Can I Put a GPS Tracker on My Child? (Devices & Implications)

Discover how you can GPS track your kid. Learn the ethical and legal implications of GPS tracking while exploring other child monitoring alternatives.

Let me tell you, as a dad of two, I’m constantly torn between wanting to keep my kids safe and giving them the freedom to explore the world. With the news full of stories about missing children and other scary situations, it’s no wonder we’re all looking for ways to keep our little ones secure. One option that’s been gaining popularity is GPS tracking for kids. But can we really put a GPS tracker on our child? And should we?

This article will cover the following:

• Types of GPS Trackers for Children
• Benefits of Using a GPS Tracker
• Ethical Considerations
• Legal Implications
• Choosing the Right GPS Tracker
• Alternatives to GPS Tracking
• Conclusion

Before we dive in, let’s clear up a common misconception. When talking about GPS trackers for kids, we’re not discussing implanting a chip in their bodies (which sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie!). We’re referring to wearable devices, like watches or bracelets, that use GPS technology to help us keep tabs on our children’s whereabouts.

Let’s start by understanding the different types available.

Types of GPS Trackers for Children: Navigating the Maze of Options

As a father of two adorable but adventurous kids, I understand the desire to keep them safe and sound. With all the marketing hype surrounding GPS trackers, it’s hard not to be curious about the different types available. But, as a cautious dad, I was also skeptical about their effectiveness.

So, I’ve done my homework, and I’m sharing what I’ve learned with you.

What Are the Popular GPS Trackers for Children?

1. GPS Watches: These wearable devices are like miniaturized computers on your child’s wrist. They come with built-in GPS and often have additional features like two-way calling and fitness tracking. However, some parents have reported that their kids find these watches bulky and uncomfortable. And let’s face it, our little ones may not always remember to wear them.
2. GPS Tracker Devices: These small gadgets can be attached to your child’s clothing or backpack or even slipped into their pocket. They usually offer real-time location tracking and customizable geofences. Since your child does not wear them, there’s a risk that they might lose or leave them behind.
3. Smartphone Apps: There are numerous GPS tracking apps available for smartphones, which can be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, these apps can provide real-time location data and other useful features like geofences and SOS buttons. On the other hand, I’m not too keen on buying a phone for a young child. However, my child has less chance of forgetting their phone than anything else. Something I feel like it’s glued to their hand.
4. GPS Tracking for Shoes: Having a GPS discreetly tucked into your child’s shoes might seem clever. These devices are less likely to be forgotten or lost, but they may not be the most comfortable solution. Plus, there’s the issue of battery life again.

When researching GPS trackers for my children, I was not entirely sold on the idea. Let’s take a closer look at how these devices work to help you decide if GPS trackers are right for your family.

How Do GPS Trackers Work?

GPS (Global Positioning System) uses a network of satellites orbiting the Earth to pinpoint your child’s location. These satellites send signals to the GPS tracker, which calculates its position based on the received data. The device calculates its position based on the time the satellite signals take to reach it. The GPS tracker sends location data to your smartphone or computer via a cellular network or Wi-Fi connection. Therefore, you can monitor your child’s location through an app or website.

Sounds great, right? Well, there are some potential drawbacks to consider.

The Downsides of GPS Tracking

1. Signal Interference: GPS signals can be weakened by buildings, trees, or weather conditions, affecting the device’s accuracy.
2. Battery Life: GPS trackers rely on batteries, which must be charged regularly. As parents, we know how forgetful kids can be, so a dead battery could leave us in the dark.
3. Privacy Concerns: GPS tracking raises questions about privacy and data security, especially regarding our kids.
4. Over-Reliance: No technology is foolproof, and relying too heavily on GPS trackers could give us a false sense of security.

As a fellow parent, I understand the desire to keep our children safe. Still, I was not entirely convinced that GPS trackers are the holy grail of child monitoring. After all, technology is no substitute for good old-fashioned parenting.

However, let’s take a step back and consider the benefits these devices promise.

Benefits of Using a GPS Tracker: The Alleged Perks

I used to lose sleep worrying about my kids getting lost or worse, and I wondered if GPS tracking could be the answer. GPS trackers promise the peace of mind I need, but I can’t help being skeptical about their effectiveness. I looked closer at how GPS trackers might help keep our children safe.

How Can a GPS Tracker Keep My Child Safe?

