GPS Tracking Children

GPS Tracking Children

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GPS Tracking Children - Best Devices, Key Features & Facts For Parents!

As a parent, ensuring the safety of your children is your #1 priority. However, this can be challenging if your child has autism, special needs, or simply a tendency to get lost. In fact, over 50% of parents of special needs kids who were surveyed stated their child wandered off at a crowded event or grocery store for a short period of time. The thought is scary! Thankfully, GPS tracking children can provide some peace of mind. In this article, we’ll introduce the best GPS trackers for kids, answer frequently asked questions parents might have, and highlight the benefits of these devices. Now, let’s explore the top GPS child tracking systems available on the market today, and what makes each product unique.

AngelSense: Top-Rated Device For GPS Tracking Children

Top Rated Device For GPS Tracking Children

AngelSense

 

  • Real-Time Tracking: Always locate your loved one indoors & outdoors.

  • Proactive Alerts: Get notified when they're in danger or wander off.

  • Two-Way Audio: Talk & listen to them for reassurance & guidance.

4/5
  • Easily Find A Wandering Child.
  • Always Know Where Your Child Is At.
  • Validate Your Pre-Teen Is Where They Say They Are.
  • Place GPS Into A Baby Stroller And Watch Where The Nanny Is Going

As a concerned parent, you’ll appreciate how AngelSense GPS is specifically designed for child safety. Now, let us explain how you can keep a close eye on your little one with this personal tracker device!

Take two-way voice communication, for instance. Picture your child lost at a crowded sporting event; with just a button press, you can guide them back to safety by talking directly through the device. Pretty cool right?!

Moreover, customizable safe zones offer added peace of mind. By setting areas like school or home as safe zones, you’ll receive instant alerts via text or email if your child enters or leaves these locations. There is no better way to know your child arrived home safely.

Oh, did we mention the SOS button feature? With this real time safety feature, your child can press the button to alert you that they need help. This allows you to respond quickly to ensure your child’s safety.

In essence, AngelSense GPS equips you with a powerful tool to monitor and protect your child. Rest assured knowing their location, whether they leave designated safe zones, and that they have a lifeline during emergencies.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • Real-Time Tracking

  • Assistive Speakerphone

  • Intelligent iAlerts

  • Emergency search tools

  • Sensory Sensitive Wearing

  • Subscription: $49.99/month, 1-year contract

  • Battery: Full-day

  • Size: 1.73 x 2.4 x 0.63 inches

  • Weight: 1.4 oz

  • Compatibility: iOS, Android, PC

As of 3/26/2024

4.1 Stars | 733 Ratings

Pros

Cons

  • Accurate real-time tracking, indoors and outdoors.

  • Assistive speakerphone with auto-answer and SOS button.

  • Customizable geofences and safe places settings.

  • Step counter and location playback history features.

  • Ultra-small, lightweight design with non-removable sleeve.

  • Monthly subscription of $49.99 required.

  • Limited to 60 voice minutes per month.

  • Specific to children with special needs and dementia.

  • Full-day battery life necessitates daily charging.

  • Emergency search tools rely on cellular coverage.

 

Kori Rutherford

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date - April 10, 2023

AngelSense's GPS Tracker puts my heart at ease when my little one with autism is in a new place or at school. The battery life of the device is excellent, and I really appreciate all of the wearing options.

 

Danny83

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date -  January 23, 2023

 

Not the best, but it does okay. First, the GPS is not updated. In order to get it updated to see where your child is, you have to have it in runner mode, which runs down the battery. Even with it being in running mode, it still takes a while for it to catch up. The GPS is not like your phone or car GPS, which will show your exact location. Listening to the background is very muffled, but you can hear some. But I guess something is better than nothing. I will be looking into another product.

Apple AirTag – Bluetooth GPS Tracker For Kids 

Bluetooth GPS Tracker For Kids

Apple AirTag  

  • Track Anything: Locate lost items, friends, and Apple devices.

  • Easy Setup: Connects instantly with your iPhone or iPad.

  • Precision Finding: Ultra Wideband guides you directly (on select iPhones).

4.5/5
Picture this: your child is lost in a sea of people, and you’re feeling the pressure to locate them quickly. Enter the Apple AirTag—a not-so-obvious, affordable solution for pinpointing your child’s location in a crowd.

