Why, oh why must summer come to an end? As much as I’ve tried to put it out of my mind that these are the last couple of weeks that I have with my kids at home, I am well aware that it’s time for me to get my butt back into gear with back-to-school season.

Because we are a household divided, recently I’ve been researching apps for both Apple and Android platforms.  The hubs has an iPhone while I will be sticking with my Android phone and tablet (thank you very much!), and the kids have iPad2, iPod, and a Kindle Fire.  So, as you can imagine, I like to find apps that work for both operating platforms to please everyone in the house.  I’ve got 8 apps to share with you that I think will give you a great kick-start to the impending back-to-school season.  If you end up trying any out, drop me a comment and let me know your thoughts!

Apple apps:

• iHomework ($.99) – This is a great all-around app for students who want to keep themselves organized during the school year.  Users can keep up with schedules, grades, work assignments, to-dos, teacher information, and more.  Set reminder notifications of tests, things to do and more even without the app being open.  Keep track of course information including GPA and grade calculations.
• Stanza (free) – Enjoy over 50,000 book titles and literary works at your fingertips!  Easily download your selections to your device or computer.
• Creatures of Light (free) – An absolutely fantastic app that will excite your little learner about science.  This is a one-of-a-kind app that features stunning photo galleries and interactive animations while exploring the natural phenonmenon of light and how creatures of the Earth are related to it. Kids will enjoy learning about how fireflies produce light and how ocean life are illuminated by light.
• Cooliris (free) – An app created for the visual learner.  Find stunningly clear photos on just about every subject that a teacher could possibly lecture about!  A nice app that will give you visual representation in a beautiful display.

Android apps:

• School Schedule (free) – A simple app that gives students flexibility to set reminders, notifications, and keep their school schedule organized and updated.  Allows the option to create multiple schedules – great for managing multiple children’s school schedules.
• MyHomework Now & School Alerts (free) – A great tool that gives parents the ability to stay connected with their child’s school by managing school schedules and notifications.  Receive notifications and alerts from schools who are using the app as part of their communication with parents.
• Assignment Planner (free) – Easily keep track of assignments, tests, projects, grades, and more.  Offers the ability to stay organized and informed about school subjects and goals.
• NASA App (free) – Give your little astronomer a look into the great subject of space with this vivid app packed full of images, videos, mission information, and fun facts from NASA.

Happy app-ing!