Top apps to entertain the kids this holiday

TORONTO – ‘Tis the season for long car rides to see out-of-town family members, lengthy dinner parties, and long days filled with last-minute holiday shopping.

For most kids that means boredom – which can put a strain on parents. Luckily there are plenty of apps to keep kids entertained throughout the busy holiday season.

Cut the Rope: Holiday Gift (Free)

Cut the Rope has been a smartphone staple for mobile gaming lovers since its release in 2010. The holiday edition allows users to play through new levels of the skills game, but with a festive winter theme.

Cut the Rope is rated ages four and up.

Available on iOS and Android devices.

NORAD Santa Tracker (Free)

Even though it isn’t an app, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Tracks Santa program is a holiday staple for kids who celebrate Christmas. The website – which is optimized for tablets running iOS or Android – allows users to play games, explore a 3D map of the world, and listen to music.

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This site is perfect for families traveling on Christmas Eve, as kids can follow Santa live on his journey around the world.

Shaw Go Treehouse and Shaw Go YTV (Free for Shaw Cable and Shaw Direct customers)

Shaw Cable subscribers now have access to on-demand kids programming from both YTV and Treehouse with two separate Shaw Go apps. Kids can watch their favourite shows – including SpongeBob Square Pants, Toopy & Binoo and Dora the Explorer – for free with an Internet connection.

Both apps are available on iOS and Android devices.

Shaw is the parent company of Global News.

Grinchmas! ($0.99)

Everyone’s favourite Dr. Seuss holiday character comes to life in this interactive game where users throw snowballs or presents down to the Whos in Who-Ville. The game even features two modes – one where the Grinch is mean and another where he is merry.

Rated ages four and up.

Available on iOS devices.

Hanukkah Puzzles (Free)

This Canadian-made Hanukkah app allows users to pick their own photos from their device’s camera or Facebook to turn them into a festive puzzle. With eight levels of difficulty, kids as young as four can play.

Available for iOS devices.

Angry Birds Seasons ($0.99)

Another mobile gaming classic, Angry Birds Seasons gives users a new experience with flying birds and angry pigs. Though the game allows users to play through all of the seasons, the winter level brings a holiday feel to the game.

Rated ages four and up.

Available on iOS and Android devices.