I've spent most of my kids' early years keeping them off devices, but eventually the pros of being connected start to outweigh the cons. As they grow up, having a way to communicate gives them freedom and gives me peace of mind.
Smartphones, though, come with a lot of baggage: distractions, endless group chats and social drama. For me, smartwatches are the perfect middle ground. They give kids a direct line to me without the investment (or distractions) of a full phone, making them an ideal first step into that kind of tech.
Having a watch strapped to their wrist is also a bonus, considering how many water bottles and sweatshirts end up in the lost and found on a regular basis. It could also motivate them to stay active, offering a gamified experience through step tracking and fitness challenges.
The term "smartwatch" is often used loosely when referring to kids. A quick Google or Amazon search will yield a wide range of results, from a $25 digital watch with a few games to a $250 Apple Watch that can track vitals and call 911 in an emergency.
For this guide, we're focusing primarily on smartwatches that help parents stay connected with their kids, rather than toy-like watches designed for entertainment or dedicated fitness bands that lack two-way communication. The latter are much simpler in terms of functionality and tend to be less expensive, making the decision process more straightforward than choosing among feature-rich GPS smartwatches that require greater parental involvement and even a separate cellular plan.
Kids' smartwatch vs. regular smartwatch
Though both may share many of the same functions, kids' smartwatches typically have fewer features than full-fledged smartwatches designed for adults. A child may not need an electrocardiogram feature, for instance, but GPS tracking and access to emergency contacts are essential. Kids' watches also come with built-in guardrails that parents can customize through a companion app on their phones.
Kids' smartwatches are also designed with their needs and interests in mind. Physically, they tend to be larger, more colorful and feature bigger buttons and screens for easier navigation. Even traditional smartwatch functions, such as fitness tracking, are adapted for children, with more attainable step goals and activity options that align with a child's lifestyle, making exercise tracking more engaging.
Real-time GPS tracking and two-way communication with parents are key features we look for in a smartwatch for kids. Vanessa Hand Orellana/CNET
Things to consider
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