Modernizing the Parenting Plan

Are you divorced with children? There’s an app for that. Actually, there are several apps for that.

While divorce can be a difficult time for a family, technology makes it a little more simple. Modern technology can help minimize conflict and make it easy to communicate ― critical concepts after a divorce involving children. Establishing a communication system early on helps eliminate needless arguments and helps children have stability in their new schedule.

With technology today, there are multiple options for getting everyone on the same page, such as electronic calendars and apps for smart phones. Google Calendar allows families to create their own calendar that they can share with as many people as they wish. It can be used for keeping track of things like custody time or a child’s pick-up schedule. Google Calendars work especially well because they do not require everyone in the family to have the same computer operating system. If you have a technologically blended family, another option is finding an app friendly to all smart phones. There are many to choose from, such as Daily Connect, Divorce Log, Kidganizer, and Parenting Apart, just to name a few.

If your children have smart phones, send them text messages to convey scheduling resolutions and conveyances of love. There is also a group text option (both parents and all children would be in the group), but it should only be used for issues that won’t turn into a group text argument between parents that the children can see.

Aside from these options, parents can also use email for communication to minimize conflict. Email is a great way for parents to isolate their communications concerning child custody and visitation. Email allows parents to walk away from a conversation for a bit instead of responding in the heat of the moment. Settling changes in the custody schedule by email and presenting the child with a unified plan helps the child feel secure.

Technology can do a lot to foster communication and minimize conflict in a family divorced with children. It will help the family to thrive and make the children feel secure. When you are dealing with custody issues, work with an attorney who possesses a thorough understanding of technology’s role in modern custody decisions.