Check out Google’s web app store for the Chrome browser

In the world of iPhones and Androids, it’s hard to imagine that some of us don’t own a smartphone. So many applications and advances have been made in the way of smartphones to make our lives easier that those of us that have to go without feel left out from time to time. Luckily for us, Google has come out with its own Web App store for the Google Chrome web browser. The Web App store allows Chrome users to download different apps for their browser in a variety of different categories, both free and paid. The best part? You get to use them on a full size computer screen rather than a tiny phone!

Family apps

The Family Application section comes stocked with games and helpful tools for families with children of all different age ranges. Most applications will even mention in their description what the intended age range is so you don’t end up buying an application that is either too advanced or not enticing enough for your children. Some apps to check out:

• MeeGenius creates a library for your children on your very own computer. MeeGenius’ shelves come preloaded with six amazingly illustrated books, including the classic tale of the Three Little Pigs. Each book comes with an audio option and as you listen, it highlights the words to help you follow along. Visit the bookstore to read more books separated in categories of Fairy Tales, Fables, and Animals. All of the books are free to read and there are so many that everyone will find a favorite.
• Fraboom is the greatest and only online children’s museum. I suggest first downloading the free application to see if it is something that your child is interested in before you get the paid version. Fraboom is full of educational games and fun facts. One of the games lets you learn interesting trivia about past presidents like what were their favorite foods or what sports were they into. Additional features are interactive books, live classes, and Fraboom TV. The paid version unlocks additional games and features.

Fun apps for mom

Google Apps also offers plenty of applications to make your life more manageable and more fun. The different categories include games, entertainment, shopping, news, productivity and social & communication among others. Some fun apps that will increase your online enjoyment:

• GoodFood – Just looking at the finished dishes will convince you that this app is right for you. With 17,976 users and a 5 star rating, GoodFood gives its users healthy recipes that you a trust to be delicious. Not only are you provided with over 100 enticing recipes, GoodFood has Cookery Videos uploaded which share techniques like how to prepare mussels and how to prepare a whole fish.
• Amazon Window Shop – This application shows you the best of Amazon all in one window. The main screen has six different categories: Electronics, Books, Kindle Store, Televisions & Video, Toys & Games, and Amazon Video on Demand. You can also click down the Browse list to search for all bestsellers, new releases & pre-orders, movers & shakers, most gifted, and most wished for. I personally prefer the layout of the application over the actual Amazon.com website because I feel as though everything is easier to find and it’s also just more aesthetically pleasing!
• Your favorite social media and communication apps – Download an app of your favorite social media network so that all of your networks are on your main app page. Download Twitter, Facebook, TweetDeck, or others to get the most out of your social networking!

Kelly O’Hara is an Intern at Mom Central Consulting.

Mom Central