Sure, AirTags may not be the go-to primary kid’s tracker due to their lack of emergency features and some tracking limitations. But have you considered how they can fill the gap in GPS trackers’ functionality? Thanks to their Precision Finding feature, your child’s location, usually within about 16 feet, becomes crystal clear—even in crowded areas or when they’re hiding like a ninja. With a directional arrow and an inch-by-inch distance countdown, you’ll locate the AirTag’s exact position in no time!

Tech Specs:

  • Size: 1.26 inches in diameter, 0.31 inches thick
  • Weight: 0.39 ounces
  • Battery life: Replaceable CR2032 battery with up to 1-year lifespan
    Precision Finding: Ultra-Wideband technology for pinpoint accuracy (only compatible with iPhone 11 and later
  • models)

Parents can use AirTags to track their children in several ways:

  1. Attach Air Tag to your child’s backpack, jacket, or other belongings, making it easy to locate your child.
  2. Use the Find My app to access real-time location updates and receive notifications when your child’s Air Tag is nearby or out of range.
  3. Enable Lost Mode on the Find My app to receive notifications when the Air Tag is detected by the vast Find My network. This can increase the chances of locating your child in an emergency situation.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • Simple One-Tap Setup

  • Precision Finding Technology

  • Lost Mode Notification

  • Privacy-Focused Design

  • Wide Network Assistance

  • Compatibility: iPhone/iPad

  • Connectivity: Ultra Wideband

  • Sound: Built-In Speaker

  • Sound: Built-In Speaker

  • Price: Varies by Retailer

As of 3/26/2024

4.7 Stars | 174,589 Ratings


Pros

Cons

  • Easy one-tap setup with iPhone or iPad.

  • Built-in speaker to audibly locate items.

  • Precision Finding technology for nearby item tracking.

  • Replaceable battery with over a year's lifespan.

  • Only fully functional within Apple ecosystem.

  • Precision Finding not compatible with all iPhone models.

  • Requires purchase of accessories for attachment.

  • Water resistance is limited to IP67 rating.

 

Todd G

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date - January 11, 2024

I was going on a family vacation for twelve days, so we packed a few pieces of luggage. I enjoyed being able to locate my luggage at any given time, and it gave me peace of mind when I saw my luggage on my phone.

 

Kelly

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date -  January 8, 2024

 

I got this for my cat; the range to pick up her signal is pathetic. You have to be within feet of her for it to 'find' her. It's worthless for an animal that roams more than 100 feet. I took it off.

Related Article: Apple AirTag vs GPS Tracker

TickTalk 4: Best GPS Watch For Tracking Children

Best GPS Watch For Tracking Children

TickTalk 4

  • Stay Connected: Video calls, voice chats, emojis, and gifs keep families close.

  • Unparalleled Safety: Real-time GPS tracking, SOS button, and blocked calls for peace of mind.

  • Healthy Habits: Activity tracker and Do Not Disturb mode promote healthy routines.

4/5
When it comes to GPS smart watches, TickTalk 4 is the highest-rated product designed for kids. But what makes it stand above the Verizon Gizmo Watch and other smart watches? Let us explain.

First of all, the Verizon Gizmo Watch requires a monthly subscription fee ($5.55) and service contract agreement. Yup! And if you break that contract? There will be fees. And did we mention reviews? TickTalk 4 has 1,800 verified Amazon reviews (as of 4/24/23), with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars. Pretty impressive right? If you are looking for a quality smartwatch designed for GPS tracking children, check out more features of TickTalk 4:

  • Stay Connected: Offer your child a variety of ways to stay in touch with loved ones through video, voice, Wi-Fi calling, Talk-To-Text, preset responses, and more.
  • Stay Safe: TickTalk 4, perfect for 5-12-year-olds, ensures safety with accurate GPS tracking, SOS function, and 20+ parental controls. Approve contacts and block unknown numbers for peace of mind.
  • Stay Expressive: With dual 5-megapixel cameras, your child can share selfies and snapshots. Send Talk-To-Text messages, preset responses, GIFs, emojis, and voice recordings securely. Yes, this device is FUN FOR KIDS!
  • Stay On Task: Encourage a healthy lifestyle by setting daily step goals. Keep your child focused with reminders and Do Not Disturb Class Mode for better habits early on.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • 2-Way Voice/HD Video Calls

  • Real-Time GPS Tracking

  • Activity Tracker & DND Mode

  • Free Streaming iHeartRadio Family

  • IP67 Water Resistance

  • Standby Time: 100+ Hours

  • Camera: Dual 5MP

  • Water Resistance: IP67 Rating

  • Connectivity: Unique Antenna for Nationwide Signal

  • Parental Controls: Advanced Options

As of 3/26/2024

4.0 Stars | 2,590 Ratings

 

Pros

Cons

  • 2-way voice and HD video calling for easy communication.

