How iSaved My Sanity with the iPad

I think I downloaded my first toddler app during a major meltdown at a restaurant…or was it the grocery store? I’m not totally sure, since my first 15 months with Kingsley remains something of a blur–but as I discovered, an inventive iPhone or iPad app can sometimes be a lifesaver for both toddler and stressed-out mom. Of course we don’t want to completely rely on technology to constantly entertain our toddlers, but there are definitely times when it creates a welcome diversion–like when you’re trying to fold laundry, and you want to actually fold the laundry, not have your toddler “help” by unfolding each piece. Or when you’re trying to write a blog post and want your toddler to be engrossed in an activity so you can actually concentrate 😉 Knowing that all mothers of toddlers experience such moments, I’ve created a list of some of my own favorite apps, all of which have come in handy when I’ve needed them!

1. Endless Alphabet is a wonderful FREE app that goes beyond your normal toddler vernacular, with words like “gargantuan” and “yodel” to expand their vocabulary in a fun way. Kingsley loves the little monsters that act out the meaning, and each letter makes its phonetic sound when you “grab” it to spell the word.

2. PBS KIDS Video gives you over 1,000 videos from your child’s favorite PBS shows like Dinosaur Train, SUPER WHY!, Sesame Street and many more. They can browse and watch videos anywhere on the go as long as you have a 3G or WiFi connection. (FREE)

3. Montessorium has a few great apps based on the methodology of Montessori learning. They have an Intro to Letters, Intro to Math, Intro to Geography and an Alpha Writer app. I took advantage of an offer from iTunes to get the Intro to Geography app for free for Kingsley and she loved it so much I bought the Intro to Letters. Kingsley really enjoyed learning the countries through puzzles and the other challenges. ($3.99)

4. Buddy’s Timer is one of Luanne’s favorite apps. It’s a 1-60 minute visual timer app available for both iPhone and iPads. Perfect for children of all ages who need help with the frustrations of waiting or understanding “how much time is left.” ($1.99)

5. Toca Boca is Vicky‘s son Brendan’s favorite iPad app. It includes a variety of games that stimulate imagination and offer a fun way to learn about the world, not just teach ABC’s. The Toca Boca apps are awesome because of the cool technology, silly characters, and that they encourage kids and parents to play together (although not required!). Brendan’s favorite Toca Boca apps are Toca Robot Lab, Toca Kitchen and Toca Band. You MUST MUST play Toca Band!!! ($1.99)

6. Nick Jr Draw & Play is a really fun drawing app that allows your toddler to explore different brushes and patterns to create their custom artwork. It also has stickers and interactive characters they can play with and you can save their creations in a gallery. You can also share their artwork with friends and family via email or Facebook. ($2.99)

What’s your favorite app for the kids?