In today's technology-driven world, when and how to teach technology to kids has become a hot topic of discussion among parents. While smartphones are often seen as the go-to device for staying connected, many parents are now considering smartwatches as a more suitable alternative for their children.
“If you've been putting off giving your child a smartphone, a child-safe smartwatch is a great option – it helps you stay connected, allows you to see where your child is, and gives you peace of mind that your child is safe,” suggests Julie Lause, a family technology expert, educator, and mom who creates online resources to help parents.
Why choose a smartwatch for your child?
Smartwatches designed specifically for kids are equipped with features that prioritize safety, communication and health monitoring without the distractions and risks associated with smartphones.
“Watches made for adults aren't 100% safe for kids,” Rouse explains. “They come with distractions like notifications, the internet, and games, so parents have to be very careful to age-restrict their kids from using the devices. If you want your kids to have a (mostly) offline childhood, but still stay connected, get a watch made just for them.”
These devices allow parents to track their children's location, set safety zones, and stay in touch through calls and messages, making them a practical option for families.
Encourage self-reliance
Rouse highlighted the benefits of this approach, saying: “The bonus benefit? Because it connects you with the parents, they can allow their kids to gradually gain more independence in the real world – shopping in a different part of the store, going for a walk, taking public transportation to school, going to the grocery store with a shopping list – all of this, knowing that their kids are safe from the internet and the dangers that come with it.”
Rouse believes kids crave independence and autonomy in the real world, and a child-safe smartwatch can provide that in a safe and controlled way. “Kids will embrace an online life that gives them the freedom they crave,” he says. “But it's full of dangers they can't protect themselves from. What's better than that is real-world independence and age-restricted technology experiences. A child-safe watch is the best way to achieve that.”
If you're considering a smartwatch for your child, check out these popular options:
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COSMO's JrTrack 3 smartwatch for kids
JrTrack 3 is designed with safety and connectivity in mind. With GPS tracking, safety zones and SOS alerts, parents can keep an eye on their kids' whereabouts at all times, while calling and messaging features make it easy for kids to stay in touch with their parents.
Fitbit Ace LTE helps kids stay connected and active with in-app calling and messaging, GPS tracking, fitness tracking and more. The watch encourages kids to reach their fitness goals with fun challenges and rewards.
Garmin Bounce is a multi-functional kids smartwatch that combines safety features with interactive activities. With GPS tracking, chore management and fitness tracking, it's a great tool for parents to help develop healthy habits and responsibility in their children.
TickTalk5 Cellular Kids Smartwatch
This smartwatch offers great nationwide 4G network connectivity with no activation or cancellation fees, making it a reliable and versatile choice for parents and kids alike.
VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch
The VTech KidiZoom Smartwatch DX3 is a fun and educational smartwatch designed especially for young children, with a variety of interactive features. However, please note that the DX3 does not support iOS, Android, or GPS functionality.
While not specifically designed for kids, the Apple Watch SE is a versatile option with a wide range of features. Family Setup allows parents to set up and manage their child's watch, including Schooltime mode, GPS tracking, and communication limits. It also offers fitness tracking, education apps, and more.
