Potential Magazine Fall 2012 | Page 7

5 things 5 smartapps for parents apps smart phone 1 2 iWonder Surf Block adult sites automatically on iPhones, iPads and iTouch. Additional things we liked: You can filter specific sites and even disable internet browsing. With smart phones replacing cell phones, it’s nice to know we can still protect our kids. $.99 MyMobility Family Tracker Have the text and the phone call—teens can press the checkin button to let you know they are okay and their location. What teenager wants to take time away from their socializing to write a text? One button press and everyone is happy. It makes coordinating hectic pick-ups easier too. free 3 Find my iPhone Where’s my droid? Both of these apps are must haves in a world of couches, cluttered cars and kids that misplace our and their phones. Two features we love: (1) Even if the phone is on vibrate, the app will cause it to ring loudly. (2) The geo location can help you find where you left it if it’s out of earshot. free 4 5 Plugged In Providing detailed reviews of movies, TV shows and music, this app makes it easy to answer kids’ requests to see a specific movie. If you say “no,” it’s based on knowledge instead of gut, which is fair for everyone. free Life before text This app disables text and phone usage when a driver reaches speeds over 10 mph. Statistics show that over 50 percent of teens text while driving, and that deaths caused from vehicles and texting are six times higher than those involving alcohol. There are overrides, but you’ll be altered via email. $3.99 7