1. Real-Time Location Updates: GPS trackers can provide your child’s location in real-time, giving you an idea of where they are at any moment.
2. Geofencing: Many GPS trackers allow you to create virtual boundaries or “geofences” around specific areas, like your home or school. If your child leaves the designated zone, you’ll receive an alert.
3. Emergency Features: Some GPS trackers have an SOS button that your child can press in case of an emergency, sending an alert to your phone.
4. Building Independence: GPS trackers can help your child develop independence by allowing them to explore their surroundings while being monitored.

While researching for this article, I’ve found many stories from other parents about how GPS trackers have helped them find their lost child or provided reassurance during a family outing. And I could help thinking about when I went camping with my family and lost my son after dark.

We were 5 adults canvassing the entire camping ground, asking people if they saw my son. I was very nervous, and my wife was crying. We found my sons after an hour of search. After going to the playground, as we agreed, he decided to play at his friend’s trailer without letting us know.

The bottom line is If my son had a GPS tracker, I could avoid all that stress. It ruined the night, and we were always on high alert for the rest of the trip. Not fun.

So, Can GPS Trackers Provide Peace of Mind for Parents?

There’s no denying that GPS trackers offer some potential benefits, but they are a double-edged sword. Here’s why!

1. Constant Monitoring: Having access to your child’s location in real-time can be a relief, but it can also become a source of constant worry. Obsessively checking a GPS tracker can increase anxiety rather than peace of mind.
2. False Sense of Security: Relying too much on GPS trackers might give us a false sense of security, making us believe that our kids are always safe as long as we know their location.
3. Technical Issues: GPS trackers, like any other technology, are prone to glitches, battery issues, or signal interference. These problems could leave us in the dark when we need the device the most, adding to our worries instead of alleviating them.
4. Privacy and Trust Concerns: Monitoring your child’s location through a GPS tracker might also affect their privacy and trust in you as a parent.

The goal is to balance ensuring their safety and educating them on responsibilities. If GPS trackers are combined with healthy parenting, they can give parents extra comfort.

Still, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows; let’s talk about the ethical side of GPS trackers, especially with older kids.

Ethical Considerations: Treading the Line

As parents, we want to protect our kids, but we also want to respect their privacy. While GPS trackers promise to provide some level of security, I ponder the ethical implications of tracking my children’s every move. That’s why I want to discuss the moral considerations of using GPS trackers for kids.

Keeping in mind that we’re worried parents, simply trying to find the best way to protect our little ones.

Is It Right to Track Your Child’s Location?

Regarding using GPS trackers for our children, there’s a fine line between ensuring their safety and invading their privacy. Here are some aspects to consider:

1. Age and Maturity: Your child’s age and maturity level play a significant role in determining whether it’s ethical to use a GPS tracker. For younger kids who are more vulnerable, it may be justifiable. But as they grow older and become more responsible, we must gradually give them more freedom and privacy.
2. Open Communication: If you decide to use a GPS tracker, having an open and honest conversation with your child about why you’re using it and how it can help ensure their safety is crucial. Building trust and understanding is key to maintaining a healthy relationship.
3. Respect Boundaries: We must be mindful of our children’s need for privacy and autonomy. Using a GPS tracker should be a temporary measure or a safety net, not a way to control or spy on them.

A friend shared her story of using a GPS tracker for her teenage daughter after a frightening incident. While it helped my friend feel more secure knowing where her daughter was. She also realized the importance of having an open conversation with her daughter about how she would respect her privacy and use the GPS only on certain occasions. For example, if her daughter fails to call after a certain time.

So, How Can I Respect My Child’s Privacy While Ensuring Their Safety?

1. Establish Open Communication: Talk to your child about your concerns and explain why you decided to use a GPS tracker or other safety measures. Honest conversations help build trust and understanding, making them more receptive to your concerns.
2. Set Boundaries and Rules: Clearly define the limits and expectations for using a GPS tracker or other monitoring tools. For example, you might agree only to use it during specific situations, like traveling or going to crowded events, instead of constantly monitoring their location.
3. Encourage Independence: Give your child opportunities to practice decision-making and problem-solving skills. This will not only help them grow more confident and responsible, but it will also reassure you that they can handle situations independently.
4. Prioritize Safety Education: Teach your child about personal safety, stranger danger, and emergency procedures. Empower them with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe so they don’t feel like they’re always under surveillance.

As a worried dad, I understand the urge to always know where our kids are. But I’ve learned that respecting their privacy and fostering trust is equally important for their safety and well-being.

Now that we’ve discussed ethics, it’s time to tackle the legal aspects of GPS tracking.

