By Janice M Simon, The Organized Auntie
January 24, 2018


I realize that many of you are busy with the Google Arts & Culture app that is enabling everyone (with the exception of those of us in Illinois and Texas) discover and post your artistic dopplegangers online. But, after you're done exploring the art world, I offer you 10 cool new (or, new to you) apps to help you - and your nieces and nephews - get fit, invest, read more, travel on a budget, and even solve tough math problems. (Super Auntie cape sold separately)

Incentivize Your Workout

It's only three weeks into the new year, but some of our exercise goals may already be losing steam. No fear! These apps should help get you, and your nieces and nephews, get moving again. Incentives can go a long way.

Charity Miles. Let your workout help you and a charity. Track your distance with the app and you can earn money for one of the over 40 charities.

Achievement. For those who need a few shiny objects to workout, earn money by following through on your workout plan. Linked to your iPhone Health app, Achievement lets you earn money and points.

Build Your Portfolio

Stash App and Acorns App. Take the money you earned from the Achievement app and invest it. These two investment apps let you hit the stock market with a little as $5.00. These apps can also be educational for nieces and nephews if you show them how your small investments can grow.

Travel with Nieces and Nephews

Now that you’re banking a little extra money, take the nieces and nephews on a trip  - or go visit them.

Hopper. If you’re trying to figure out  the best time book flights as prices fluctuate, Hopper will tell you if a flight’s price is expected to go up or down before you take out that credit card.

Get the Flight Out (GTFO). If you want to surprise your nieces and nephews, check out flights leaving the night of, or early the next morning, and find last minute deals. The app was created by Hopper.

Access Good Books

Libby. Use your public library card to access ebooks and audiobooks. You can download books to read offline, or stream them. This should keep a niece or nephew busy while you figure out where he or she left the TV remote. Or better yet, pretend you didn't find it, and let the child keep reading or listening to their book.

Serial Reader. Do you have a goal of reading more books this year? Or, do you hope to introduce your older nieces and nephews to favorite classics, like Pride and Prejudice, The Three Muskateers and Little Women? All that's needed is 20 minutes a day! You'll get a new 20 minute installment of a classic book, daily. And it's free!

Help with Homework

Yes, spending time with the kids sometimes means going back to the books. At the very least, helping them with homework can give their parent(s) a well-deserved break.

Photo Math. Are you smarter than a fifth grader's math assignment? Either way, here's a little tip. Use Photo Math to take a photo of a math problem and the app will show you the answer - and more importantly, how to solve it. They don't call you a Savvy Auntie for nothing! 

Quizlet. This subscription app lets you create flashcards and study sets - and also has the option to use tools created by other students. The app covers a variety of subjects, including language arts and history. It's like you're helping them study, even after you've left.

Photo: Interstid