5 Smart Gadgets to Monitor Your Kids

As the new school year approaches, my top priority as a parent is keeping my children safe. With all the advances 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 provide peace of mind and help us stay connected to our kids, whether they’re driving to or from school, participating in after-school activities, or just playing around the neighborhood.

Below, I’ve rounded up some of the best smart tech options available to help you monitor where your kids are and keep them safe. And to make your back-to-school shopping easier, you can find all of the top-rated products below at Amazon.

1. Apple AirTags

These small, easy-to-use devices can be attached to backpacks, jackets, lunch boxes, and even shoes. Apple AirTag syncs with iPhone, allowing users to view their children’s real-time locations using the “Find My” app on iPhone.

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One-touch setup lets you instantly connect your AirTag to your iPhone or iPad
Precise search with Ultra Wideband technology takes you directly to the nearest AirTag

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Easy to install
Made of TPU shell with transparent front cover
The keychain is waterproof, anti-corrosion, strong and durable
The key fob does not affect the Bluetooth connection or the AirTag sound

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Cartoon characters include a dog, a cat, a dragon, and a unicorn
Fits most Velcro and lace-up shoes for children aged 3 and up
To assemble, press the AirTag firmly against the Tagimal until it clicks into place
One year warranty

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Hidden under clothing and not easy to detect
Lightweight and smaller than other pins, they can be used on shirts, pants, dresses, coats, jeans and jackets
Made of silicone and stainless steel pins
Suitable for people of all ages

2. Jiobit Gen 3 – GPS tracker for kids

The Jiobit Gen 3 is about 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, although it typically requires charging every 3 to 5 days with active use

The Jiobit app allows parents to set up geofences around trusted locations, such as home or school. Parents receive notifications when their child enters or leaves these areas. The app also supports proximity notifications, notifying parents if their child wanders too far into crowded areas.

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Attaches discreetly to clothes, shoes, backpacks and other items
Real-time GPS location sharing with unlimited coverage nationwide
Set up custom trusted places to get notified when you enter or leave an area
Location history on timeline lets parents get notified about unexpected detours
Data is safe, secure and tamper-proof
Covered by a one-year limited manufacturer’s warranty

3.Fitbit Ace LTE

The Fitbit Ace LTE is perfect for kids – it tracks their steps, active minutes, and even sleep patterns. It also has fun reminders to encourage them to move throughout the day. It has real-time location tracking and built-in LTE connectivity, meaning you can check where your child is and stay connected without needing Wi-Fi.

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Built-in 4G LTE and GPS cellular location
16+ hour battery life
Fast charging provides 11 hours of battery life in 30 minutes
Parents can call, message and locate using the Ace app
Children can’t send messages to each other using Fitbit Ace LTE
Set your watch to “School Time” so your children can’t use the game

4. TickTalk5 Kids Smartwatch

The TickTalk5 Kids smartwatch comes with features designed specifically for kids, including real-time GPS tracking. With built-in LTE connectivity, kids can make video calls, voice calls, and send messages—even when they’re not connected to Wi-Fi. TickTalk 5 also includes fun features like a step counter, reminders, and a camera for taking photos and video calls.

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Standalone smartwatch with 4G/LTE cellular support, allowing voice/video calls over Wi-Fi or data transmission
Includes video calls, text-to-speech conversations, and voice messaging
Equipped with Google Maps offering real-time route tracking and browsing
Parents will receive SOS/911 call notifications with location updates
Waterproof, shockproof and dustproof
Long battery life, secure messaging and activity tracking

5. Garmin Bounce

The Garmin Bounce offers real-time GPS tracking and LTE connectivity, which allows you to send text and voice messages without using your phone. The smartwatch also supports geofencing, allowing parents to set safe zones and receive alerts if their child ventures outside of those areas. It also includes fitness tracking, such as step counting, activity goals, and sleep tracking.

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Ability to send text and voice messages
Includes real-time location tracking
Get notified when your child crosses or exceeds parent-set boundaries
Durable, suitable for swimming
Up to 2 days of battery life on a single charge
The help function allows children to send messages with their current location to family contacts