Legal Implications: Know the Rules

Before strapping a GPS tracker to your child, it’s essential to understand the legal implications. We’ll discuss the legality of GPS tracking and provide some crucial information to ensure you’re playing by the rules, just in case you decide to try it.

Is It Legal to Use a GPS Tracker on My Child?

In most jurisdictions, it is legal for parents or legal guardians to use a GPS tracker on their children, especially if they are minors. The rationale is that as a parent, you are responsible for ensuring your child’s safety and well-being. However, it’s important to remember that this doesn’t give you the green light to invade their privacy without limits.

When it comes to GPS tracking, there are several legal aspects you should be aware of.

What Are the Legal Limitations of GPS Tracking?

1. Consent and Age: In most cases, using a GPS tracker for your minor child is legal as long as you’re their legal guardian. However, suppose your child is above the age of majority (which varies depending on your location). In that case, tracking them without their consent may not be legal.
2. Privacy Laws: While tracking your child might be legally permissible, you must be cautious about accidentally stalking others or violating their privacy rights. For instance, if you place a tracker in a shared vehicle, you could unintentionally monitor someone else’s whereabouts.
3. Data Protection and Storage: Different jurisdictions have varying data collection, storage, and sharing laws. It’s essential to understand the regulations that apply to you and ensure that the GPS tracking device and service provider you choose complies with these rules.

As a concerned parent, you want to make sure that your efforts to keep your children safe don’t inadvertently cross any legal boundaries. Being aware of the legal limitations of GPS tracking is an essential part of making informed decisions about our children’s safety.

Now, let’s cautiously find the right GPS tracker for your child.

Choosing the Right GPS Tracker: Finding the Perfect Fit (If You’re Convinced)

With so many GPS trackers on the market, how do you know which one is best for your child if you’re considering one? Sure, the primary purpose of a GPS tracker is to know your child’s whereabouts, so you’ll want a device that provides accurate and real-time location updates. However, other factors must be considered.

What Features Should I Look for in a GPS Tracker?

• Coverage: GPS trackers use satellite signals to determine the device’s location. Their range is global as long as they have a clear line of sight to the sky and can receive satellite signals. However, it’s important to note that some GPS trackers may also use other technologies like Wi-Fi, cellular, or Bluetooth for location tracking. These technologies usually have a shorter range. For example, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-based tracking systems can range from a few meters to a few hundred meters, which can be more limited in remote or rural areas.
• Accuracy: The accuracy of a GPS tracker can vary depending on factors like the device’s quality, the number of satellites it can connect to, and atmospheric conditions. Typically, GPS trackers for consumers have an accuracy range of about 10-50 meters (33-164 feet), with higher-quality devices offering better accuracy. Wi-Fi or Bluetooth systems usually have a shorter range. Still, they can be more accurate in specific scenarios, such as indoors or in urban areas with a high density of Wi-Fi networks or cell towers.
• Battery Life: Imagine the panic when the GPS tracker runs out of battery when you need it the most. To avoid that nightmare, choose a device with a long-lasting battery. Some trackers even have power-saving modes extending battery life for days or weeks.
• Customizable Alerts and Geofencing: Some GPS trackers allow you to set up geofencing, which means you’ll receive notifications if your child enters or leaves specific areas (like school, home, or a friend’s house). This feature can provide peace of mind without making you feel like you’re constantly spying on your child.
• Durability and Waterproofing: Kids will be kids, and accidents happen. Choose a GPS tracker that’s durable and waterproof to withstand the rough and tumble of everyday life.

Finally, consider the cost of the GPS tracker and any associated subscription fees for the monitoring service. The monthly cost per month could be more than what you expected.

As a father of two, I know that every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for the other.

How Can I Determine Which GPS Tracker Is Best for My Child?

Start by considering what you want from a GPS tracker. Ask yourself what features are essential for you and your child. Do you need real-time location updates, geofencing, or an SOS button?

Besides features, you should also consider your child’s age and maturity. Some trackers may be more appropriate for younger kids, while others cater to older ones. Most GPS trackers are physical devices that your child carries around. Still, you can also track your child’s whereabouts using a parental control app on their phone.

Price is always a factor. So think about how much you will spend on a GPS tracker. Keep in mind that some devices require monthly subscription fees for monitoring services. Determine a budget that allows you to balance quality and affordability.

Lastly, involve your child in the decision-making process. Discuss the reasons behind using a GPS tracker and address any concerns they might have. This conversation can help build trust and ensure your child understands the tracker’s purpose.

If you’re still on the fence about GPS tracking, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some alternatives.

