Parenting Apps: Communication after Separation

Parenting Apps: Communication after Separation

Co-parenting after separation can be really difficult. Emotions are running high and it can be hard to stay focused on what is relevant. Sometimes, parents can benefit from using an App to communicate about children after they have separated.

App Features:

Most offer various features, including:

• Messaging that is time and date stamped which cannot be edited
• a shared calendar
• the ability to make calls
• the ability to log expenses, and
• the ability to keep a journal.

Which App will Suit Best?

The App that may best suit your family can depend on the features within the App and pricing.

Benefits of using an App:

The benefits to using a co-parenting communication App include:

1. Reading messages when the time is right for you.

Rather than receiving communication with your ex-partner as soon as they send it, for example by a text message or email, you can check the App when the time is right for you and when you will be in the right head space.

For example, rather than receiving a message from your ex-partner when you are about to walk into a big work meeting, or while you are enjoying brunch with your Mum, you can check it later that evening. Then you will have the time to prepare a considered response, instead of a rushed response that could be misinterpreted.

2. The Tone Meter.

Some Apps include features that can help improve communication. For example, the Our Family Wizard App includes a ‘tone meter’. This feature gives parents feedback as to whether their communication is aggressive or could be upsetting. The App prompts parents to reconsider or rephrase their message before sending it. Having that prompt to pause and reflect during moments of high emotion can go a long way in shaping future communication. 

3. Organised Communication all in one place.

With an App, communication is all in one place. We have seen so many clients try to navigate communication with their ex-partner on various platforms. One parent sends an email, then the other responds to it by text, or starts a completely new email thread. The communication trail is lost and then there are then misunderstandings. As co-parenting after separation can be challenging, it's important to not make it harder.

If you are separated and want to streamline your communication, consider one of these Apps. Improved co-parenting communication will benefit you and importantly, your children.