Three words that seldom go together: “kids” and “long journeys”.

We’ve all tried numerous ways of trying to keep them entertained, but there are only so many times you can play ‘I Spy’ without going a bit mad.

So to help on any long journeys over half term, whether in the car or on the plane to somewhere sunny, we’ve rounded up some of the best apps and iGames to keep the little ones occupied.

1. KIDS match’em

Sometimes the simplest games are the best. And the KIDS match’em app certainly falls into that category. This addictive game is specially designed for children and is a great way to improve their short term memory.

2. Talking Tom Cat

Is your child upset about leaving their pet cat behind when they go on holiday? Well, fear not. Although slightly less fluffy than the real thing, the Talking Tom Cat app repeats everything you say, and responds to touch so your little one is sure to have hours of fun petting and poking him.

3. Draw Something

Draw Something is another addictive game that the whole family can enjoy together. The app is a bit like Pictionary and (as the name suggests) involves lots of drawing and guessing – a great way to kill a few hours on the plane.

4. Toca Boca

Whether they like cars, music or building things, Toca Boca has a wide selection of games to choose from. Kids will be able to create their own hair salon, make a cool robot or become a doctor for the day – all on the same journey.

5. Cut the Rope

The name says it all. Simply cut the rope to feed candy to a cute looking monster – what could be better than that? The app has had over 400-million downloads around the world and kids absolutely love it. Grab it here.

Watching iPad by Jencu via Flickr

6. Math Bingo

A fun game is even better when you can disguise a bit of education into it, so Math Bingo is a great option. After plenty of adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing, they’ll return from their holiday better at sums than Carol Vorderman (perhaps).

7. Monster Flip

Another app that features monsters is Monster Flip. The hours will fly by as your child plays this highly addictive game. Choose from several levels of difficulty to score points by lining up three monsters in a row.

8. Where’s my Water?

Created by Disney, this fun app features the lovable Swampy the Alligator and consists of hundreds of water themed puzzles. After a few hours playing this game, they’ll be there before they know it.

9. Rattleband!

Headphones are highly recommended for the Rattleband app unless you want to drive your fellow passengers absolutely crazy! The app features four classic children’s musical instruments and is a great way to encourage kids to make their own music.

10. 123 Color HD: Talking Coloring Book

This app is one for younger kids and features over 200 different images to colour in with the tap of a finger (quite literally). A great alternative to large colouring books, there will be no felt tip pen marks to clean up afterwards.

How do you keep the kids occupied on long journeys?

Images: FlickingerbradJencu