Collection: Kids Smart Watch

In an age where technology is deeply intertwined with everyday life, the question of when to introduce children to smartphones is becoming increasingly complex for parents and caregivers. While smartphones offer unparalleled connectivity and access to information, they also come with a myriad of concerns, especially when placed in the hands of young, impressionable minds. From exposure to inappropriate content to the addictive nature of social media, the risks are manifold.

Communication is Vital

However, recognizing the necessity for children to have a means of communication as they gain independence, many parents are exploring alternative options. Enter the world of kids smart watches —a burgeoning market catering to the unique needs of young users while providing a bridge between traditional communication devices and full-fledged smartphones.

Alternatives to Smartphones

Our journey into this realm began with a mission: to find viable alternatives to smartphones that would empower children while addressing parental concerns. Testing 14 smartwatches designed specifically for kids allowed us to delve deep into their functionalities, usability, and safety features.

The surge in interest in kids' smartwatches is not without reason. With growing awareness about the potential pitfalls of early smartphone use, parents are seeking solutions that offer communication capabilities without exposing their children to the full gamut of digital distractions. This trend has been further fueled by alarming warnings from experts, including the surgeon general's cautionary note in 2023 regarding the detrimental effects of social media on children's mental health.

A Smart Watch Provides Safety With Less Risk

Yet, in our exploration, we discovered that while kids' smartwatches present promising alternatives, they are not without their trade-offs. From limited functionality compared to smartphones to concerns about data privacy and security, each device comes with its own set of considerations.

However, despite these challenges, we identified several standout options that offer a compelling balance of features and safety. These include models with robust parental controls, GPS tracking capabilities for added peace of mind, and built-in communication tools tailored to the needs of young users. By carefullyevaluating factors such as durability, ease of use, and battery life, we curated a selection of recommendations aimed at guiding parents through the maze of choices.

Tracking your child's movements and online activities can be a contentious issue, with arguments for both vigilant oversight and respecting their privacy and autonomy. However, we believe that finding the right balance is key. By leveraging technologies such as GPS tracking and geofencing, parents can ensure their child's safety while still allowing them the freedom to explore and grow.

Similarly, implementing robust parental controls can mitigate many of the risks associated with digital devices. From restricting access to certain apps and websites to setting screen time limits, these tools empower parents to shape their child's digital habits in a responsible manner.

When the time does come to introduce your child to their first smartphone, careful consideration is paramount. Opting for models specifically designed for kids, with features such as restricted access to social media andcomprehensive parental controls, can help mitigate many of the concerns associated with early smartphone use.

If you're hesitant to give your child a smartphone but still want them to have a means of communication as they gain independence, you're not alone—and you do have alternatives.

In today's digital age, finding the right kids smart watch can be a daunting task. With a multitude of options flooding the market, parents are left wondering which features matter most and how to ensure their child's safety and engagement. At myFirst, we've done the research to help you make an informed decision... and usedthat research to make a product that we believe is the best on the market. Here’s our comprehensive guide to finding the best Kids Smart Watch in 2024.

Testing 14 Smartwatches

After testing 14 smartwatches designed for kids, alongside our own experiences with tweens and teens, we've seen a growing interest in these devices. Parents and caregivers are increasingly considering them as a way to postpone their child's first smartphone, particularly in light of mounting concerns. In 2023, the surgeon general issued a warning about the potential negative impact of social media on children's mental health and well-being.

While no smartwatch is without its compromises, we've identified a few standout options. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive guide to tracking your kids (if you choose to) and optimizing parental controls, along with insights on selecting the right wireless carrier.

Why Choose a Kids Smart Watch?

A Kids Smart Watch isn't just a trendy accessory; it's a powerful tool that can provide peace of mind for parents and offer various benefits for children. Here are some reasons why you might consider investing in a Kids Smart Watch:

Safety: GPS tracking allows parents to monitor their child's location.

Communication: Stay connected with your child through calls and messages.

Education: Some watches offer educational games and features to promote learning.

Independence: Teach your child responsibility by giving them a sense of independence.

