{"id":54850,"date":"2025-11-19T13:41:54","date_gmt":"2025-11-19T10:41:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/?p=54850"},"modified":"2026-02-17T17:24:35","modified_gmt":"2026-02-17T14:24:35","slug":"how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/en\/how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone","title":{"rendered":"How Do You Put a Tracker on Your Kid\u2019s Phone (and Keep Their Trust)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>It\u2019s any parent\u2019s comfort to know that their kids are safe at all times. Fortunately, these days, technology makes it possible to keep an eye on a child\u2019s location by simply installing an app on their phone. Wondering <em>how to track my kids\u2019 phones<\/em> while respecting their privacy and keeping their trust? Here\u2019s a comprehensive guide.<\/p>\n<h2>Contents:<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"contents\">\n<li><a href=\"#1\">How Does Phone Tracking Work<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#2\">How to Put a Tracker on Your Child\u2019s Phone<\/a>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#3\">Setting Up Find My in iOS<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#4\">Setting Up Google Family Link<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#5\">How to Set Up the Findmykids App<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#6\">Best Apps to Track Your Child\u2019s Location<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#7\">Why Findmykids is a Trusted Option for Families<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#8\">Tips for Parents: Using Location Tracking Without Breaking Trust<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#9\">FAQs<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"1\">How Does Phone Tracking Work<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_54866\" style=\"width: 502px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-54866\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-54866\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/How-Does-Phone-Tracking-Work.webp\" alt=\"\" width=\"492\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/How-Does-Phone-Tracking-Work.webp 472w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/How-Does-Phone-Tracking-Work-295x300.webp 295w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/How-Does-Phone-Tracking-Work-148x150.webp 148w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/How-Does-Phone-Tracking-Work-385x392.webp 385w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 492px) 100vw, 492px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-54866\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Credit: <span style=\"color: #000000;\"><a style=\"color: #000000;\"  rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/nl-tracki.glopalstore.com\/pages\/how-gps-tracker-works-and-cell-phone-tower-triangulation-accuracy\"\" rel=\"nofollow\">nl-tracki.glopalstore.com<\/a><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<p>Phone tracking can rely on one or a combination of three technologies to approximate a device\u2019s location:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left; width: 100%;\">\n<li><strong>Global Positioning System (GPS)<\/strong>: Known as the most accurate location technology, GPS trackers use satellites to pinpoint a device\u2019s location with high accuracy, especially outdoors.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wi-Fi positioning<\/strong>: Apps that rely on Wi-Fi estimate location by assessing the device\u2019s position relative to nearby Wi-Fi networks, which works best indoors or in areas where GPS signals may not be as strong.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cellular triangulation<\/strong>: Although the least accurate, cellular triangulation is the most widely available. This technology uses signals from multiple cell towers to triangulate a phone\u2019s estimated location.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Tracking apps often use a combination of these technologies and switch between them depending on which one would be most effective to give an accurate estimate based on a device\u2019s surrounding conditions.<\/p>\n<p>Out of the box, most phones come with pre-installed tracking software depending on their operating system.<\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left; width: 100%;\">\n<li><strong>Find My<\/strong>: The Find My app is an iOS software that lets users track all of the Apple devices logged into their Apple ID account. The app also lets parents keep track of their children with its location-sharing feature.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Google Family Link<\/strong>: While it isn\u2019t a dedicated locating app, Google Family Link gives parents some control over their child\u2019s device, including keeping track of their physical location. It\u2019s essentially a parental-control app with the added function of location tracking.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Note that there are other, third-party apps available for download that let parents monitor their children\u2019s whereabouts in real time. Some of these include:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left; width: 100%;\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.onelink.me\/xY6s?pid=content_team&amp;c=en&amp;af_channel=blog&amp;af_adset=article&amp;af_ad=how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone&amp;af_sub1=text0\"><strong>Findmykids<\/strong><\/a>: Developed specifically for parents monitoring their children, the Findmykids app provides real-time location and sends parents alerts when their child arrives or leaves assigned places. It also comes with a sound monitoring feature that lets parents listen in on their children\u2019s present surroundings.