.
💡 Helps parents manage responsibilities efficiently and without conflict.
Many clients have found that using a structured co-parenting tool significantly improves their co-parenting relationship by eliminating disputes and promoting smoother coordination.
Need Help with a Custody or Parenting Time Issue?
If you need legal advice regarding custody, parenting time, or co-parenting arrangements, we’re here to help.
📞 Call or text Vining Legal at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation today: Click Here.
With the right tools and legal guidance, co-parenting can be more manageable and less stressful. Let’s find the best solution for your family.