Key Features to Consider

When shopping for a Kids Smart Watch, several key features should be at the top of your list. Here’s what to look for:

• Safety and Privacy GPS Tracking: Ensure the watch has accurate GPS tracking to monitor your child's location in real-time. Geofencing: Look for watches that allow you to set safe zones and receive notifications if your child leaves these areas.

• Parental Controls: Opt for watches with robust parental control settings to manage contacts and restrict internet access.

• Design and Durability, Especially Water Resistance: Kids are prone to accidents. A water-resistant watch can withstand spills and splashes.

• Durable Materials: Choose a watch made from high-quality materials that can handle rough play and everyday wear and tear.

• Comfortable Fit: Ensure the watch is comfortable to wear, with an adjustable band to fit growing wrists.

• Functionality and Usability Battery Life: A longer battery life means less frequent charging and more peace of mind.

• User-Friendly Interface: Look for a watch with an intuitive interface that is easy for children to navigate.

• Additional Features: Consider watches with extra features like step tracking, alarms, and reminders to make the watch more versatile.

Our Top Picks

After extensive research and testing, here is myFirst's top picks for the best Kids Smart Watches in 2024:

1. The myFirst Fone R2

This watch allows for communication and location tracking without the distractions of games.  Among the models we've evaluated, the myFirst Fone R2 stands out for its user-friendly interface for kids and ease of management for adults. It's also competitively priced. However, its child-friendly graphics might not appeal to older kids, and texting can be less straightforward compared to square-faced model. Our testing revealed it to be more reliable and of higher quality than most other kids smartwatches on the market.

Others that we considered include the models below:

Garmin Bounce: This watch can monitor workouts, including swimming, as well as track sleep, steps, and location. It offers basic puzzles and math games for kids and incentivizes them to complete chores. However, its communication features are limited. The watch doesn't support real-time phone calls; instead, your child can only send preset text messages and voice recordings, which you can access through the Garmin Jr. app.

Cosmo JrTrack 2 SE: Despite being the most affordable kids smartwatch we tested at the time, it comes with high subscription costs and requires a minimum upfront commitment. We found its interface to be somewhat cumbersome and its camera resolution to be less sharp compared to the Garmin Bounce. At one point, it also experienced an unexplained glitch that prevented message sending for a few minutes. The watch lacks games or engaging apps, which means fewer distractions but also limited appeal for kids.

The Right One for Your Family

Choosing the right kids smart watch can be a challenging decision, but by focusing on safety, design, and functionality, you can find a watch that meets your child's needs and gives you peace of mind. Our top picks offer a range of features to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring there’s a perfect option for every family.

For the past six years, myFirst has been rigorously testing smartwatches, phones, and various communication, educational, and creative tools designed for children in our quest to develop the best, most helpful, and most fun technology for society's most vulnerable members. Most of our team members are parents themselves, and have a vested interest in finding the most effective gadgets for staying connected with them, while minimizing distractions. We truly believe that we have developed the best and safest smartwatch technology for kids, and are proud to stand behind our product.

The MyFirst Smartwatch Difference

Focus Mode: Optimize your child’s learning and homework time with the wearable smartwatch’s myFirst Focus Mode. Easily schedule Focus Mode periods through the myFirst app to ensure your child stays on track during school hours and dedicated study times. This school mode will help keep your kids on track.

Add Friends: Enhancing Bluetooth connectivity is simple with myFirst. Kids can use the radar scanner to find and connect with nearby myFirst watch users. This feature is perfect for families with multiple children, allowing them to stay in touch effortlessly. Parents can oversee and manage their child's friend connections directly through the app, providing an added layer of security.

Backup & Sync: Keep your important data safe with myFirst's wireless service with LTE. Enjoy 1GB of free cloud storage for backing up your watch settings, photos, videos, and messages. This ensures that all your cherished memories and crucial information are securely stored and easily retrievable.

Upgrades: At myFirst, we are committed to continuously improving your experience. Our regular firmware and app updates are delivered via OTA (Over-The-Air), ensuring that your device benefits from the latest enhancements and features for optimal performance and user satisfaction.

Kids Smart Watch FAQs

Which Kids Smart Watch is Best?

When selecting the best kids smart watch, several factors need to be considered, including safety features, communication options, and durability. Among the top contenders are the myFirst R2, TickTalk 5, and Gizmo Watch 3.

