As the new school year approaches, my priority as a parent is ensuring the safety of my children. With all the advancements in technology, it’s reassuring to know that keeping track of our children has become easier and more effective than ever.
From smartwatches to GPS devices and Apple AirTags, these tools offer peace of mind and help us stay connected with our children, whether they’re heading to and from school, participating in after-school activities or simply playing in the neighborhood.
Below, I’ve rounded up some of the best smart tech options available that can help you monitor your children’s whereabouts and ensure their safety. And to make your back-to-school shopping easier, all of the below top-rated products can be found on Amazon.
1. Apple AirTags
These tiny, easy-to-use devices can be attached to backpacks, jackets, lunchboxes or even on shoes. The Apple AirTag syncs with an iPhone, allowing users to view their childrens’ location in real-time using the “Find My” iPhone app.
- One-tap setup instantly connects AirTag with your iPhone or iPad
- Precision Finding with Ultra Wideband technology leads you right to your nearby AirTag
- Easy to install
- Made of TPU shell with transparent front cover
- Keychain is waterproof, anti-corrosion, strong and durable
- Keychain does not affect Bluetooth connection or sound of AirTag
- Cartoon characters feature a dog, cat, dragon and unicorn
- Fits most velcro and lace-up shoes for kids 3 and older
- To assemble, press AirTag firmly into the Tagimal until it clicks into place
- One-year warranty
- Concealed under clothing and not easily discovered
- Lightweight and smaller than other pins — can be used on shirts, pants, dresses, coats, jeans and jackets
- Made of silicone and stainless steel pins
- Suitable for all ages
2. Jiobit Gen 3 — GPS Tracker for Kids
The Jiobit Gen 3 is roughly the size of a small cookie, providing real-time location tracking using a combination of GPS, cellular, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology. The battery can last up to 30 days on a single charge, though it typically requires recharging every 3 to 5 days with active use
The Jiobit app allows parents to set up geofences around trusted places like home or school. Parents receive alerts when their child enters or leaves these areas. Additionally, the app supports proximity alerts, notifying parents if their child strays too far in crowded places.
- Discreetly attaches to clothing, shoes, backpacks and more
- Real-time GPS location sharing with unlimited nationwide range
- Set up custom trusted places to be alerted when an area is entered or left
- Location history timeline allows parents to be notified of unexpected detours
- Data is secure, protected and tamper-proof
- Backed by 1-year manufacturer limited warranty
3. Fitbit Ace LTE
The Fitbit Ace LTE is perfect for children — it tracks their steps, active minutes and even their sleep patterns. Plus, it has fun reminders to get them moving throughout the day. It has real-time location tracking and built-in LTE connectivity, which means you can check on your child’s whereabouts and stay connected without needing Wi-Fi.
- Built-in cellular 4G LTE and GPS location
- Battery with 16+ hours of life
- Fast-charging provides 11 hours of battery in 30 minutes
- Parents can call, message and locate using the Ace app
- Kids can’t message each other using Fitbit Ace LTE
- Set “School Time” on watch so kids cannot use gameplay
4. TickTalk5 Kids Smartwatch
The TickTalk5 Kids Smartwatch is packed with features specifically designed for children, including real-time GPS tracking. With built-in LTE connectivity, children can make video calls, voice calls and send messages — even when they’re not connected to Wi-Fi. Plus, the TickTalk 5 includes fun features like a step counter, reminders, and a camera for photos and video calls.
- Standalone 4G/LTE cellular smartwatch that enables voice/video calls over Wi-Fi or data
- Includes video calling, talk-to-text, voice messages
- Equipped with Google Maps that offers real-time tracking and route review
- Parents will receive alerts when SOS/911 calls are made with location updates
- Water-resistant, shockproof and dustproof
- Long-lasting battery life, secure messaging and activity tracking
5. Garmin Bounce
The Garmin Bounce offers real-time GPS tracking and LTE connectivity, allowing for phone-free texts and voice messages. The smartwatch also supports geofencing, enabling parents to set safe zones and receive alerts if their child steps outside these areas. It also includes fitness tracking, such as step counting, activity goals and sleep tracking.
- Can send text and voice messages
- Includes real-time location tracking
- Receive notifications when child enters or leaves parent-defined boundaries
- Durable, swim-friendly
- Up to 2 days of battery life between charges
- Assitance feature lets children trigger a message with their live location to family contacts
