Whether you’re a working or a stay-at-home mother, you’ve probably got more errands and tasks than you can keep up with -- doctor’s appointments, school projects, shopping trips and more. Good news, tech-savvy moms: Google Play has apps that can help.
1. Cozi Family Organizer
This app helps you manage your family’s schedule on the go. Keep everyone on the same page with shopping lists, to-do lists, a shared calendar and even a family journal. By organizing the calendar from a central location, everyone in the family can access it. With the Cozi Family Organizer app, you'll also receive reminders for upcoming appointments, chores, and meetings by email or text. That way, you won't miss a soccer practice or an important school event. And whether you use a Mac or a PC, you can still share info among family members.
Quick Tip: While you're at the grocery store, you can retrieve a shopping list, cross off items and easily add new ones. No more coming home only to realize that you forgot to pick up what you went to the store to buy in the first place.
2. The Weather Channel
Busy moms always need to be prepared, so make sure you start the day off right by checking the weather report. The Weather Channel app features interactive weather maps that are customizable and offer the functionality of Google Maps, allowing you to display layers such as radar, clouds, UV index, rainfall and more. The notification bar displays the current temperature as well as severe weather alerts. You’ll also receive detailed weather conditions and forecasts so you can plan ahead for the week.
Quick Tip: The “find me” function allows you to get weather forecasts wherever you are, or you can search by city, ZIP code, street address or landmark, in case you’re traveling and need to pack the right essentials.
3. RedLaser
If you hardly have enough time to shop for your family, you probably have even less time to hunt for bargains. This app allows you to shop smarter and more efficiently by searching for the lowest prices, locating good deals locally and online. The RedLaser scans hundreds of thousands of retailers to produce the best results -- including good prices from Buy.com, Amazon and eBay.
Quick Tip: RedLaser uses state-of-the-art barcode recognition that can read virtually any barcode. If you're shopping in a hurry, let his app do some quick research so you can buy what you need without wasting time on sorting through price comparisons yourself.
4. Recipe Search
If standing in front of an open refrigerator trying to figure out what to make for dinner is a common occurrence in your household, the Recipe Search app is here to help. Simply type in the ingredients you see in your fridge, and the app will quickly find a recipe that incorporates them. With more than 70,000 recipes available, you’re sure to find something great for every meal. You can also read reviews about a recipe to see if it’s something you want to make, create your own recipes and share them with others, and get cooking tips and tricks in the forums.
Quick Tip: Cooking for guests or family members who have special diets? You can easily search for recipes that fit any diet, including diabetic, vegetarian and gluten-free.
5. Yoga Workout Planner
Every mom needs some private time to unwind, and the benefits of yoga are well known. Thanks to this app, you’ll be mindful of your need to relax, stretch and contemplate until the next task or errand beckons. The Yoga Workout Planner app helps your body with movement and balance, and also enhances focus and concentration. Whether you're a beginner or a longtime practitioner, this app will get you in the groove with animated yoga sessions that include detailed instructions and voice narration.
Quick Tip: You can choose a 15- or 30-minute session, so whether you have a packed schedule or a little room to breathe, there’s a yoga session that fits perfectly into your schedule.