• myFirst R2: This model is praised for its robust GPS tracking, comprehensive communication features (text, calls, video), and durability. It is designed to withstand daily wear and offers excellent safety features, including real-time location tracking and parental controls. It’s even available on Amazon!

• TickTalk 5: Known for its extensive feature set, including video calling, messaging, and a variety of educational apps, the TickTalk 5 also excels in safety with its secure communication channels and GPS tracking.

• Gizmo Watch 3: This watch focuses on essential features like calls and GPS tracking, providing a reliable, straightforward option for younger children. It is well-regarded for its ease of use and robust build.

Choosing the best kids smart watch depends on your child’s needs and your preferences. Look for a watch that balances safety, communication, and fun while fitting your budget. Many parents want to shy away from an expensive Android or Apple Watch for their kids’ first device, and we couldn’t agree more.

Can a Kid Have a Smartwatch Without a Phone?

Yes, a child can have a smartwatch without a phone. Many smartwatches designed for kids, such as the TickTalk 5 and the myFirst 5, operate independently of a smartphone. These devices have built-in cellular capabilities or Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing them to make calls, send texts, and use GPS tracking without needing a separate phone. They can even send emojis and other reactions, just like with a smart phone.

These smartwatches often come with their own phone number and data plan, meaning that parents can manage communication directly through the watch. This feature provides convenience for parents who want to stay connected with their child without needing a separate device. No selfies, no unsafe behavior, just a fluid touchscreen with a SIM card and voice messages! Looking to save? There are usually great back to school sales for smartwatches which allow you to more cheaply keep your kids safer online! Whatever your kids ages are, the myFirst smartwatch is a kid-friendly option far cheaper than an iPhone or other cell phone. And unlike many cheap options, the myFirst smartwatches come with pedometers, parent-approved settings, and even more useful options!

Should I Get My 8-Year-Old a Smart Watch?

Deciding whether to get an 8-year-old a smartwatch depends on various factors including their maturity level, your family's needs, and the specific features of the smartwatch.

An 8-year-old can benefit from a smartwatch in several ways:

• Safety: Smartwatches with GPS tracking can help parents monitor their child’s location, providing peace of mind.

• Communication: Features like calling and messaging allow for easy communication between parents and children.

• Learning and Entertainment: Many smartwatches come with educational apps and games that can be engaging and beneficial.

Ensure that the smartwatch you choose is appropriate for their age and offers features that match your expectations for safety and functionality.

How Much is a Gizmo Watch Per Month?

The Gizmo Watch 3 typically costs around $10 per month for its service plan. This fee covers the cost of cellular service, which enables the watch’s calling, messaging, and GPS tracking features.

It’s worth noting that there may be additional costs for activation or equipment. The monthly fee includes access to the Gizmo Watch’s features, and some providers offer family plans or discounts for multiple devices.

Does the Gabb Watch 3 Count Steps?

Yes, the Gabb Watch 3 includes a step-counting feature. This allows parents and kids to track daily physical activity, encouraging a healthy lifestyle. The step counter can be a fun way for children to stay active and see their progress throughout the day.

While the primary focus of the Gabb Watch 3 is on communication and safety, the step-counting feature adds an element of fitness tracking that complements its other functionalities.

Is TickTalk 5 Waterproof?

The TickTalk 5 is designed to have limited water resistance. It has an IP67 rating, which means it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for a short period of time.

This level of water resistance makes the TickTalk 5 suitable for most daily wear, including during activities where it might get wet, such as washing hands or playing in the rain. However, it is not designed for prolonged exposure to water, so it’s best to avoid submerging it for extended periods.

Why Choose a Kids Smart Watch?

Choosing a kids smart watch offers numerous benefits for both children and parents. Here’s why they can be a great choice:

• Safety: With features like GPS tracking and emergency SOS, smartwatches provide an extra layer of safety and help parents keep track of their child’s location.

• Communication: Smartwatches enable easy communication through calls, texts, and sometimes video chats, allowing for quick contact between parents and children.

• Educational and Fun: Many smartwatches come with apps and games that are both educational and entertaining, helping to keep kids engaged while learning.

Overall, a kids smart watch can enhance safety, connectivity, and fun, making it a valuable addition to a child’s daily routine.