<\/li>\n<li><a  rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/kids360.onelink.me\/ykI8?pid=content_team&amp;c=en&amp;af_channel=blog&amp;af_adset=article&amp;af_ad=how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone&amp;af_sub1=text\"\"><strong>Kids360<\/strong><\/a>: Similar to Google Family Link, Kids360 is more of a parental-control app that lets parents monitor their children\u2019s mobile phone usage activity. However, it does have location-sharing capabilities, although a little less sophisticated.<\/li>\n<li><a id=\"readmore\" href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/en\/life360-vs-findmykids\"><strong>Life360<\/strong><\/a>: This location tracking app lets users create family circles that place the devices within that family on a map for simultaneous tracking. Life360 also comes with helpful tracking features like arrival\/departure notifications, travel logs, and crash alerts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"highlight_PastelYellow\">Read more: <a id=\"readmore\" href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/en\/how-do-gps-trackers-work\">How Do GPS Trackers Work?<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"2\">How to Put a Tracker on Your Child\u2019s Phone<\/h2>\n<p>So how do you put a tracker on your kids\u2019 phones? First things first\u2014it\u2019s important to respect a child\u2019s privacy regardless of their age. Parents should <a href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/en\/how-to-negotiate-with-the-kid-about-installing-a-program-that-shows-his-location\">make sure to talk to their kids<\/a> about their chosen tracker app, what it does, and why it\u2019s important.<\/p>\n<p>Being transparent with the tracker and what it does can help make children feel safe while maintaining their trust.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"3\">Setting Up Find My in iOS<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>Ensure that both the parent and the child have an Apple ID account.<\/li>\n<li>On the parent\u2019s smartphone, navigate to Settings \u2192 Your Name \u2192 Family Sharing.<img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-54864 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-1024x683.png\" alt=\"how to track your kids phone\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-150x100.png 150w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-808x539.png 808w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-392x261.png 392w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-1232x821.png 1232w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS.png 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>Choose Add Member \u2192 Invite People.<img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-54860 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-2.png\" alt=\"what is the best tracker for kids\" width=\"628\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-2.png 628w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-2-188x300.png 188w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-2-94x150.png 94w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-2-507x808.png 507w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-2-246x392.png 246w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 628px) 100vw, 628px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>Send an invitation to your child\u2019s Apple ID and have them accept the invitation from their device.<\/li>\n<li>On the child\u2019s iPhone, go to Settings \u2192 Child\u2019s Name \u2192 Find My.<\/li>\n<li>Choose Share My Location and toggle it on.<img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-54861 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3-1024x683.png\" alt=\"what is the best gps tracker for kids\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3-150x100.png 150w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3-808x539.png 808w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3-392x261.png 392w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3-1232x821.png 1232w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-3.png 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>Ensure that Find My iPhone is enabled by going to Settings \u2192 Child\u2019s Name \u2192 Find My \u2192 Find My iPhone \u2192 toggle it on.<\/li>\n<li>Also, enable Offline Finding and Send Last Location<img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-54862 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-4.png\" alt=\"what is a good tracker for kids\" width=\"628\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-4.png 628w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-4-188x300.png 188w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-4-94x150.png 94w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-4-507x808.png 507w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-4-246x392.png 246w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 628px) 100vw, 628px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>Back on the parents\u2019 smartphone, open the Find My app, tap People at the bottom, and select your child. This will show their real-time location on the map.