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Mobile Apps to Keep Kids Occupied and Happy

 & Laarni Almendrala Ragaza Former Managing Editor, Hardware

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Buying Guide: Mobile Apps to Keep Kids Occupied and Happy

Apps to Keep Your Kids Occupied

Contents

As parents, we've all been there. As much as we love our kids, there are times when we just need a little peace and quiet. Maybe we're packing for a family trip, taking a business call, or trying to make dinner. Maybe we just need to go pee. But there they are, our precious spawn, asking for juice, whining about being bored, break-dancing on the stairs, or trying to disassemble the toaster. So what to do to keep them occupied?

I'd like to tell you that I send my own brood off to read the Encyclopaedia Britannica or put together a 2,000-piece puzzle of the Millennium Falcon when I need some time to myself, but that would be disingenuous. Instead, I tend to grab my tablet or smartphone, hand it to them, and say, "Have at it, boys." Judge all you want, but a quick survey of other parents in my circle of family, friends, and co-workers finds that I am not alone.

The good news is that there is a plethora of apps out there for Android, iOS, and even Windows Phone platforms to keep our kids occupied without ruining their minds. Some are educational, while others can help with hand-eye coordination. Okay, the last one is a stretch, but the point is, there are apps for all ages that will keep our kids engaged during those times we parents need to get things done.

While Angry Birds is the game app of choice for most (kids and adults included), and there are always the Hulu Plus and Netflix apps for watching TV shows or movies, there are other fun choices available. We've put together 10 of our favorite smartphone and tablet apps for kids, in order of age level (starting with those for younger kids). Check them to find some new favorites for you and your children. Oh, and you're welcome.—Next: Fruit Ninja - Stack the States >

About Our Expert

Laarni Almendrala Ragaza

Laarni Almendrala Ragaza

Former Managing Editor, Hardware

Laarni started her career with PC Magazine in 2000 as a staff editor for the Network Infrastructure team. Over the years, she took on several positions, usually within the realm of Hardware, including Associate Editor, Section Editor, PCMag Labs Director, and a brief stint as Reviews Editor for the Consumer Electronics team. Laarni earned a Master's Degree in Radio and Television from San Francisco State University. Why she didn't pursue that particular career path is a story best told over shots of tequila. In her (non-existent) spare time, Laarni enjoys watching sci-fi and procedural dramas, reading, jewelry-making, baking, and hanging out with her family. She also collects random pop culture trivia, and dreams of winning the lotto someday.

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