Can JrTrack 3 Record Videos or Make Video Calls?

The JrTrack 3 does not support video recording or video calling. It focuses on providing essential features such as GPS tracking, voice calls, and messaging.

For families seeking a smartwatch with video calling capabilities, models like the TickTalk 5 might be more suitable. The TickTalk 5 offers video calling along with a range of other features, making it a versatile option for keeping in touch with your child.

What Are the Parental Control Features on TickTalk 5?

The TickTalk 5 offers a robust set of parental control features to ensure a safe and controlled experience for children. These features include:

• Contact Management: Parents can approve or block contacts, ensuring that children only communicate with trusted individuals.

• Location Tracking: Real-time GPS tracking allows parents to monitor their child’s whereabouts.

• Communication Controls: Parents can manage the types of messages and calls their child can receive and make.

• Activity Monitoring: The watch provides insights into your child’s activity and usage, helping you stay informed about their interactions and screen time.

These controls are designed to give parents peace of mind while allowing children to enjoy the benefits of their smartwatch.

Does the Gabb Watch 3 Have GPS Tracking?

Yes, the Gabb Watch 3 includes GPS tracking as one of its key features. This allows parents to monitor their child’s location in real time, providing reassurance and ensuring that they are safe.

The GPS feature is particularly useful for tracking a child's movements throughout the day, whether they are walking to school, playing outside, or visiting friends. The Gabb Watch 3’s GPS tracking helps parents stay connected and informed about their child’s whereabouts.

What Age is Appropriate for a Child to Have a Smartwatch?

The appropriate age for a child to have a smartwatch can vary depending on the child's maturity, the features of the smartwatch, and parental preferences. Generally, smartwatches are suitable for children as young as 5 or 6 years old, with features tailored to different age groups.

For younger children, focus on devices with basic communication and safety features. For older children, smartwatches with additional functionalities like GPS tracking, educational apps, and more advanced communication options may be more appropriate. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the child's needs and the features offered by the smartwatch.

What Are the Safety Features of the Vodafone Neo Smart Kids Watch?

The Vodafone Neo Smart Kids Watch is designed with several safety features to protect and keep children connected:

• GPS Tracking: Provides real-time location tracking, allowing parents to monitor their child’s movements.

• Geofencing: Sends alerts if the child leaves a designated safe area.

• SOS Button: Allows children to send an emergency alert to pre-set contacts with a single press.

• Call and Messaging: Enables communication with approved contacts, ensuring safe interactions.

• Durability: Built to be robust and water-resistant, making it suitable for active children.

These safety features make the Vodafone Neo Smart Kids Watch a reliable choice for parents seeking to enhance their child’s security while providing them with a fun and interactive device.

Best Smart Watches for Kids: Combining Safety, Entertainment, and Communication

Are you on the hunt for the best smart watches for kids? Our selection of smart watches for children offers a comprehensive range of features tailored to the unique needs of young users. These devices are designed to provide both safety and enjoyment, making them an essential tool for parents looking to stay connected with their children.

Our smart watches for kids come packed with advanced functionalities that ensure peace of mind for parents while keeping children engaged and entertained. These watches facilitate easy communication through text messaging, voice calls, and video chats. With built-in GPS tracking, parents can monitor their child’s location in real time, enhancing safety and security. Whether your child is exploring new activities or simply enjoying their day, our smart watches offer the perfect balance of safety, convenience, and fun.

Children’s i Watch

Often referred to as a children’s i watch, this category of smart watches is designed specifically for young users. The myFirst 5 stands out in this segment as an exceptional choice. As a leading kids' GPS tracker watch, the myFirst 5 combines advanced GPS tracking with robust communication features to ensure your child’s safety and connectivity.

This children’s GPS watch provides accurate location tracking, giving parents peace of mind with its real-time updates. Its multiple GPS tracking methods allow for precise monitoring of your child’s movements. With its user-friendly interface and durable design, the myFirst 5 is considered the best smartwatch for kids on the market today. It integrates functionality with a fun, engaging experience, making it a top choice for parents and children alike.

