Top 12 Child Tracking Devices Parents Need to Know About

Looking for a reliable GPS tracking device to help keep your little one safe? You’re not alone. As modern parenting gets busier than ever, many caregivers face the same challenge: balancing work and daily responsibilities while making sure their child is safe, wherever they go. Whether it’s a trip to the park, a walk home from school, or an outing with friends, kids can easily get distracted or wander off—making real-time location tracking more important than ever.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best GPS tracker devices available today, from budget-friendly wearables to advanced GPS solutions. Whether you’re looking for something simple like a portable GPS tracker or a feature-packed wearable device, there’s an option out there for every family.

And if you’re looking for something beyond just a GPS device, we’ll also introduce Findmykids—a smart alternative that works both as a tracking app and a safety companion. From real-time GPS updates to loud signals, SOS alerts, and smartwatch integration, it’s a flexible and powerful solution for keeping your child protected.

Let’s dive in.

Contents:

• What Is a Child Tracking Device and How Does It Help Parents
• 1. Gabb Watch 3e
• 2. TickTalk 5
• 3. imoo Z6 Smartwatch
• 4. Verizon Gizmo Watch 3
• 5. Apple AirTag 
• 6. AngelSense GPS Tracker for Kids
• 7. JrTrack 4 Kids Smartwatch
• 8. Tack GPS Plus
• 9. Utag GPS Tracker
• 10. Seculife GPS Tracker
• 11. Tracki Pro
• 12. Generic GPS Tracker
• Comparing Options for Real-Time Location Tracking
• Findmykids — An Alternative Way to Protect Kids
• Are Parents Allowed to Put a Tracker on Their Child?
• FAQs

What Is a Child Tracking Device and How Does It Help Parents

A child tracking device is a GPS-based tool—typically a smartwatch, wearable tag, or smartphone app—that lets parents monitor their child’s location and receive alerts if they leave predefined safe zones. These devices often include SOS buttons, sound signals, and geofence alerts to support quick response in case of emergencies. They’re especially useful for younger kids who walk alone, take public transport, or attend activities independently.

Benefits of a Tracking Device for Kids

Before we dive into the specifics of each tracker, it’s helpful to understand how a tracker works.

A GPS tracker for kids—whether it’s a GPS smartwatch, clip‑on tag, or a smartphone with a tracking app—provides live tracking data, SOS buttons, custom alerts, and emergency help. These features give parents peace of mind while keeping tabs on kids exploring safely, whether at school, on outings, or traveling independently.

Devices range from simple, budget-friendly tags offering free service via Bluetooth to feature-rich GPS smartwatches. When choosing one, consider your child’s age, the features you need (like location accuracy, voice messages, and parental controls), and the type of device (watch, phone, or tag).

1. Gabb Watch 3e

Credit: gabb.com

The Gabb Watch 3e, the updated version of the Gabb Watch 3, is widely regarded as one of the best GPS smartwatch options with kids GPS trackers today. Built with durable construction and a kid-friendly design, it offers a blend of essential safety tools and fun personalization features. Parents can enjoy peace of mind with precise tracking, safe zone alerts, and restricted contact lists. There’s no access to social media or the internet, helping reduce exposure to online risks.

Pros:

• Provides real-time location accuracy
• Simple wireless charging
• Customizable watch faces and straps
• Lots of handy extras built in
• Parent-approved contacts
• Silent and focus modes

Cons:

• Priced at around $150; requires a monthly cellular plan starting at $12.99

2. TickTalk 5

Credit: amazon.com

The TickTalk 5 kids smartwatch and GPS tracker continues the long-running success of the TickTalk name. Designed to keep kids safe and parents calm, this is a top GPS tracking device for kids aged 3–12, with AI-powered live location features and two-way communication.

Pros:

• Lots of colors to pick from
• Powerful technology
• Highly accurate tracker for kids
• Live tracking features and voice messages
• Works with iOS and Android phones

Cons:

• Best GPS tracker performance when paired with a smartphone
• Device is $159 with a premium plan requirement starting at $9.99

3. imoo Z6 Smartwatch

Credit: amazon.com

The imoo Z6 Ultra came out in 2021 and, though sometimes difficult to find, stands out among reviewers for its durability and unique flip-camera design. It offers real-time GPS solutions, video calling, and strong parental controls, all in a waterproof, kid-friendly smartwatch.

Pros:

• Two-way video calls
• Tracker works exceptionally well with accurate location tracking
• Strong network coverage and global coverage capabilities
• Swim-proof (IPX8)
• Classroom mode
• SOS alerts

Cons:

• Higher price point (around $249)
• Some features may require region-specific support

4. Verizon Gizmo Watch 3

Credit: amazon.com

The Gizmo Watch 3, released in early 2023, is an upgrade from previous Verizon models. It’s one of the most widely available and reliable GPS smartwatches for kids in the U.S., offering robust location accuracy and communication features with Verizon’s coverage.

