Top 10 Apps for Co-Parenting or Divorcing Parents: Pros, Cons and Costs

Navigating co-parenting after a divorce can be challenging, especially when communication between ex-partners is strained. Fortunately, there are several apps designed to help divorcing or separated parents stay organized, communicate effectively and put their children first. As a divorce coach in Illinois, I often recommend tools that simplify this process, helping families stay on track. Here are the top 10 co-parenting apps with their pros, cons and costs.

1. OurFamilyWizard

Pros:

• Allows seamless communication and scheduling.
• Court-approved and often recommended by family law attorneys and courts.
• Provides message and calendar tracking that can be accessed in legal situations.

​Cons:

• Some features can be overwhelming for less tech-savvy users.
• Can be expensive for families on a budget.

Cost: $99/year per parent (Free for children and third parties like mediators).
Website: ourfamilywizard.com

2. Cozi Family Organizer

Pros:

• User-friendly interface for co-parenting schedules, shopping lists, and to-dos.
• Great for families who want to stay organized in general, beyond just parenting.
• Free option available.

Cons:

• Lacks features specifically designed for co-parenting, like messaging or expense tracking.

Cost: Free version available; premium version at $29.99/year.
​Website: cozi.com

3. 2Houses

Pros:

• Focused on helping separated parents manage scheduling, expenses, and communication.
• Offers features like a shared calendar, expense management, and a journal for kids.
• Built with mediation and conflict resolution in mind.

Cons:

• Can be pricey for some families.
• The user interface could use improvements for smoother navigation.

Cost: $12.50/month per family.
Website: 2houses.com

4. TalkingParents

Pros:

• Allows parents to have recorded, secure communication.
  
• Messages and documents can be used in court if needed.
  
• Features include messaging, call recordings, and shared calendars.
  

Cons:

• Limited free plan with ads.
  
• Some advanced features are locked behind a paywall.
  

Cost: Free plan available with ads, Premium Plan at $9.99/month.
Website: talkingparents.com

5. Coparently

Pros:

• Offers tools for scheduling, messaging, and expense management.
  
• Simple interface with dedicated co-parenting functions.
  
• Great for tracking all communication in one place.
  

Cons:

• Slightly expensive for some users.
  
• Lacks advanced legal features like call recordings.
  

Cost: $99/year per parent or $9.99/month.
​Website: coparently.com

6. Fayr

Pros:

• Built specifically for co-parenting, focusing on time-sharing, expenses, and communication.
  
• GPS check-ins to document visitation exchanges.
  
• Detailed reports that can be used for legal purposes.
  

Cons:

• Requires a premium subscription for most of its features.
  
• GPS feature can be intrusive for some users.
  

Cost: $99/year or $9.99/month.
Website: fayr.com

7. Custody X Change

Pros:

• Focused on helping parents create customized custody and visitation schedules.
• Generates printable reports for court hearings or mediation.
• Offers tracking and analytics for time-sharing compliance.

Cons:

• Primarily built for custody schedules rather than ongoing co-parenting.
• More useful during the legal process than post-divorce communication.

Cost: $17/month or $97/year.
​Website: custodyxchange.com

8. AppClose

Pros:

• Free to use, making it accessible for all families.
  
• Offers scheduling, expense tracking, and secure messaging.
  
• No subscription fees.
  

Cons:

• Fewer features compared to paid apps like OurFamilyWizard or 2Houses.
  
• Some users report occasional technical glitches.
  

Cost: Free
Website: appclose.com

9. SupportPay

Pros:

• Designed specifically for managing child support payments and shared expenses.
  
• Allows parents to easily track and organize payments and receipts.
  
• Great for clear financial accountability between co-parents.
  

Cons:

• Not focused on communication or scheduling.
  
• Best suited for parents with complex financial arrangements.
  

Cost: Free version available; premium version at $14.99/month.
​Website: supportpay.com

10. Divvito Messenger

Pros:

• Simplified co-parenting communication app.
  
• Offers message tracking and stores all conversations for easy reference.
  
• Focuses on reducing conflict through clear, organized communication.
  

Cons:

• Only offers messaging, no scheduling or expense tracking features.
  
• Not ideal for parents needing more comprehensive co-parenting tools.
  

Cost: Free with limited features, Premium at $4.99/month.
Website: divvito.com

How These Apps Can Benefit Your Co-Parenting Journey

As a divorce coach in Illinois, I encourage my clients to find tools that make their co-parenting experience smoother. Apps like these can reduce conflict, streamline communication, and create better environments for children, ensuring that their needs come first. By staying organized and transparent, both parents can work together more effectively, even after divorce.

If you’re going through a divorce and need guidance, I'd love to help you navigate the process! My divorce coaching services provide personalized support to help you navigate this challenging time, ensuring your family stays focused on what truly matters.

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