Best Kids GPS Watch and Smart Watch

When it comes to the best kids GPS watch and smart watch, the myFirst 5 is a standout option. It combines the latest in GPS technology with a range of smart features, ensuring that both safety and connectivity are top priorities. This device allows for seamless communication through calls, texts, and video chats, while also offering reliable GPS tracking.

The myFirst 5 smart watch is designed to be both durable and functional, featuring a robust build that can withstand the everyday activities of an active child. Its GPS tracking capabilities are enhanced with multiple tracking modes, ensuring accurate and reliable location updates. This makes it an ideal choice for parents who want to keep a close eye on their child's whereabouts while providing them with a fun and interactive device.

Children’s GPS Watch

When considering a children’s GPS watch, it's important to choose a device that combines reliable tracking with user-friendly features. The myFirst 5 excels in this regard, offering comprehensive GPS tracking capabilities that provide accurate location data. This children’s smart watch is not just about tracking; it’s designed to keep kids connected and engaged with a range of interactive features.

Equipped with high-quality GPS technology, the myFirst 5 ensures that parents can monitor their child's location with ease. Its design is tailored for children, with a focus on durability and ease of use. This makes it a top contender for the best children's GPS watch, offering both safety and functionality in one compact device.

Kids' GPS Watch and Children’s Watch Phone

For those looking for a kids' GPS watch and children’s watch phone, the myFirst 5 is an excellent choice. It integrates GPS tracking with the ability to make calls, send texts, and even video chat, providing a comprehensive communication tool for kids. This smart watch helps parents stay connected with their children while giving kids the freedom to explore and enjoy their activities.

The device’s GPS tracking feature allows parents to keep track of their child’s location at all times, while its communication capabilities ensure that staying in touch is simple and effective. The myFirst 5 is designed to be both functional and engaging, making it a versatile option for families.

Best Children’s Smart Watch with GPS Tracker

When searching for the best children’s smart watch with a GPS tracker, look no further than the myFirst 5. This advanced smart watch offers a robust GPS tracking system combined with a suite of smart features. It is designed to keep your child safe while providing them with a fun and interactive experience.

The myFirst 5 features multiple GPS tracking methods, ensuring that you can accurately monitor your child’s location. Its comprehensive safety features include real-time location updates and communication options, making it a top choice for parents who want the best for their children. This smart watch is recognized for its effectiveness and reliability, making it a leading option in the market.

Children’s Smart Watch

For a reliable and functional children’s smart watch, the myFirst 5 is an excellent option. This device offers a variety of features designed to keep kids connected and safe. With its integrated GPS tracking, communication capabilities, and durable design, it’s tailored to meet the needs of both children and parents.

The myFirst 5 provides a balance of safety and fun, making it a valuable tool for modern families. Its smart features ensure that parents can stay in touch with their children while providing kids with a device that supports their activities and interactions. This children’s smart watch is a practical choice for families seeking both connectivity and peace of mind.

Best Children’s Smart Watch with GPS Tracker for Kids

When looking for the best children’s smart watch with GPS tracker for kids, the myFirst 5 stands out as a premier choice. It offers advanced GPS tracking technology along with essential smart features that keep children safe and connected. This smart watch is designed to provide accurate location data and facilitate easy communication between parents and children.

The myFirst 5 is equipped with multiple GPS tracking options, ensuring reliable and precise location updates. Its combination of safety features and interactive elements makes it an ideal choice for parents who want to stay connected with their children while giving them the freedom to explore. This smart watch is widely recognized as one of the best available for kids, offering both functionality and reliability.

Children’s Smartwatch

The myFirst 5 is a top choice for those seeking a children’s smartwatch that offers a range of features designed to keep kids safe and engaged. With its advanced GPS tracking, communication capabilities, and durable design, this smartwatch provides a comprehensive solution for modern families.

This children’s smartwatch combines safety and fun, allowing parents to monitor their child’s location while providing them with a device that supports their activities and learning. The myFirst 5 stands out for its effectiveness, making it a preferred option for families looking for a reliable and interactive smartwatch for their children.

Sources:

FROM THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS| POLICY STATEMENT| NOVEMBER 01 2016 Media Use in School-Aged Children and Adolescents

National Telecommunications and Information Administration: Kids Online Health and Safety

Nemours® KidsHealth® : Online Safety