Life offers no shortage of times when doing adult things requires a patient child. But children and patience don’t really mix too well. The next time you’re waiting for a table at a restaurant, taking a lengthy car ride, or any other time you need to distract attention from how unbelievably boring what’s actually going on is, try these kid-friendly apps. They’ll love them, and so will you.
Angry Birds (Ages 4+)
If you haven’t downloaded this yet, just go do it now, no questions asked. Arguably the most popular gaming app out there, it’s easily worth a possibly endless amount of entertainment hours for parents and kiddos alike. iPhone/iPod Touch/Android: Free
Gube (Ages 4+)
It’s basically YouTube, but the kid-friendly version. Chock full of great, entertaining video clips where you never have to worry about the content. Apple Devices: $3.99
For lengthier videos, including popular movies and TV shows, I would also recommend the Netflix app. It’s free to use if you already have an account, and genre is broken down into a Children & Family section with 100 titles to choose from.
PAC-MAN (Ages 4+)
An old-school favorite that will still be a hit today. Nothing makes you want to play more than getting gobbled up by one of those ghosts. Apple Devices: Lite version is free, full version is $4.99, Android: $3.99
Lego 4+ (Ages 4-7+)
Build awesome Lego-inspired trucks with even more awesome add-on parts like helicopter blades, different wheels, and even legs; then drive them around to collect coins. The more coins you collect, the more Lego parts are “unlocked” and building continues. Recommended for ages 4-7, but even I quite enjoyed it, and I definitely don’t fall into that range. iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch: Free
Color & Draw HD (Ages 3-9+) *iPad only
Available only for the iPad, this virtual coloring book was one of the best coloring apps I found. Choose from an array of pre-drawn pictures to color in, or create your own drawing using a colorful palette, various brush options, and (virtual) stickers! The app even has a voice-over feature where that GPS lady shows up and encourages creativity and interest.
Does handing over your pristine smartphone to a small child make you nervous? Check out these cases that will withstand some serious handling.
- Otterbox Defender Series
- Ribbz – Protective Case for iPhone 4
- Platinum Series Case (Various Android Devices)