Pros:

• One of the best kids’ GPS devices from a reputable brand
• Two-way calling and messaging
• GPS tracking device with geofencing and the ability to set digital boundaries
• Fitness tracking
• Durable design with a tough watch band

Cons:

• Requires a Verizon service plan
• Device price is $149.99 with monthly plans around $10
• Not global coverage; limited to Verizon’s network coverage

5. Apple AirTag

Credit: apple.com

The Apple AirTag is the official portable GPS tracker of tech giant Apple. It pairs with the built-in Find My Device features of iPhones and iPads, making it ideal for simple location tracking in homes that use devices in the Apple ecosystem. It’s also discreet, easy to slip into kids’ shoes, a child’s backpack, etc.

Pros:

• Long battery life
• Real-time alerts and location updates
• No monthly fee
• Priced at $29

Cons:

• Only works with IOS devices
• Does not keep location history
• Not great for Windows and Android users

6 AngelSense GPS Tracker for Kids

Credit: amazon.com

The AngelSense GPS tracker (often used alongside the AngelSense watch) is perfect for kids of all ages, including those with autism or special needs. It contains a two-way auto-answer speakerphone, plus an SOS button in case of emergencies, and a range of AI-powered advanced features for maximum safety.

Pros:

• Listen-in feature
• SOS button
• Daily movement feature with tracking
• Suitable for kids with autism and small children
• Compact and discreet
• AI real-time location tracking
• Strong battery life

Cons:

• You have to pay a monthly fee and device costs $59 and up upfront
• Bulkier than many smartwatches

7. JrTrack 5 Kids Smartwatch

Credit: amazon.com

The JrTrack 5 is a compact but sturdy smartphone that replaces the JrTrack 4 (now discontinued). It provides calling, messaging, and safety controls in a smartwatch designed for kids aged 5–12, plus a built-in GPS device.

Pros:

• Comes with a SIM card
• Many safety features
• Easy to set up
• Accurate real-time location tracking and live location capabilities
• Great for families with multiple kids
• Access to location history

Cons:

• Battery life isn’t the best
• Poor user support
• Costly ($129.99) with a monthly plan required

8. Tack GPS Plus

Credit: amazon.com

Tack GPS Plus is a small portable GPS tracker tag you can attach to your kid’s clothes, backpack, bike, etc. It has both Wi-Fi and GPS tracking capabilities and even shows elevation, making it easier to accurately locate kids in multi-floor buildings. It also boasts 30-day battery life, though some users say it doesn’t always live up to that claim, and two weeks is more accurate.

Pros:

• Small form factor
• Easy to work with
• Pinpoint accuracy and real-time location tracking, ideal for a child who walks home from school

Cons:

• Monthly fee required on top of the device cost of $68
• Unpredictable battery life

9. Utag GPS Tracker

Credit: amazon.com

The Utag GPS tracker for kids is a cheap and easy tracker to use. You can pair it with Apple cell phones and track its location from far away. It’s not always the most accurate for live location, and it only updates location every now and then, not in real time, but it is good for keeping an eye on your kids at school or on trips.

Pros:

• A simple and compact form design
• Very affordable at less than $30 (perhaps the closest you’ll get to a free device!)
• Also works for pets and other people

Cons:

• Quite basic
• Only works with iOS devices
• Doesn’t track in real-time

10. Seculife GPS Tracker

Credit: amazon.com

The Seculife GPS tracker for kids uses GPS technology for continuous monitoring and provides real-time updates on your child’s location every few minutes via a companion app. When used with other parental control apps and tools, it’s a great addition to moms’ and dads’ lives, making it much easier to monitor your child wherever they go.

Pros:

• Small and easy to hide in bags or clothing
• Easy to set up
• Geofence alerts
• Easy to attach using a belt clip
• Helpful features like the SOS alert button
• Lifetime warranty from the manufacturer

Cons:

• You have to pay a monthly fee on top of the tracker cost of $65
• Battery life varies

11. Tracki Pro

Credit: amazon.com

Next, meet the Tracki Pro GPS tracker device. This one is mainly aimed at vehicles, so you can use it when your teens have just received their driver’s license, for example. It boasts long (60-day) battery life and unlimited range, thanks to its mix of GPS and cellular tracking modes.

