The closer we get to the holiday season, the busier our lives seem to become. If we don’t have a solid way to keep track of all of our family’s events and to-do’s, we will quickly drop all those plates we are trying to spin at the same time.

That’s why a group calendar app for an iPhone or Android device is so important. Calendar apps are designed to help you streamline all your important events and tasks in one place, so nothing overlaps or is forgotten.

But knowing which family sync calendar app is best for your family, or even how to use it efficiently, can be overwhelming. We’re here today to alleviate that stress and guide you to the family calendar app that fits your family’s lifestyle.

Types of Family Calendar Apps

There are a few distinguishing features of family calendar apps. The first is cost. Many family calendar apps are free; others require either a monthly or yearly fee.

Next, some calendars are strictly calendars and do not include task managing tools, while other calendar apps include both and additional features such as photo sharing.

Also, most family calendar apps are designed for multiple users, but not all. If it is important for your kids to be able to access and use the app, then you want to avoid apps that won’t work on their devices or are designed for one user.

Finally, some family calendar apps feature auto-updates. This means the calendar app is updated in real-time for all users, so if one user edits, deletes, or adds an event to the family calendar, this change occurs on each family member’s app in real time. Also, some of the updates with auto-updates send out notifications when changes are made to the family calendar.

How to Find the Best Family Calendar App for Android and iPhone for Your Family

When it comes to choosing the right calendar app for your family, you must consider why you need it. What problems is your family dealing with when it comes to your routine and schedule? Are extracurriculars overwhelming you, or are work meetings taking over your evenings? Or are you looking for a calendar that will help manage household tasks?

Once you identify your reasons for needing a family calendar app, then you need to consider who will be using it and how. For instance, some apps require email accounts, but if your children do not have email accounts, this app will prove inefficient for your family. Likewise, you must also make sure the app will work across the devices your family uses.

How to Use Family Calendar App for iPhone and Android Efficiently

If you are spending the time to research the best family calendar app for Android and iPhone, then you don’t want to download the app and not use it. You want to use it in a way that makes your life easier! Here are some tips for using your family calendar app efficiently:

1. Create categories. Must apps include color coding? Choose a different color for each family member, as well as certain colors for different types of events.
2. If you do not need to see a category every day (such as bill due dates), then do not make this category visible.
3. Utilize task management features the app provides, such as to-do lists, for things like “Take cupcakes to the class party” rather than putting it on the color-coded calendar.
4. Teach your kids how to use the calendar early. Encourage older kids to check the calendar regularly rather than expecting parents to remind them.

The 10 Best Family Calendar Apps for Android and iPhone for 2020