5 Cool Android Apps With GPS Activities for Kids

Encouraging Outdoor Play with GPS Technology

It’s unfortunate to see children spending excessive time indoors, fixated on computers or video games when pleasant weather beckons. Fortunately, technology and the outdoors aren’t mutually exclusive; they can, in fact, complement each other.

Let's explore several GPS-based activities designed to motivate children to embrace fresh air and active play.

Initially, we’ll focus on options with an educational component. Learning can be enjoyable when combined with an Android device, a spirit of exploration, and the benefits of open space!

Discovering the Night Sky

Android phones can be utilized for stargazing. The Sky Map application, an astronomy tool for Android users, provides a fascinating way to learn about constellations.

This application leverages the phone’s GPS, compass, and time data to function effectively. It allows children to engage in stargazing as a captivating and educational pastime, eliminating the need for cumbersome books and charts.

Planning Educational Outings with Wikipedia

Many fondly recall childhood field trips – a welcome respite from classroom learning, offering fresh air and adventure. The Quickpedia app can help you locate nearby points of interest for enriching excursions.

By enabling discovery of nearby Wikipedia entries, you’re sure to find locations that are both interesting and educational for your children.

This app is also useful during road trips, allowing for spontaneous detours to explore nearby attractions. Wikipedia can indeed be a source of fun and learning.

The following GPS activities are geared towards pure enjoyment, though they can also offer educational benefits. The primary goal is to promote outdoor activity, exercise, and adventure.

A Modern Take on Follow the Leader

The "My Tracks" application for Android provides another avenue for engaging children with the outdoors.

A unique game can be created by recording a route with one person, then challenging others to follow the same path. The resulting journey could prove to be quite intriguing.

GeoPhoto Scavenger Hunt

Utilize My Maps Editor for Android to design a geophoto hunt. Google Maps’ My Maps feature allows for the creation of customized maps. The My Maps Editor, available for free on the Android Market, enables on-the-go map modification.

This app allows you to chart a course with designated points. Challenge the children to locate these points using only GPS coordinates, and have them capture a photograph at each location. This game promises to be a fun and engaging experience.

Designing a Personalized Geocaching Experience

Expand upon the previous idea by creating your own geocaching adventure. A recent article detailed geocaching with an Android phone, but you can tailor the experience to your preferences.

Provide the GPS coordinates for the initial location, where they’ll find a container holding the coordinates for the next. This approach offers greater control over hiding spots and the contents of the containers.

Ultimately, modern technology empowers us to inspire children to enjoy the outdoors. During warmer months, encourage them to step away from screens and embrace fresh air, exercise, and learning.

What innovative ways have you used technology to encourage children to spend time outside?