The 10 Best GPS Trackers for Kids to Help Keep Them Safe

GPS trackers are small gadgets that provide real-time information about your kid’s location, whether it’s on the school bus, in the classroom, or on the way to soccer practice, If you’re experiencing a moment of doubt, you can simply look at your phone to note your child’s whereabouts while still granting them the freedom to explore.

There are many GPS trackers out there with a variety of designs, including watches, phones, and small plastic tags you can drop inside a backpack or attach to a shoelace. Depending on your stance on technology for kids, you will want to consider the age-appropriateness of the device, how long the battery lasts, whether it’s simple enough for your child to use, and the monthly cost. “A simple tracker is better than a phone because it’s easy to carry and can be stored more conveniently,” cybersecurity specialist Naj Ahmed, tells Verywell Family. Desired features are a factor, too. For example, some trackers offer geofencing alerts that allow parents to draw virtual boundary lines to enclose a safe zone like school or home. If a child steps outside that perimeter during a non-approved time, the parent receives a notification.

In addition to the features, you’ll also want to consider the pros and cons of tracking your child. GPS trackers give caregivers peace of mind and allow them to easily locate their child at any time while affording them some independence (without constant in-person supervision). However, older children may resist monitoring, and Ahmed points out that GPS trackers can be hacked, exposing your child’s real-time location to strangers.