Most parenting apps assume two parents under one roof. If you are separated, you need something built for two homes.
That is the difference that matters when you search for a parenting app after a separation. The right one gives both of you the same information at the same time, and keeps a calm record of what was agreed.
What separated parents actually need
Baby trackers and tip apps are useful, but they do not help you agree a handover, split a school trip cost or remember what was said last month. For that you need a co-parenting app: a shared space for both homes.
Look for these, in roughly this order: a calendar both parents can see, messages with a tone check before they send, a clear record of expenses and who has paid, shared documents, and a way to keep things calm when communication is difficult.
What to look for, one feature at a time
One shared calendar. Custody schedules, handovers, school events and appointments in one place, instead of two diaries that disagree.
Messages with a tone check. ParenThing checks the tone of a message before it sends, so a heated moment does not become a lasting record.
Expenses and child maintenance. Requested, agreed, paid and outstanding, with a dated record both parents can see.
Documents. Shared documents with approval tracking, and evidence packs you can export as a neutral PDF.
Where the data is kept. ParenThing is built in Ireland and your family's records are stored in the EU.
What no app can promise
No app can make a court or mediator accept its records, and none can replace legal advice. A dated, neutral record can help conversations stay factual. That is what to expect from it, nothing more.
Cost
ParenThing has a Free plan for both parents, and one Premium plan per family rather than one per parent. In the UK Premium is £10.99 a month or £109.99 a year. See our comparison of co-parenting apps in the UK for how that compares.
Common questions
Is there a parenting app for separated parents?
Yes. Most parenting apps are built for two parents in one home. A co-parenting app such as ParenThing is built for two homes, with one shared calendar, tone-checked messages, expense tracking and documents that both parents can see.
What is the difference between a parenting app and a co-parenting app?
A general parenting app usually helps one parent track a baby or toddler, or offers tips. A co-parenting app helps two separated parents coordinate: who has the children when, who paid for what, and what was agreed, with a dated record of each.
Does ParenThing have a Free plan?
Yes. ParenThing has a Free plan for both parents, and one Premium plan per family. In the UK Premium is £10.99 a month or £109.99 a year.