Things to Consider in a Kids GPS Tracker
Finding the right GPS tracker for your child can be a challenge. It’s helpful to understand what features are most vital to you and what limitations will be a deal breaker. Whether you’re looking for a kids GPS watch or a GPS tracking device you can conceal in a pocket, you need to know that the child tracking device will deliver.
Here are the top things to consider before deciding on a kids GPS tracker for your family.
Ease of Use
When you’re looking at GPS for kids, it’s important to make sure that the tracking device is comfortable and easy for your child to use.
Age Range
Many trackers have recommended ages for use. In addition to those guidelines, consider how big the buttons are, how easy it is for little fingers to respond to you or reach out for help, and whether or not they can put it on and take it off on their own. If you’re concerned about them removing the tracker, look for one with anti-tamper features.
Battery Life
The best-case scenario is a GPS tracker for kids that holds a charge for a few days. The more high-maintenance a tracker is (requiring daily charging), the more likely you are to leave home without it or end up with a dead battery.
Comfort
You don’t have any chance of tracking down your child if they’re not wearing the tracker. Make sure the material is flexible and non-irritating to tender skin, as well as adjustable enough to ensure a secure, but comfy fit.
Durability
Because your child will be taking the GPS tracker with them on all their adventures, it needs to be able to withstand a good amount of punishment.
Design
Seek out durable material that can take whatever your kid can dish out. Solid band construction and a protected or shatter-proof face can stand up to roughhousing, sports, and the wear and tear of daily use.
Water Resistance
Kids are always getting their hands dirty, which means they need to wash up regularly. While few GPS devices are totally waterproof, a quality tracking device should be able to handle incidental water and splashing.
Features
Kids GPS watches and trackers come with a wide variety of bells and whistles, so it helps to cut through the razzle-dazzle and identify the features that really keep your child safe.
Geo-fencing
You get extra peace of mind when you can set safety zones and perimeter alerts with a virtual fence. Geo-fencing lets you know your child is where they’re supposed to be and warns you if they leave the boundaries you’ve established.
Range
Whether you simply want to track your child around the neighborhood or keep tabs on them during a cross-country visit to Grandma, you need a GPS tracker that will work for the range and distance you require. Keep in mind that devices that rely only on Bluetooth often have limited range, so these are best for close-proximity tracking.
Alerts and Notifications
Kids GPS tracking devices come with different alert and notification settings. Some update location only every five minutes, and others let you check in every ten seconds. Consider how often you want updates and how much flexibility you need for different circumstances.
Panic Button
If your child is lost or scared, all they have to do is hit the SOS or panic alert button to immediately let you and other emergency contacts know they need help. For children that spend time on their own after school or on the way to extracurricular activities, this feature can make both you and your child feel safer.
Two-Way Communication
Sometimes all you need is the location of your child, but other times you want to be able to talk to them. If communication is important, a GPS wearable with two-way talk can be the perfect safety solution.
Games
One of the best ways to ensure your kid will keep their tracker on is to make it fun to wear. Some GPS devices for kids have games and reward systems to keep youngsters engaged and willing to sport them on a daily basis. Just make sure the games aren’t so distracting that it gets them in trouble at school.
Accuracy
A child-tracking device doesn’t do any good if it can’t accurately tell you where your child is. Look at how well a kids GPS tracker can pinpoint the child’s location and if there are any limitations on how often it updates or whether wearing it indoors inhibits accuracy.
Real-Time Tracking
When you need to know where your child is right now, there isn’t a moment to spare. If monitoring your child in real time is important, make sure the wearable you choose offers that feature and delivers reliably.
Indoor Use
It can be difficult to get a good read on locations when children are inside a building. Make sure the device you select meets your needs for indoor tracking, especially if your child will be spending a majority of time indoors.