<img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-54863 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-5-1024x957.png\" alt=\"put a tracker on your kids phone \" width=\"1024\" height=\"957\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-5-1024x957.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-5-300x280.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-5-150x140.png 150w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-5-768x718.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-5-808x755.png 808w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-5-392x366.png 392w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Find-My-in-iOS-5.png 1070w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Remember that Find My iPhone only works on iOS devices. Another thing to consider is that if the child figures out how to toggle device location sharing on and off, they can restrict tracking and prevent their parents from identifying their location.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"4\">Setting Up Google Family Link<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>On the parents\u2019 phone, install Google Family Link for parents. On the child\u2019s device, install Google Family Link and set it up for teens or kids.<\/li>\n<li>Link the child\u2019s account to the Family Group by following the prompts and instructions within the app.<\/li>\n<li>On the child\u2019s Android phone, go to Settings \u2192 Google \u2192 Location \u2192 Google Location Accuracy \u2192 and toggle on.<img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-54870 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-1024x683.png\" alt=\" track my kids phone\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-150x100.png 150w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-600x400.png 600w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-808x539.png 808w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-392x261.png 392w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-1232x821.png 1232w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link.png 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>Ensure the location tracking feature is turned on by going to Settings \u2192 Location \u2192 toggle on.<img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-54869 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-2-1024x957.png\" alt=\"track your kids phone\" width=\"1024\" height=\"957\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-2-1024x957.png 1024w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-2-300x280.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-2-150x140.png 150w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-2-768x718.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-2-808x755.png 808w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-2-392x366.png 392w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Setting-Up-Google-Family-Link-2.png 1070w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>Using the parent\u2019s device, open Family Link and select the child\u2019s account \u2192 Manage Settings \u2192 Location \u2192 toggle on.<\/li>\n<li>Enable Find Your Child to identify the child\u2019s location in real-time on a map.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Keep in mind that Google Family Link is not a dedicated tracking app, so some more advanced features like SOS are not available. Alternatively, parents can install the Google Find Hub, which is Google\u2019s dedicated location sharing program.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"5\">How to Set Up the Findmykids App<\/h3>\n<div id=\"attachment_51632\" style=\"width: 831px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.onelink.me\/xY6s?pid=content_team&amp;c=en&amp;af_channel=blog&amp;af_adset=article&amp;af_ad=how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone&amp;af_sub1=banner\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-51632\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-51632 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/02\/Simple-Steps-to-Set-up-FMK-1.png\" alt=\"how to track my kids phone\" width=\"821\" height=\"520\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/02\/Simple-Steps-to-Set-up-FMK-1.png 821w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/02\/Simple-Steps-to-Set-up-FMK-1-300x190.png 300w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/02\/Simple-Steps-to-Set-up-FMK-1-150x95.png 150w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/02\/Simple-Steps-to-Set-up-FMK-1-768x486.png 768w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/02\/Simple-Steps-to-Set-up-FMK-1-808x512.png 808w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/02\/Simple-Steps-to-Set-up-FMK-1-392x248.png 392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 821px) 100vw, 821px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-51632\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Installing Findmykids<\/p><\/div>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.onelink.me\/xY6s?pid=content_team&amp;c=en&amp;af_channel=blog&amp;af_adset=article&amp;af_ad=how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone&amp;af_sub1=text\">Install the Findmykids<\/a>: GPS Tracker app for parents via the App Store or on Google Play.