Parents rely on GPS watches to help keep children safe, and one of the most important features is the SOS button. But for this tool to work effectively, kids need to understand when and how to use it. Teaching SOS responsibility ensures that children feel confident in emergencies while avoiding unnecessary false alerts.
When Should Kids Use the SOS Button on Their GPS Watch?
Before giving a child a GPS watch, parents should explain the purpose of the SOS button clearly and simply. Children must understand that it is a safety feature meant for urgent situations—not everyday questions or minor inconveniences.
Parents can give examples of appropriate SOS situations:
- Feeling unsafe around unfamiliar people
- Getting lost in public places
- Experiencing a fall or injury when no trusted adult is nearby
- Being separated from family during travel or school events
- Facing an emergency where they need immediate help
It helps to compare the SOS button to calling a parent during an emergency at school—it’s only for urgent needs.
Parents can also explain what not to use the SOS button for:
- Asking to go home early
- Telling a parent they’re hungry or bored
- Pressing it for fun to “see what happens”
- Contacting parents instead of speaking to a nearby teacher or adult
Children often learn best with repetition, real-life examples, and simple explanations. Reinforcing these guidelines helps them build the judgment to use the SOS button responsibly.
Summary: Kids should understand that the SOS button is for urgent or unsafe situations, not minor problems.
How Can Parents Practise SOS Use With Their Children?
Children learn faster when they’re given a chance to practise, not just listen. Role-playing helps them recognise when it’s appropriate to press the SOS button and how the process works from start to finish.
Parents can practise scenarios such as:
Scenario 1: Getting lost in a supermarket
- “You can’t see Mum or Dad—what do you do?”
- Child presses SOS.
- Parent responds and guides them to store staff.
Scenario 2: Feeling unsafe on the way to school
- Child notices something unusual or uncomfortable.
- They press SOS and send an alert.
- Parent walks them through what will happen next.
Scenario 3: A minor issue
- The child drops a snack or wants to ask a question.
- Parent asks: “Is this an SOS situation?”
- Child learns to identify non-emergencies.
Practising helps reduce hesitation in real emergencies and reduces accidental alerts. It also reassures children that parents will respond quickly and calmly.
Additionally, parents can:
- Show kids what the notification looks like on their phone
- Practise staying calm when pressing the button
- Explain that it’s never wrong to use the SOS feature if they truly feel unsafe
This empowers children to use the tool correctly and confidently.
Summary: Practising real-life situations helps children learn when and how to use the SOS button effectively.
How Can Parents Reinforce Responsible SOS Use Over Time?
As kids grow, their needs and environments change, meaning SOS education should be ongoing. Regular check-ins help make sure children continue using the SOS feature appropriately and responsibly.
Parents can reinforce good habits by:
- Having monthly reminders: “When should you use the SOS button?”
- Asking about school or play situations: “Did anything today feel unsafe?”
- Reviewing what counts as an emergency
- Praising children when they use the button correctly
- Discussing accidental presses calmly instead of scolding them
It’s also important for children to know they won’t get in trouble if they use the SOS button during a genuine moment of fear. If kids think they’ll be punished, they might hesitate in a real emergency.
Parents should also revisit safety rules when:
- The child starts walking to school
- New classmates or routines are introduced
- Holiday travel begins
- The family visits crowded places
- The child starts gaining more independence outdoors
Consistent reinforcement keeps children confident, prepared, and aware of their safety tools.
Summary: Ongoing guidance and positive reinforcement help children use the SOS button responsibly as they grow.
Conclusion
Teaching children to use the SOS button responsibly ensures they can act quickly and confidently when faced with a challenging or unsafe situation. Through clear explanation, practical role-playing, and regular reminders, parents can help kids understand the importance of this powerful safety feature.
Explore the Watchu Guardian today to support your child’s safety and confidence in real-world situations.
FAQ
Q: What age can kids start using an SOS button responsibly?
A: Many children aged 5–7 can learn SOS basics, but readiness depends on maturity and ability to follow instructions.
Q: How can I prevent my child from accidentally pressing the SOS button?
A: Regular practice, clear rules, and showing your child how the alert works help reduce accidental triggers.
Q: Should I punish my child for pressing SOS by mistake?
A: No. Stay calm and use it as a teaching moment so they understand the difference between emergencies and non-emergencies.
Q: How often should parents review SOS rules with children?
A: Monthly reminders or quick check-ins during routine changes help reinforce responsible use.