Our Family Wizard
OFW offers a range of tools and features designed to streamline communication and organization between co-parents. To make it even more convenient, OFW is available both as an online platform and a mobile app.
Here are some differences between the two:
Online Version
Mobile App
Accessibility:
Accessible through any web browser on various devices.
Specifically designed for smartphones and tablets, available on iOS and Android.
Real-time Messaging:
Email-like messaging for longer, detailed communication.
Quick, text-like messaging with notifications for instant updates.
Calendar and Scheduling:
Comprehensive calendar with advanced features for in-depth planning.
Simplified calendar for quick check-ins, suitable for small screens.
Expense Tracking:
Detailed expense tracking, categorization, receipt attachment, and report generation.
Streamlined expense tracking, quick logging with some limitations compared to the online version.
File Sharing:
Secure upload, storage, and sharing of documents and files.
Allows file sharing but has some limitations compared to the online version.
Accessibility:
Online Version
Accessible through any web browser on various devices.
Mobile App
Specifically designed for smartphones and tablets, available on iOS and Android.
Real-time Messaging:
Online Version
Email-like messaging for longer, detailed communication.
Mobile App
Quick, text-like messaging with notifications for instant updates.
Calendar and Scheduling:
Online Version
Comprehensive calendar with advanced features for in-depth planning.
Mobile App
Simplified calendar for quick check-ins, suitable for small screens.
Expense Tracking:
Online Version
Detailed expense tracking, categorization, receipt attachment, and report generation.
Mobile App
Streamlined expense tracking, quick logging with some limitations compared to the online version.
File Sharing:
Online Version
Secure upload, storage, and sharing of documents and files.
Mobile App
Allows file sharing but has some limitations compared to the online version.
Whether you’re in the middle of a divorce or just looking for ways to enhance communication, a helpful tip is to “keep it BIFF” (Brief, Informative, Factual, and Friendly).
1. Brief and to the Point:
In the world of OFW, less is often more. When you communicate through the app, it’s essential to keep your messages brief and to the point. Long-winded messages can lead to confusion, misinterpretation, or even unnecessary conflict. Remember, anything you write in the app can be used in court, so clarity is key.
Example: “Can we adjust this weekend’s schedule for my work? Thanks.”
2. Informative, Not Emotive:
Effective communication on OFW means providing information without letting emotions get in the way. Stick to the facts and avoid personal attacks or emotional language. Being informative helps keep discussions focused on the issues at hand, reducing the risk of arguments or escalations.
Example: “I noticed a delay during the last few pickups. Let’s work on keeping to the schedule.”
3. Factual and Accurate:
Trust is crucial in co-parenting, and one way to build and maintain trust is by being factual and accurate in your communications. Misrepresenting facts or making false claims can damage your credibility and complicate your co-parenting relationship. Stick to the truth, even if it’s uncomfortable.
Example: “I’ve attended all recent school events.”
4. Friendly and Respectful:
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, maintain a friendly and respectful tone in your OFW communications. It’s understandable that emotions can run high, but treating each other with courtesy and respect fosters a healthier co-parenting environment. Being friendly doesn’t mean being best friends, but it does mean being civil.
Example: “Let’s find a way to work through this together.”
The Our Family Wizard app can be a powerful tool for co-parenting success, but it’s vital to approach your interactions with care. Remember, effective communication is the key to smoother co-parenting, and it begins with the words you choose. By following these principles, we can all work together to use the app to your advantage, making co-parenting a more manageable and less stressful journey for everyone involved.