<\/li>\n<li>On the child\u2019s phone, install the Pingo app.<\/li>\n<li>Create an account on the parent\u2019s device, and follow the prompts in-app to add the child\u2019s account and device.<\/li>\n<li>On the child\u2019s device, open the app and pair it with the parent app using the QR code or the unique code provided in the app.<\/li>\n<li>Grant location permissions on the child\u2019s device by navigating to Settings \u2192 Location \u2192 Always Allow.<\/li>\n<li>See to it that the Background App Refresh feature is turned on.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Once the child\u2019s device\/account is linked, parents can go into the app on their phone and set Safe Zones (geofencing). This feature lets parents mark key areas like Home or School so they receive alerts whenever their children leave or arrive at their geofenced locations.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"6\">Best Apps to Track Your Child\u2019s Location<\/h2>\n<p>Choosing the right app depends on your child\u2019s age, the device they use, and how much independence and support they need day to day. Some families only want simple location sharing, while others need reliable safety tools that work both at home and at school. Before downloading anything, review your child\u2019s device type (iOS or a child\u2019s Android phone) and make sure location settings are properly turned on so the app can function smoothly.<\/p>\n<p>Below is a closer look at the most popular options and what job each one does best:<\/p>\n<p>\u2192\u2192\u2192<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-container\">\n<table border=\"1\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 10%; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4; font-size: 18px;\"><strong>Mobile App<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 45%; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4; font-size: 18px;\"><strong>Pros<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 45%; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4; font-size: 18px;\"><strong>Cons<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\"><strong>Apple Find My\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\">\u2014 Built-in and free to use on iOS devices<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Battery-efficient because it\u2019s system-level<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Relatively secure as it\u2019s part of Apple\u2019s ecosystem<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 A set-it-and-forget-it type of software that runs efficiently in the background with not much need for maintenance or updates<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\">\u2014 Platform-locked, can\u2019t be used to track devices that are not iOS<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Children have the option to turn off location sharing from their own device<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Bare-bone tracking functions\u2014no SOS, no panic button, no insights<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\"><strong>Google Family Link\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\">\u2014 Option to set geofences that send alerts when a child enters or leaves a specific location<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Uses various location signals, including GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular triangulation<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Lets users choose location modes (high-accuracy, battery saving, device only) to balance out accuracy and battery efficiency<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Free and no subscription needed<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\">\u2014 Does not provide a detailed location history<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Location function may \u2018sleep\u2019 and location updates may not be instant unless the child is actively using their phone<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Platform-locked for Android devices only<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.onelink.me\/xY6s?pid=content_team&amp;c=en&amp;af_channel=blog&amp;af_adset=article&amp;af_ad=how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone&amp;af_sub1=table\"><strong>Findmykids<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\">\u2014 Provides accurate, real-time GPS tracking as well as a history of where the device has been<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Safe Zones feature lets parents set geofences with alert systems that detect when a child leaves or arrives<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Kids can send an SOS signal to their parents when they feel unsafe, which triggers a loud alert on the parent\u2019s device.