  • GPS tracking and route history for child safety.

  • Activity tracker and Do Not Disturb mode.

  • Free streaming of kid-friendly content (U.S. only).

  • Durable design with IP67 water resistance and shock-proof.

  • Streaming service limited to the U.S. only.

  • Parental controls may require regular monitoring.

  • Unknown call and text blocking could limit communication.

  • Standby time may necessitate frequent charging.

  • Reliant on network signal for all features.

 

Chrissy Carter

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date - January 12, 2024

My 10-year-old daughter loves her watch! I purchased this watch because I wanted to have a way to communicate with her and track her without her having a phone or access to the internet. It works both in the United Kingdom and the United States (we travel back and forth). I love the tracking capability and the ease of use of the app. My daughter loves the camera feature and that she can customize the watch. I will purchase one for my son when he is older as well.

 

Danielle Williams

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date -  January 3, 2024

 

My nine-year-old has broken twice in less than a year. First time the band broke (this also happened to my daughter’s). The second time, the button to turn it on broke. The app often does not properly locate my child, often showing that he is 40 miles away. I would not recommend purchasing this item.

Tracki: Track Your Child For Less Than $15

Track Your Child For Less Than $15

Tracki

  • Unlimited Range: Real-time location anywhere with 4G LTE & global coverage.

  • Long Battery Life: Up to 5 days or 60 days with optional extended battery.

  • Tiny & Discreet: Compact size (1.8") fits cars, kids, pets, anything valuable.

 

4/5
Tracki mini GPS tracker is the only device on this list designed for GPS tracking children that offers worldwide coverage. In fact, that makes Tracki mini the perfect device for families who travel abroad. However, what really makes the Tracki mini stand above other GPS trackers and devices is the price. For less than $15, this realtime GPS tracker will give you instant access to the location history of your child! And of course, the small size of the personal GPS allows your kid to easily conceal the tracker device in a pocket or backpack.

Fun Fact: With over 40,000 verified Amazon reviews (as of 4/25/23), Tracki is the most reviewed piece of tracking technology on the web!

Tech Specs:

  • Unlimited distance real-time tracking compatible with any network worldwide; a $19.95 monthly fee is required.
  • Small and lightweight (1.75×1.5×0.55in, 1.26oz); includes a built-in SIM card.
  • Rechargeable battery with 5 days battery life; extends to 30-75 days using battery save mode.
  • Indoor and outdoor tracking using GPS satellites and Wi-Fi; real-time smart alerts for Geo-fence zones, SOS, low battery; lifetime warranty.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • Unlimited distance tracking

  • 4G LTE + 3 Bands

  • Smallest & lightest

  • Up to 5-years history

  • Live customer support 24/7

  • Size: 1.8x1.6x0.7in

  • Weight: 1.26 oz

  • Battery Life: 2-5 days, 60 days saver

  • Subscription: From $9.95/month

  • Warranty: Lifetime

As of 3/26/2024

4.1 Stars | 45,002 Ratings

Pros

Cons

  • Unlimited distance real-time tracking with 4G LTE.

  • Full USA and worldwide coverage, international SIM included.

  • Small and light: 1.8x1.6x0.7 inches, 1.26 oz.

  • Up to 5-years location history storage.

  • Rechargeable battery lasts 2-5 days or up to 60 days in saver mode.

  • Monthly subscription fee of $19.95 or $9.95 for long-term.

  • Requires AT&T or T-Mobile coverage in the USA.

  • Real-time tracking updates may drain battery faster.

  • Secondary Wi-Fi & GSM tracking less precise than GPS.

 

Katerin Lopez

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date - January 11, 2024

I got the Tracki device but couldn’t afford to pay for a subscription at the moment, so I still activated the account a couple of days later. I received a call from them, and they gave me a month-long free trial and a lifetime warranty. I recommend it. I will update it in a month and see how well it works. Thanks, Christopher, thank you for your time. 10/11/24

 

Christopher L

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date -  December 10, 2023

 

I did not know the costs before purchasing. I thought it would be the same as their other model. Nope, more expensive.

