3 Ways to Share Your Data

Discover three different methods to share Alimentor data and uncover the unique benefits of each.

Sharing Child Custody Documentation

Introduction

Navigating the world of co-parenting can be complex, but sharing child custody information doesn't have to be. In this article, we'll explore three straightforward methods for using Alimentor to share custody data. Our goal is to ensure that everyone involved in your child's upbringing – whether it's your former spouse, a new partner, grandparents, or babysitters – remains connected and well-informed, always prioritizing the best interests of your child.

1. Sharing with iCloud Sync

iCloud Sync provides the easiest and most secure way of sharing your data. Your records are securely stored within your private iCloud container hosted by Apple, alongside your contacts, photos, and other personal data.

How It Works:

  • Alimentor uses Apple's iCloud infrastructure and therefore you do not need a separate account/login process.
  • To share, send an invitation link from Alimentor to the person you want to share with.
  • The recipient must accept the invitation to gain access to your records.
  • iCloud Sync operates unidirectionally by default, meaning sharing is not automatically reciprocated. For mutual sharing, both parties need to send and accept invitation links.
  • Data is always shared in a read-only mode, others can't alter or delete it.
  • While Alimentor enables viewing of your device calendar, be aware that events from external calendars (such as Gmail and Outlook), though visible in the app, are not included in iCloud Sync sharing.

Pros:

  • Instant, secure sharing of your entire database.
  • View combined data from all caregivers sharing with you.

Cons:

  • Other caregivers must install Alimentor.
  • No ability to limit the scope of shared data.

For detailed instructions on sharing data, visit the Alimentor User Guide.

2. Exporting to External Calendars with CalSync

CalSync allows you to automatically export Alimentor records to any external calendars (e.g., iCloud, Gmail) that are configured in your device’s standard Calendar app.

This feature is especially designed for sharing a specific range of information, such as custody schedules and details about important events (doctor's appointments, extracurricular activities, parent-teacher meetings, etc.), with a wide array of recipients.

It also allows you to share your Alimentor calendar indirectly with people who, for various reasons, cannot or do not wish to install our application.

Additionally, using CalSync is an efficient way to integrate your parenting schedule into your own work calendar, helping you maintain a balance between parenting responsibilities and professional commitments.

How It Works:

  • Set up rules for automated export of selected record subsets to external calendars.
  • Share these external calendar(s) as needed.

Pros:

  • Customizable export rules for different data subsets.
  • No need for Alimentor installation by others.

Cons:

  • Photos and attachments are not exported.
  • Changes in external calendars don’t sync back to Alimentor.

To learn more about CalSync, visit the Alimentor User Guide.

3. Sharing Reports and Spreadsheets

The detailed reports you can create with Alimentor serve two main purposes: to enable consistent and regular information sharing with the other parent and to offer strong support in mediation or court, acting as credible records of custody activities and expenses.

You can also export all your Alimentor data into a spreadsheet. This function is particularly useful for those who love delving into details. Imagine creating charts that offer a visual story of your co-parenting schedule or performing calculations that bring clarity to expenses.

Sharing your reports with the other parent:
  • Provides a comprehensive overview of key custody details.
  • Helps make co-parenting conversations more productive.
  • Reduces potential misunderstandings.
  • Serves as formal documentation for legal proceedings.

To secure proof of receipt, important for legal documentation:
  • With emails: Use read receipts to confirm opening or request an acknowledgment reply from the other parent.
  • For hardcopy reports: Have the other parent sign and return a copy, affirming they've received and acknowledged the contents.

How It Works:

  • Generate reports for regular sharing or legal documentation.
  • Export all records to a spreadsheet.

Pros:

  • Enhances communication and legal preparedness.
  • Invaluable in situations where maintaining cooperative communication is challenging.

Cons:

  • Requires commitment to regular report generation.

For more details on reporting, visit the Alimentor User Guide.

For insights on custody documentation, see "Documentation in Child Custody Cases".

Mutual Data Sharing

Alimentor can be used independently by one parent, but sharing custody-related information between parents in both directions offers numerous benefits.

If you're seeking to encourage the other parent to participate in mutual data sharing, consider using this sample letter:

Dear [Other Parent's Name],

I hope you're doing well. I know things are a bit rough right now, but I really believe sharing information about our children's activities and schedules can significantly benefit us all, especially them.

Imagine if we both had a clear understanding of their school activities, medical appointments, and social events. This knowledge would help us coordinate better, avoid scheduling conflicts, and provide stability.

Keeping each other in the loop means we can help them stay consistent with their interests and commitments. It also helps us to be there for them emotionally, understanding what they're excited about or what might be bothering them.

Don't worry, I'm not talking about sharing every little detail of our lives – just the stuff that matters for taking care of the kids. It’s about making sure they feel stable and supported by both of us.

Now, for the practical part: I found this app called Alimentor 2, and it seems like a perfect tool for us. It helps schedule and track parenting time, expenses, and important events. It’s user-friendly and doesn’t need a monthly subscription, which is a bonus.

I'm eager to hear your thoughts on this. It's important to me that we work together for the sake of our kid(s), showing them that we're still a team when it comes to parenting.

Talk soon,

[Your Name]

Conclusion

Alimentor's features, including iCloud Sync, CalSync, and report generation, offer diverse ways to share child custody data. I encourage you to explore these options and discover how Alimentor can improve your co-parenting experience.

Tomasz Domański

Alimentor Author

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How secure is my data with Alimentor 2?
    Alimentor 2 leverages Apple's iCloud infrastructure for robust security and privacy. Your records are stored securely in your own private iCloud container, inaccessible even to Alimentor developers, guaranteeing total confidentiality.
  2. Can I edit the data shared with me through iCloud Sync?
    No, shared data is in read-only mode to maintain clear responsibility and data integrity.
  3. Can I share Alimentor data with someone who doesn't use Apple devices?
    Yes, through CalSync, you can export data to external calendars, accessible by non-Apple users.
  4. How often should I generate reports?
    This depends on your individual co-parenting needs; monthly reports are common.
  5. What happens if I run out of iCloud storage?
    You may need to purchase additional storage through Apple. If you need more space to store your data in iCloud, refer to this Apple Support article about managing your iCloud storage.