<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Sound Around feature activates the child\u2019s microphone so parents can listen in to their surroundings<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Loud Signal function allows parents to call the child\u2019s phone, triggering a loud ring regardless of whether the device is on silent mode<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Parents have the option to screen and block unknown callers from their child\u2019s phone<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Certified compliant with child-safety\/privacy standards<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\">\u2014 Many features can only be unlocked by subscribing to a paid plan<\/p>\n<p>\u2013 Continuous location tracking does cause battery efficiency issues<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Features like Sound Around and SOS require an active and stable Wi-Fi or data connection<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\"><a  rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/kids360.onelink.me\/ykI8?pid=content_team&amp;c=en&amp;af_channel=blog&amp;af_adset=article&amp;af_ad=how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone&amp;af_sub1=table\"\"><strong>Kids360<\/strong><\/a><\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\">\u2014 Provides real-time tracking functionality that tells parents where their children are on a map<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Provides strong screen-time tools: daily limits, schedules for \u201cstudy\/sleep,\u201d and app blocking<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Includes a system of developmental tasks (logic, attention, problem-solving) that kids can complete to earn extra screen time<\/td>\n<td>\u2014 Not a dedicated location tracking software<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Kids can disable GPS tracking on their gadgets<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\"><strong>Life360 app<\/strong><\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\">\u2014 Geofencing feature lets parents set specific areas like \u2018home\u2019 or \u2018school\u2019, so alerts are sent whenever their children leave\/arrive at these designated places<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Safety features include SOS and check-in. For children of driving age, the app also tracks risky driving and crashes<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 No-show alerts send notifications to parents if a child does not arrive at a specific location by a set time<\/td>\n<td style=\"height: 88px; width: 196.019px; padding: 0px 10px; line-height: 1.4;\">\u2014 Lots of features are locked behind a paywall<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Some users have complained about a lack of strong security features, leaving children\u2019s phones at risk of data privacy risks<\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Because the app is constantly running in the background, battery life can take a hit<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"7\">Why Findmykids is a Trusted Option for Families<\/h2>\n<p>With so many tracking and parental-control apps available today, it\u2019s not always easy for parents to choose the right one. What makes <a href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/\">Findmykids<\/a> stand out is that it isn\u2019t a general safety app or an adults-oriented tool repurposed for kids \u2014 it was built <strong>specifically for families<\/strong>, with real everyday scenarios in mind. Whether your child is walking to school, riding the bus, staying after class, or gaining their first bit of independence, the app is designed to give parents reliable support without overwhelming the child\u2019s privacy.<\/p>\n<p>Parents often highlight Findmykids for its <strong>accuracy<\/strong>, <strong>stability<\/strong>, and <strong>child-centered approach<\/strong>. Instead of simply showing a dot on the map, it offers context and safety features that help adults understand what\u2019s happening around the child and react quickly if needed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"highlight_PastelYellow\"><a id=\"readmore\" href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/en\/findmykids-real-parent-reviews\">True Stories: How Findmykids Helps Parents Keep Kids Safe and Close<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Some of its most helpful features as a <a id=\"readmore\" href=\"http:\/\/findmykids.org\/features\/real-time-location\">kids\u2019 location tracker<\/a> include:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left; width: 100%;\">\n<li>Geofencing and location-based alerts<\/li>\n<li>Sound Around<\/li>\n<li>Accurate real-time child\u2019s location tracking<\/li>\n<li>Location history<\/li>\n<li>SOS Signal msg\/Emergency button<\/li>\n<li>Loud Signal<\/li>\n<li>Battery monitoring<\/li>\n<li>App usage\/screen time monitoring<\/li>\n<li>Unwanted call blocker<\/li>\n<li>Family chat\/conversation<\/li>\n<li>Unlimited device tracking for multiple kids\/gadgets<\/li>\n<li>GPS watch and Apple Watch compatibility<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>On top of all of that, Findmykids is compatible with both iOS and Android, allowing families to add various devices to the software without any platform restrictions.<\/p>\n<p class=\"highlight_PastelBlue\">Ready to feel more confident about your child\u2019s safety? <a href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.onelink.me\/xY6s?pid=content_team&amp;c=en&amp;af_channel=blog&amp;af_adset=article&amp;af_ad=how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone&amp;af_sub1=CTA\">Download the Findmykids app<\/a> and try all the core features for free to see how it can support your family\u2019s daily routine!