GPS watches for children are excellent tools to keep them safe, connected, and foster their independence. However, not all models offer the same features or security. In this guide, we’ll explain which features to prioritise when choosing one and provide practical tips for their use.
🛠️ Key Features for Your Child’s Safety
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Real-Time Location Tracking: The GPS should provide accurate updates so parents can easily locate their children. This is crucial for encouraging autonomy safely.
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Restricted Incoming Calls: Choose watches that allow blocking unknown calls to prevent unauthorised contacts.
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Emergency Button: The SOS function is essential. When pressed, the watch should send alerts to registered numbers.
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“Class Mode”: Configure the watch to disable functions during school hours to avoid distractions.
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Long Battery Life: While daily charging can become a habit, ideally, select a model with a 2–3 day battery life to avoid running out at critical moments.
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Secure Auto-Answer Calls: The “spy call” feature is controversial and can infringe on privacy. At Robin, we’ve implemented an automatic responder: when calling the child, the watch answers automatically without the option to hang up, ensuring communication in important situations.
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Integrated Torch: Useful for emergencies or nighttime activities.
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Alarms and Stopwatch: Perfect for managing daily routines and promoting punctuality.
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Step Counter: A fun tool to encourage physical activity.
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Digital and Analogue Time Display: Important for children to learn to read time in both formats.
🛡️ Digital Safety: What You Should Know Before Buying a GPS Watch for Kids
One of the main benefits of GPS watches for children is safety, but there are certain aspects parents should be aware of before choosing the right model.
📷 Can Photos or Videos Be Sent via Chat on GPS Watches?
Sending photos and videos among friends can lead to inappropriate use. Therefore, the Robin K1 GPS includes restrictions:
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Children can take photos with the watch’s camera.
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Images are stored only in the smartwatch’s memory.
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They cannot be sent via chat to other users or strangers.
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They can only be shared with the parents’ app, family, or guardians.
➡️ Benefit: This prevents the risk of sharing inappropriate images and maintains total parental control.
⚠️ WhatsApp on Children’s GPS Watches: Why Is It Dangerous?
WhatsApp is one of the most used messaging apps but is not safe for children on GPS watches. Here’s why:Tom’s Guide+2El País+2The Telegraph+2
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It’s intended for users over 16 years old. WhatsApp isn’t designed for children and can expose them to inappropriate content.
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Anyone can contact them. If the watch’s number is leaked or added to a group, they could receive messages from strangers.
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Risk of unwanted photos and videos. WhatsApp allows automatic sending of multimedia content.
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No parental control. Parents cannot filter messages or manage contacts.
🚫 Children’s GPS watches should NOT allow WhatsApp.
✅ Safe Alternative: Use the watch’s messaging app, where parents control the contacts.The Telegraph
🔥 Avoid Overheating and Rapid Battery Drain
Video calls may seem like an attractive feature, but on children’s GPS watches, they can cause issues:
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Excessive Heat: Prolonged video calls can heat the device, making it uncomfortable or even unsafe.
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Reduced Battery Life: These calls quickly consume the battery, leaving the watch inoperative when most needed.
✅ Tip: Prioritise models like the Robin K1, which limit excessive use of this feature or don’t include it to avoid these problems.
🎮 Games: Controlled Entertainment
Some GPS watches include games, which can be beneficial during waiting times but problematic if not well managed:
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Excessive Screen Time: Without control, children can get distracted at inappropriate times.
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Lack of Parental Supervision: Not all watches allow parents to see how much time the child spends playing.Xplora UK
✅ Tip: Choose watches with parental control over games. Some models allow setting time limits or even sending usage reports to parents.
💧 Durability and Water Resistance
Children are active, so the watch must be water-resistant, shockproof, and withstand daily wear. Also, ensure the straps are adjustable and comfortable for prolonged use.
✅ Conclusion: Safety and Independence in One Device
Choosing the best GPS watch for children requires evaluating both safety features and their impact on your child’s routine. Models like the Robin K1 stand out for their balance between technology, safety, and simplicity, offering peace of mind to parents and controlled independence to children.
🌟 Ready to Take the Next Step?
After reviewing all the options, features, and tips for choosing the best GPS watch for children, the most important thing is to select a device that offers you peace of mind and your child freedom with safety.
🎁 Designed by parents, thought for families.
👉 Buy your Robin Watch K1 GPS smartwatch now
