Jessica Nelson

I love them because they're not just another app you play on an iPad (or Kindle Fire), they have real tangible items that the kids get to play with. I was able to create a profile for each kid that is based around their likes and they have a special going on right now where I was able to buy a 12 month subscription for $19.99 with a free subscription to Homer. When there isn't a deal, it's $6.99 a month for 4 kids with Amazon prime ($9.99 without) or $2.99 a month for a single child ($4.99 without). The app has limits that you can set, such as having to read for 30 minutes before anything else unlocks as well as times during the day where the app won't work.

Earlier this month, we headed to one of Buffalo's newest craft distilleries,  Hartman's Distilling Co.. They have a ton of different options from craft cocktails made with their spirits, to mock-tails, wine and beer. They also have a super cozy "library" nook for you to sit at, complete with a super comfortable sofa and boardgames disguised as books. My husband ordered a beer, while I tried their lavender mule (which was delicious) and we ordered some food to share.

A new copy of Osmo Pizza Co game was gifted to us by Osmo The Osmo games are made for iPad and Kindle Fire, but what sets them apart from a regular app, is there are tangible game pieces that go along with the app. Check out the video below to see what it's like to set up the Osmo system and play the Pizza Co. Game. Be sure to check out Osmo's website because they're offering 20% off the Pizza Co. game for a limited time.

I thought I'd start a little series on the different technology things that I use everyday to make all aspects of my life, from parenting to household management, easier. This little hack has saved us because he can't access it between certain hours and we can set a time limit on apps that require a passcode to turn them off. To turn it on, while inside the app you're wanting to use it with, you just triple click either the home button or the side button depending on your phone. I'm constantly using it to use the flashlight to look for things or to have quick access to the Apple TV remote because our kids are constantly losing it.