<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"8\">Tips for Parents: Using Location Tracking Without Breaking Trust<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_54857\" style=\"width: 760px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-54857\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-54857\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"how do you put a tracker on your kids phone\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1-808x539.jpg 808w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1-392x261.jpg 392w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1-1232x821.jpg 1232w, https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Happy-father-and-daughter-looking-at-each-other-holding-mobile-phone-1.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-54857\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">freepik\/Freepik<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Location tracking works best when it supports a child\u2019s growing independence, not when it replaces it. Here are some parent-tested tips to help you stay connected while protecting trust and privacy:<\/p>\n<h3>1. Talk openly before you install anything<\/h3>\n<p>Kids react much better when they understand <em>why<\/em> the app is being added. Explain that the goal is to protect them, not to monitor every move. Let them ask questions\u2014this makes it feel like a shared plan rather than a rule imposed from the top-right corner of your own phone.<\/p>\n<h3>2. Review location settings together<\/h3>\n<p>Walk through the app on their device and show them what data the app collects, how alerts work, and what they can control. This transparency helps them feel respected, especially older kids and teens.<\/p>\n<h3>3. Agree on when tracking matters most<\/h3>\n<p>For many families, this includes walking to school, going to after-class activities, or traveling alone with a backpack. Making a plan helps the child understand when the app genuinely supports their safety.<\/p>\n<h3>4. Use alerts carefully<\/h3>\n<p>If your child is old enough to make simple calls or voice messages on their own, avoid sending constant notifications. Too many alerts can feel intrusive and lead kids to push back or try to turn off location sharing.<\/p>\n<h3>5. Keep the conversation going<\/h3>\n<p>As children grow, their needs change. What works for a 9-year-old may feel too restrictive for a 13-year-old. Set a time to review the app together and upgrade rules as they become more responsible.<\/p>\n<h3>6. Support independence, don\u2019t limit it<\/h3>\n<p>The best tracking apps help kids build confidence. Use them as tools for safety\u2014not control. Celebrate moments when your child handles new routes or responsibilities on their own.<\/p>\n<h3>7. Model healthy tech use yourself<\/h3>\n<p>Kids watch how adults use technology. If they see you treating tracking as a shared safety tool rather than a way to supervise, they\u2019re more likely to accept it calmly.<\/p>\n<p class=\"highlight_PastelYellow\">Related: <a id=\"readmore\" href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/en\/best-location-tracking-apps\">Best Apps to Track Child Location For Caring Parents<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Peace of Mind, Anytime, Anywhere<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_51630\" style=\"width: 760px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-51630\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-51630\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/02\/real-time-location-FMK.gif\" alt=\"how to track your kids phone\" width=\"750\" height=\"511\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-51630\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Findmykids app<\/p><\/div>\n<p>With all the technology available today, there\u2019s no reason to take risks with children\u2019s safety. Something as simple as a mobile app can give parents peace of mind whenever their kids step out the door.<\/p>\n<p>For most families, <a href=\"https:\/\/findmykids.onelink.me\/xY6s?pid=content_team&amp;c=en&amp;af_channel=blog&amp;af_adset=article&amp;af_ad=how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone&amp;af_sub1=end\">Findmykids<\/a> provides an extensive array of features that cover all the bases without encroaching on a child\u2019s privacy. Just make sure to get the child\u2019s consent and discuss the specifics so they can be included and proactive in their own safety.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"9\">FAQs<\/h2>\n<h3>How do you put a tracker on your kid&#8217;s phone?<\/h3>\n<p>It depends on the tracker app chosen. Generally, apps require that a child\u2019s phone be linked to a parent\u2019s phone via an email address or in-app account. Every app has a different process (as discussed above).<\/p>\n<h3>How to track the location of a child\u2019s phone?<\/h3>\n<p>Tracking a kid\u2019s phone can be done with the use of a location app. Devices connected to each other within the app will be granted location access so parents can identify their children\u2019s whereabouts from within the program. This also means that children need to opt in and consent via their device, so their location is only shared with authorized individuals.<\/p>\n<h3>Can someone track your phone without you knowing it?<\/h3>\n<p>It is possible, but that would often entail that someone had the opportunity to physically hold the phone and install a tracker app without the owner\u2019s knowledge, which is both difficult and unlikely. Some apps also ask for location permissions, which means that the specific app may collect location data for its developers\u2019 use. With tracking apps, it is necessary for the owner of the phone to consent first before location data is shared with anyone else on the platform.