Alternatives to GPS Tracking: No GPS? No Problem

If you’re not ready to jump on the GPS-tracking bandwagon, don’t give up now! While GPS trackers can be helpful, there are other options to ensure our children’s security. There are alternative ways to keep your child safe and teach them essential safety skills for navigating the world.

How Can I Keep My Child Safe Without GPS Tracking?

1. Establishing Trust and Communication: When children feel comfortable talking openly with their parents, they’re more likely to share any concerns or problems they may face. Trust and communication allow parents to guide their kids in making safe decisions, and children can be more receptive to their parents’ advice. Parents can also spot potential dangers and address them before they escalate.
2. The Buddy System: The buddy system works by having kids pair up, making them less vulnerable to potential threats. When children are with a friend, they can look out for each other and seek help if needed. It also serves as a deterrent to predators or bullies who may be less likely to target a group of children than an individual.
3. Regular Check-ins: Regular check-ins help parents stay informed about their child’s whereabouts and activities. This practice ensures parents can quickly respond if their child is late, lost, or in trouble. It also promotes a sense of responsibility in children, as they understand the importance of keeping their parents informed.
4. Teach Basic Safety Skills: Equipping children with essential safety skills helps them to stay safe in various situations. Children can avoid risky situations and protect themselves if necessary by knowing how to call for help or identify potential dangers. These skills foster a sense of independence and empower children to take charge of their safety.
5. Enroll in Safety Programs: Safety programs provide children with practical knowledge and techniques to protect themselves from potential harm. For example, self-defense classes teach kids how to fend off an attacker, while online safety workshops address the dangers of sharing personal information online. These programs boost children’s confidence and ability to handle challenging situations.
6. Set Family Rules for Device Usage: Limiting screen time and setting rules for device usage can reduce the risk of children becoming online predators or cyberbullying targets. Encouraging children to be more aware of their surroundings makes them less likely to be involved in accidents or other incidents caused by distraction. These rules also promote healthier habits and better overall well-being for the entire family.

Remember, GPS trackers can be useful but shouldn’t replace good old-fashioned parenting and safety measures.

How Can I Teach My Child to Be Safe in Public?

Here are some practical tips for instilling safety habits in your children.

1. The Importance of Stranger Danger: Start by explaining the concept of “stranger danger” to your child. Share age-appropriate stories and examples to help them understand that not everyone has good intentions. Teach them never to accept gifts, rides, or invitations from strangers, even if they seem friendly or harmless.
2. Memorize Important Information: Ensure your child knows their full name, address, and phone number. In case they get lost, they can provide this information to a trusted adult or authority figure. My youngest once got separated from us at IKEA, but luckily, he knew our phone number and could call us from a kind employee’s phone.
3. Identifying Safe Spaces and People: Teach your children to recognize safe spaces, such as stores, police stations, or schools, where they can ask for help. Also, discuss which adults they can trust, like teachers, relatives, or a friend’s parent.
4. Be Aware of Their Surroundings: Encourage your kids to stay alert and observe their environment. Teach them to avoid distractions like headphones or screens when walking in public places. My older child now practices this habit and even reminds me to put my phone away when crossing the street!
5. Stick to Familiar Areas: Teach your children to stay within familiar areas and avoid shortcuts in unknown or secluded places. My neighbor’s son once took a shortcut through a wooded area and ended up lost for hours. Luckily, he was found safe, but it was a scary experience for everyone involved.
6. Check-ins and Communication: Establish a system for regular check-ins with your child when they’re out without you. Set clear expectations about when and how they should contact you. Equip them with a basic cell phone, prepaid phone card, or even a walkie-talkie to ensure they can always reach you in an emergency.

By teaching them these safety habits, we empower them to be responsible and aware while enjoying their freedom. And, as parents, that’s the best gift we can give them.

GPS Tracking: The Final Verdict

As a fellow worried dad, I understand the constant tug-of-war between keeping our kids safe and respecting their privacy. GPS trackers can be a helpful tool in some situations. Still, there may be better solutions for some families.

My wife and I bought my son a GPS smartwatch because he likes to explore the neighborhood on his bike. Sometimes he gets too excited and gets lost. So we got him this kid’s friendly smartwatch on Amazon.

Just like we did, you need to weigh the pros and cons. Also, consider the legal and ethical implications to make an informed decision.

In the end, whether you decide to use a GPS tracker or not, remember it’s just one piece of the puzzle. While technology can play a role in our children’s safety, it’s equally important to focus on teaching them the skills they need to stay safe on their own.

Trust your instincts, and choose the right path for you and your family.