Pros:

• Awesome battery life
• Great location accuracy
• Speed alerts
• Strong magnet to stay in position

Cons:

• Limited use cases
• Best for vehicles
• Subscription required
• No location history available

12. Generic GPS Tracker

Credit: amazon.com

Cheap but effective, the Generic GPS tracking device is a really basic watch-style device you can put on your kids to track their location. It has no monthly fees to worry about and works flawlessly with iOS devices, just like an AirTag, with the Find My feature.

Pros:

• Simple and discreet design
• Free service model for these kids’ GPS devices
• Highly affordable price tag
• Works well at tracking locations

Cons:

• Only works with iOS devices
• Quite basic
• Lacks features like voice messages

Comparing Options for Real-Time Location Tracking

The table below shows a quick comparative look at the GPS tracker models seen throughout this guide:

Findmykids — An Alternative Way to Protect Kids

While we’ve covered popular kids’ GPS trackers, there’s another powerful tool worth considering: the Findmykids app. This all-in-one child monitoring solution offers comprehensive tracking features without the need for additional gadgets, though it also pairs seamlessly with GPS smartwatches and cell phones, which makes it even more appealing for parents looking for flexibility in their advanced GPS solutions.

How Findmykids Protects Your Kids

• Live Location Tracking: Monitor your child’s exact location with updates every few seconds, ensuring they are where they should be.
• Location History: Review your child’s movement history to see where they’ve been throughout the day.
• Geofencing Alerts: Set up safe zones like home, school, or the park, and receive instant notifications when your child enters or leaves these areas.
• SOS Button: In emergencies, your child can send an immediate alert with their location to your device with the SOS button.
• Listen to Surroundings: Remotely activate your child’s device microphone to hear their environment, helping assess their safety.
• Driving Protect (Trips Monitoring): A dedicated safety feature for older kids and teen drivers. It tracks trips in detail, including maximum speed (already available), and planned indicators such as harsh acceleration, braking, and sharp maneuvers. These insights help parents understand whether a trip is safe or unsafe. You can also replay the full route to see exactly how the journey unfolded.
• Loud Signal: Send a loud alert to your child’s device, which is useful if it’s on silent or misplaced.
• App Usage Statistics: Monitor which apps your child uses and how much time they spend on each, aiding in managing screen time.
• Call Blocking: Block unwanted or unknown numbers from contacting your child’s device, enhancing their safety.
• Battery Monitoring: Keep track of your child’s device battery level and receive alerts when it’s low.
• Family Chat: Communicate securely within the app, providing a centralized platform for family messaging.

Available for both Android and iOS, Findmykids offers a reliable and user-friendly way to ensure your child’s safety and stay connected throughout the day.

Stay connected to your child’s world, wherever they go—get Findmykids now!

As kids grow more independent, parents often wonder at what age they should stop tracking their child. There’s no universal answer, but many begin scaling back monitoring around ages 13–14, depending on the child’s maturity, habits, and openness. With kids’ GPS trackers like Findmykids, you can gradually shift from full tracking to softer check-ins, supporting your child’s autonomy while still ensuring their safety.

Are Parents Allowed to Put a Tracker on Their Child?

After exploring the best tracking devices for kids, many parents naturally ask: ” Am I actually allowed to put a tracker on my child? The answer is yes—in most countries, it’s legal to track your own minor child if the intention is to ensure their safety. Still, open communication is recommended, especially with older children, to build trust and avoid misunderstandings.

FAQs

What is the best device to track your child?

There are a plethora of great tracking devices out there, such as the Gabb Watch 3e, the TickTalk 5, and the Apple AirTag. To choose the best trackers for kids, think about your budget, needs, the age of your child, and what features you want to use.

Am I allowed to put a tracker on my child?

Yes, there’s nothing illegal about putting a tracker on your child to keep an eye on them, and in fact, many experts recommend it as a way to keep your kids safe and protected. Just be sure to approach the topic with respect, clarity, and consent.

Can I get a tracker for my child?

Yes, there are many kids’ GPS trackers sold online and in stores designed to help you track your child. Many have features like live tracking, SOS buttons, and more to make keeping tabs on your child easier.

How can I track my 6-year-old?

The easiest way is with a tracker device, like a tag or smartwatch, that you put on your child before they leave the home. When they get older, you can use parental control apps like Findmykids to keep an eye on them via their smartphone or smartwatch through instant notifications and location history.

What is the cheapest way to track a child?

The cheapest way to track a child is with the Findmykids app. Findmykids offers a monthly, yearly, or unlimited plan to use the app on any cell phone or kid’s smartwatch to track real-time location and provide additional safety features.

Or, parents can place an AirTag in their clothing, bags, or even their shoes. An AirTag costs around $25 to purchase and does not require a subscription, as long as you have an iPhone or other Apple device to connect it to.

Cover image: New Africa/Shutterstock