<\/p>\n<h3>Can I track my daughter\u2019s iPhone?<\/h3>\n<p>Yes, with the child\u2019s consent. Apple smartphones natively use Find My iPhone as their tracking app. Parents can locate their children via the app as long as the child opts to share their location with the parent\u2019s device\/account. Third-party apps like Life360 and Findmykids provide similar features with more robust safety options to track iPhones.<\/p>\n<h3>What\u2019s the best location tracker for my kid\u2019s phone?<\/h3>\n<p>That really depends on the kind of tracking functionality that best fits a family\u2019s needs. For younger kids who need more robust safety features and tracking, Findmykids is a great option. But for older kids with greater independence, the basic location functions of Find My and Family Link app may be more than enough.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 10px; font-weight: 100; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;\">Cover image: ijeab\/Freepik<\/p>\n\t\t<div class=\"wpulike wpulike-default \" ><div class=\"wp_ulike_general_class wp_ulike_is_not_liked\"><button type=\"button\"\n\t\t\t\t\taria-label=\"Like Button\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-id=\"54850\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-nonce=\"3c4e873ea3\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-type=\"likeThis\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-template=\"wpulike-default\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-display-likers=\"0\"\n\t\t\t\t\tdata-ulike-disable-pophover=\"0\"\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"wp_ulike_btn wp_ulike_put_image wp_likethis_54850\"><\/button><\/div><\/div>\n\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>It\u2019s any parent\u2019s comfort to know that their kids are safe at all times. Fortunately,&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":54856,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"layf_related_links":[""],"layf_exclude_from_feed":["1"],"classic-editor-remember":["classic-editor"],"_edit_lock":["1771338277:1"],"_edit_last":["1"],"mpulseenable_meta_value":["no"],"yzcategory_meta_value":["\u0414\u043e\u043c"],"yzrating_meta_value":["\u041d\u0435\u0442 (\u043d\u0435 \u0434\u043b\u044f \u0432\u0437\u0440\u043e\u0441\u043b\u044b\u0445)"],"yzrssenabled_meta_value":["no"],"saswp_custom_schema_field":[""],"_s2mail":["yes"],"hide-in-popular":[""],"_hide-in-popular":["field_5d0c8a5b4fde2"],"\u0430\u0432\u0442\u043e\u0440":["\u0412\u0430\u0441\u0438\u043b\u0438\u0439 \u0421\u043c\u0438\u0440\u043d\u043e\u0432"],"_\u0430\u0432\u0442\u043e\u0440":["field_5e33cab3984d1"],"\u0444\u043e\u0442\u043e":[""],"_\u0444\u043e\u0442\u043e":["field_5e33cbc1984d2"],"custom_title":[""],"_custom_title":["field_67cfbde67c007"],"custom_image":[""],"_custom_image":["field_67d012de223ac"],"custom_alt":[""],"_custom_alt":["field_67d012f6223ad"],"read_more":[""],"_read_more":["field_67d0130e223ae"],"_aioseo_title":["How Do You Put a Tracker on Your Kids' Phone? A Step-by-Step Guide | Findmykids"],"_aioseo_description":["Learn how to put a tracker on your kid\u2019s phone safely and respectfully. A practical guide to tools, trust-building, and keeping family communication open"],"_aioseo_keywords":[""],"_aioseo_og_title":[null],"_aioseo_og_description":[null],"_aioseo_og_article_section":[""],"_aioseo_og_article_tags":[""],"_aioseo_twitter_title":[null],"_aioseo_twitter_description":[null],"_thumbnail_id":["54856"],"_wp_old_slug":["how-do-you-put-a-tracker-on-your-kids-phone-and-keep-their-trust"],"_ez-toc-disabled":[""],"_ez-toc-insert":[""],"_ez-toc-header-label":[""],"_ez-toc-device-target":[""],"_ez-toc-alignment":["none"],"_ez-toc-heading-levels":["a:0:{}"],"_ez-toc-alttext":[""],"_ez-toc-visibility_hide_by_default":[""],"_ez-toc-hide_counter":[""],"_ez-toc-exclude":[""],"_ez-toc-word_count_limit":["0"],"_ez-toc-position-specific":[""]},"categories":[707],"tags":[561,503,553],"language":[3],"acf":{"custom_title":"","custom_image":"","custom_alt":"","read_more":""},"aioseo_notices":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Mini-figure-traveler-with-red-pushpin-and-a-map-travel-concept.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Khadija Bilal","author_link":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/ru\/author\/khadija-bilal"},"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/cdn-blog.findmykids.org\/2025\/11\/Mini-figure-traveler-with-red-pushpin-and-a-map-travel-concept.jpg","reading_time":"11","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54850"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=54850"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54850\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":54871,"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/54850\/revisions\/54871"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/54856"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=54850"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=54850"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=54850"},{"taxonomy":"language","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/findmykids.org\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/language?post=54850"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}