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In today’s world, the smartwatches designed for children are more than just a form of entertainment, rather they have become essential devices for kids, that are able to ensure their safety and provide them means of imparting knowledge.
According to Children’s Smartwatch Research, by 2025, children smartwatches are predicted to have many features that include GPS navigation, control over the watch by parents, and learning applications today’s kids cannot resist the smartwatches as it also has a playful design.
In case you do wish to buy a smartwatch for your child, allow us to help you through the process, in this tutorial you will find the best five functioning gadgets for children and what features to observe in a child smartwatch, and how and what makes this list special.
What to Look for in a Kid-Friendly Smartwatch
When it comes to buying a smartwatch for your child, safety, durability, and ease of use are key considerations. Here are some essential features to prioritize:
- Safety Features: GPS tracking, SOS buttons, and geofencing help parents keep tabs on their child’s whereabouts.
- Durability: Kids are active and curious, so the smartwatch should withstand bumps, drops, and splashes.
- Educational and Fun Features: Games, fitness tracking, and learning apps keep kids engaged while promoting healthy habits.
- Battery Life: A smartwatch that requires frequent charging can quickly lose its appeal for both kids and parents.
- Parental Controls: Apps and features that allow parents to monitor activity and set restrictions ensure a safe digital experience.
1. Apple Watch SE (Kids Edition)
Apple introduced a kids-focused version of the popular Apple Watch SE, tailored with safety and simplicity in mind.
The Apple Watch SE Kids Edition strikes a balance between fun and functionality. It has an intuitive interface, robust safety features, and a sleek design that kids will love.
Parents appreciate the Family Setup, which gives them control over communication and app usage. However, it’s on the pricier side, which might not appeal to all families.
Key Features
Family Setup: Parents can manage the watch’s features without the need for the child to have an iPhone.
GPS Tracking: Provides real-time location updates.
SOS Emergency Feature: Kids can quickly alert their parents or emergency services.
Activity Tracking: Encourages kids to stay active with move goals, steps, and activity rings.
Durable Design: Water-resistant up to 50 meters, perfect for active kids.
2. Garmin Bounce
The Garmin Bounce is designed with kids in mind, offering fitness tracking and communication features in a durable package.
Garmin Bounce combines durability with engaging features, making it perfect for active kids. The messaging feature adds a layer of connectivity, and the fitness challenges motivate kids to stay active. However, its interface may feel less polished than competitors like the Apple Watch.
Key Features
GPS Tracking: Allows parents to monitor location through the Garmin Jr. app.
Text and Voice Messaging: Kids can send messages to approved contacts.
Activity Tracking: Includes step counting and fun fitness challenges.
Parental Controls: Parents can set limits on usage and monitor activity.
Water-Resistant: Safe for swimming and outdoor play
3. TickTalk 5
The TickTalk 5 is a feature-packed smartwatch that prioritizes safety and communication, making it ideal for older kids and tweens.
TickTalk 5 is a powerhouse smartwatch that offers nearly everything parents could want. Its communication features make it feel like a phone replacement, while the learning apps add educational value. Its bulkier design might not suit younger kids, but older children will appreciate its functionality.
Key Features
4G LTE Support: Allows calling, video calling, and messaging without a phone.
GPS Tracking with Geofencing: Lets parents set safe zones and receive alerts when boundaries are crossed.
SOS Button: Directly alerts parents in emergencies.
Educational Apps: Offers math, language, and brain-training games.
Durable Build: Designed to withstand rough use.
4. Xplora X6Play
The Xplora X6Play combines fun, safety, and practicality, making it one of the most balanced options for kids.
Xplora X6Play stands out with its focus on making fitness fun.
Kids love the gamified step tracking, while parents value the safety features. Its lightweight design is perfect for younger children, but it doesn’t offer the depth of learning apps that other smartwatches provide.
Key Features
GPS Location Tracking: Keeps parents informed of their child’s whereabouts.
Step Tracking and Rewards: Kids earn coins for steps, redeemable for games and prizes.
Call and Messaging: Supports communication with pre-approved contacts.
Geofencing and SOS Alerts: Adds an extra layer of safety.
Customizable Design: Includes interchangeable straps for personalization.
5. Verizon Gizmo Watch 3
The Verizon Gizmo Watch 3 is a straightforward and reliable option for young children, emphasizing safety and communication.
The Gizmo Watch 3 is an excellent choice for younger kids who need a simple yet effective smartwatch. Its GPS and communication features give parents peace of mind, while the activity tracking encourages healthy habits. However, it’s less feature-rich compared to other models like the TickTalk 5.
Key Features
4G LTE Connectivity: Supports calls and messaging with approved contacts.
GPS Tracking with Geofencing: Provides real-time location updates.
Durable Design: Water-resistant and built to withstand rough play.
Parental Controls: Allows parents to manage contacts and app usage.
Fitness Tracking: Includes step counting and activity goals.
Conclusion
In 2025, the preferences help us figure out the best smartwatch for kids. For families already in the Apple ecosystem, the Apple Watch SE Kids Edition is the best choice, while the Garmin Bounce puts an emphasis on versatility and fitness.
For older children, the TickTalk 5 comes equipped with communication and learning tools.
Xplora X6Play makes fitness fun, whereas the Verizon Gizmo Watch 3 appeals to younger children who require safety and simplicity.
Whatever the case may be, these smartwatches combine fun, safety, and usefulness aspects allowing both kids and their parents to relax.
