What Are the Best Apps for Working Parents to Manage Family Schedules?
Do you ever feel like coordinating your family’s schedule is a second full-time job?
I definitely get it. Balancing a professional career, parenting, and keeping track of everyone's activities is exhausting. Honestly, it's enough to drain even the most organized parent. That's why choosing the right app to manage family schedules can be so important. But with so many choices out there, finding one that actually works for your family can be tough.
Why I Believe in Digital Organization
When talking to other parents in my coaching sessions, I often hear that they still rely on old-school methods like paper calendars or fridge reminders. I get it—there’s something reassuring about writing things down. But as Dr. Jason Selk and I discuss in our sessions, paper systems easily break down. You can't always take a wall calendar with you when you're out and about.
This is where digital scheduling apps really shine. You can access them anywhere, instantly share updates with family members, and make changes on the fly. In fact, choosing the right app is so important that I’ve actually spent quite a bit of time reviewing and testing different options myself.
Family-Friendly Scheduling Apps That Actually Work
Cozi Family Organizer
Cozi is probably one of the most well-known apps out there, and for good reason. It's designed specifically for families, offering shared calendars, shopping lists, and even meal planning. I personally like that it’s easy to use even for kids and grandparents—so everyone stays on the same page. Plus, it syncs across multiple devices, a must-have if your family mixes Android and Apple phones.
Google Calendar
Google Calendar isn't strictly a family app, but many parents swear by it—including me. What I appreciate most is its simplicity and compatibility across nearly every device. You can color-code schedules for each family member, set reminders, and easily share events. Jason and I recommend it especially if you're already deep into the Google ecosystem. It's reliable and straightforward.
FamCal
FamCal is gaining popularity, and I understand why. Unlike general calendar apps, FamCal lets family members post notes and memos alongside events, which I find helpful. It’s a bit like having a family bulletin board right on your phone. If you have older kids who need reminders about chores or homework, this app could be especially useful.
Looking for even more options? Check out this review of helpful family organizer apps.
Simple Habits That Boost Organization
Apps can only do so much—you need solid habits to make them effective. When trying to coordinate busy family schedules, applying some simple time management tips can make a huge difference. Jason and I often remind parents that consistency beats complexity every time. Using your app regularly and keeping it updated are small steps that yield big results.
Budget-Friendly Organization Hacks
While premium apps can offer great features, organizing your family's schedule doesn’t always mean spending extra money. If you’re looking to save money and still keep organized, here are some free ways to stay organized that could help. Sometimes the simplest approaches—like setting consistent family check-ins—can be more effective than anything money can buy.
Balancing Work and Family with Less Stress
One of the core reasons we created Level Up Game Plan was to address parental burnout. Juggling professional responsibilities and family life can feel overwhelming, but these strategies for balancing work and family might ease your stress. The goal isn't perfection—just progress. Small changes lead to noticeable improvements.
If you want a broader view of some other highly-rated options, here's a useful breakdown of some of the best shared family calendar apps you can try.
How to Get Started
Choosing an app is a personal decision based on your family’s unique needs. Take advantage of free trials to test a few. Invite your spouse or older children to give feedback. Family buy-in makes a difference—I promise.
If you're interested in other practical ways to enhance your mental wellness and organize your family's life, explore Level Up’s Daily Journal or our other mindful parenting resources.
Ready to make scheduling easier and lower your stress? Check out the app and see how simple daily rituals can improve your family’s mental wellness. Sign up here.
References
“Best Shared Calendar Apps for Families.” Motion, www.usemotion.com/blog/best-shared-calendar-app-for-families. Accessed 9 Apr. 2025.
Gibson, Ashley. “These Family Organizer Apps Can Make Your Life a Little Easier.” Mashable, www.mashable.com/article/family-organizer-app-review. Accessed 9 Apr. 2025.