JioBit Smart Tag: Best GPS Tracker For Kids With Special Needs 

Best GPS Tracker For Kids With Special Needs

JioBit Smart Tag

  • Stay Connected: Keeps your Jiobit tracker online for real-time location access.

  • Flexible Options: Choose monthly or yearly subscription plans in the app.

  • Simple Setup: No extra SIM card or cellular plan required.

4/5
What is the best GPS tracker for special needs children? According to articles by USA Today and The Autism Dad, JioBit is the best tracking device for kids with Autism. But what makes this GPS tracker for kids the best for personal safety? The answer: features. Let us explain in a story.

One sunny afternoon in Sacramento, California, Sarah Thompson, a dedicated mother of two, experienced the scare of her life. Her 7-year-old son, Ethan, who is non-verbal autistic, had wandered off from the family picnic at McKinley Park. Ethan’s fascination with the roses in the park’s garden had led him astray, leaving Sarah frantic and anxious.

Equipped with a Jiobit Smart Tag on Ethan’s backpack, Sarah quickly pulled out her smartphone and activated the tracking feature. The screen displayed a map, guiding her step by step toward her son’s location. Sarah’s heart raced as she weaved through the maze of towering redwoods and perfectly manicured lawns. With Jiobit’s accurate location tracking, Sarah spotted Ethan amidst the sea of colorful petals. He was gently touching a vivid crimson rose, marveling at the colors.

Relief washed over Sarah as she hugged Ethan tightly, grateful for the Jiobit Smart Tag for helping to locate her wandering son in a critical moment.

Features We Like:

  • Geofencing: Set virtual boundaries and receive alerts if your child exits a designated safe zone, such as home, school, or therapy center.
  • SOS button: In case of emergencies, your child can easily press the SOS button to notify you, providing an extra layer of safety.
  • Two-way voice calls: Communicate with your child directly through the device, giving them reassurance and guidance when needed.

Tech Specs:

  • Battery life: Jiobit boasts an impressive battery life of up to 7 days, ensuring continuous tracking without frequent recharging.
  • Water-resistant: The device is designed to withstand splashes and accidental spills, making it suitable for everyday use.
  • Compatibility: Jiobit pairs with Android and iOS devices, ensuring seamless integration with your smartphone.

PRODUCT

KEY FEATURES

 

SPECS

 

AMAZON RATING

  • Geofencing Alerts

  • SOS Button

  • Two-Way Voice Calls

  • Water-Resistant

  • Smartphone Compatibility

  • Battery Life: Up to 7 days

  • Water Resistance: Yes

  • Compatibility: Android & iOS

  • Special Needs: Ideal for Autism

  • Tracking: Accurate & Real-time

As of 3/26/2024

4.0 Stars | 2,459 Ratings

 

Pros

Cons

  • Real-time location access for safety.

  • Flexible subscription options (monthly or yearly).

  • Simple setup without needing extra SIM.

  • Geofencing alerts for designated safe zones.

  • Two-way voice calls for direct communication.

  • Subscription required for operation.

  • Battery life requires weekly recharging.

  • Water-resistant, but not fully waterproof.

  • Designed primarily for children with special needs.

  • SOS button usage depends on child's ability.

 

Daniel S.

Positive Review

Amazon.com- Review Date - October 7, 2023

Performed perfectly as advertised. The tracking was spot on, and we were able to find our little girl in a matter of seconds after she ran off from school. A 5-year-old with special needs benefited that day. She wasn't lost for very long at all.

 

Michael Cermak Jr

Negative Review

Amazon.com - Review Date -  October 24, 2023

 

We own three Jiobits, and they used to be quite useful. Unfortunately, they've been purchased by Tile, and the Jiobits are no longer supported. We've paid a lot of money for something we can't use anymore.

9 Features Parents Should Look For When Buying A Kids GPS Tracker

Okay, so now you know how valuable a GPS tracker can be for your child’s safety and some of the top products out there. But what features should you really focus on? Don’t worry—we’ve got your back. In this next section, we’ll walk you through the 9 key features, break down what they do, and explain why they matter. That way, you’ll know exactly what to look for before making a decision.

Real-Time Location Updates

Real-time tracking gives you live updates on your child’s location, so you always know where they are. This is essential if your child gets lost or ends up somewhere unexpected, allowing you to act fast when it matters most.

Accuracy

Accuracy is key when it comes to tracking your child. A high-accuracy GPS personal tracker ensures you know their exact location, leaving no room for guessing if they wander off or miss a check-in.

Virtual Boundaries

Geofencing lets you set up virtual boundaries or "safe zones" like your home, school, or a friend’s house. If your child leaves or enters these areas, you’ll get instant alerts. This helps you stay ahead of any potential issues before they escalate.

Battery Life

A tracker is only helpful if it’s working when you need it. Devices with long battery life mean fewer recharges and more time with uninterrupted tracking, keeping you connected when it matters most.

Size

A small, easily hidden personal GPS locator can attach to your child’s backpack or clothing without drawing attention. The less noticeable the device, the more likely your child will carry it without feeling uncomfortable or self-conscious.

Durability

Kids play rough, and a fragile tracker won’t survive the day. A durable GPS tracker ensures it keeps working through all the bumps, falls, and everyday adventures your child gets into.

SOS Button

An SOS button lets your child send an emergency alert with one quick press. This feature gives them a direct way to reach you or other trusted contacts, providing peace of mind during any unexpected situation.

Two-Way Communication

Some GPS kids trackers offer voice features so you can talk with your child when they need comfort or instructions. Whether it’s a quick check-in or reassuring them during a stressful moment, this feature keeps you connected.

Monthly Fees

Most real time GPS trackers require a monthly subscription for features like real-time tracking and cellular connectivity. While this is an extra cost, it ensures you have the tools needed to keep your child safe and stay connected.

 

    GPS Tracker For Kids

    GPS Tracking Children: Why You Can Trust Our Reviews

    When it comes to GPS trackers for kids, we know how important it is to trust the advice you’re getting. At SpaceHawk GPS, we want you to know upfront—we aren’t paid to promote any of the products mentioned here. In fact, we don’t sell these child-tracking devices at all. So, what’s in it for us?

    After 15 years working in GPS tracking, our goal is simple: to help parents like you find the best tools to keep your kids safe. Whether you’re looking at hidden GPS trackers, smartwatches, or Bluetooth trackers, we want to make sure you get something reliable for your child’s safety and your peace of mind.

    We put this guide together to give you clear, unbiased information so you can make the best choice for your family. No pressure from manufacturers, no hidden sales pitch—just the facts. With our experience in GPS tracking, we’ve got the know-how to steer you toward what works, not just what looks good online.

    At the end of the day, we want what you want: safety for your child and peace of mind for you. Let us help you find the right solution for your family.

    GPS Trackers For Kids Frequently Asked Questions

    Are GPS Devices for Kids A Reliable Solution For Child Safety?

    Yes, personal GPS trackers are a reliable way to keep your child safe. They give you real-time location updates and alerts, so you always know where your child is, day or night.

    Can Apple AirTags Be Used As Kid’s Location Trackers?

    Yes, you can use Apple AirTags to track your child. While they aren’t made specifically for kids, you can attach one to their backpack, jacket, or other belongings. With the Find My app on your Apple device, you’ll be able to check their location when needed. In fact, the Washington Post wrote an article about parents who are doing just that!

    Is There A Monthly Cost To Track My Child’s Location?

    Yes, most child tracking devices come with a monthly subscription. This fee covers the cellular GPS connection and often includes extra features, like two-way voice communication or emergency dispatch services. You should expect to pay between $10-$20 a month for the monthly fees.

    Can GPS Tracking Watches For Kids Also Function As A Fitness Tracker?

    Yes, some GPS tracking watches for kids, such as the Verizon GizmoWatch and the Apple Watch SE, offer fitness tracking features alongside location tracking. In fact, these smartwatches can help monitor your child’s activity levels while also providing parental control options for added safety!

    Do Child GPS Trackers Have An SOS Button For Emergencies?

    Yes, many trackers for kids, such as the GeoZilla GPS Tracker and Gizmo Watch, feature an SOS button. When pressed, this button sends an immediate alert to designated contacts, potentially connecting them to emergency dispatch services if necessary.

    How Long Does The Battery Last On A Typical GPS Tracker For Kids?

    Battery life differs between GPS trackers and kids' smartwatches. For example, the Tracki Mini GPS Tracker can run for several days on one charge, while many smartwatches need to be charged daily. So check with the manufacturer before you buy to see what battery life is best for your family.

    Can GPS Trackers For Kids Help With Parental Control And Monitoring?

    Yes, many GPS locators for kids include parental control features. You can set up geofences, get real-time location updates, and even manage what features are accessible on smartwatches. This way, you can keep your child safe and get instant alerts if they leave a safe zone.

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