Kids are naturally active—they run, climb, jump, and sometimes fall. That’s why a GPS watch for children isn’t just about safety tracking—it’s also about durability. Parents want a device that can survive playground scrapes, outdoor adventures, and even the occasional dive into a puddle. In this blog, we’ll explore how durable a kids’ GPS watch should be, what features make it tough enough for daily use, and how to make it last longer.
Why Durability Matters in a Kids’ GPS Watch
A GPS watch can only protect a child if it keeps working through rough play and daily wear. Durability ensures consistent tracking and communication, even in challenging conditions.
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Children’s lifestyle – Kids are constantly on the move, which means bumps and drops are inevitable.
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Outdoor exposure – From rain to mud, outdoor environments can damage low-quality devices.
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Safety reliability – A cracked screen or damaged GPS chip can interrupt tracking during emergencies.
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Cost efficiency – Investing in a durable watch means fewer repairs or replacements.
Summary: Durability ensures that a GPS watch continues working no matter how active or messy your child’s day gets.
What Makes a Kids’ GPS Watch Durable?
Durability is determined by the materials, design, and construction quality of the watch. Here are the key things to look for:
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Water resistance – Look for watches with at least an IP67 or IP68 rating, meaning they can handle splashes or brief submersion.
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Shock resistance – Reinforced casing or rubberized edges protect the watch from falls or impacts.
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Scratch-proof screen – A hardened glass or Gorilla Glass display helps prevent scratches from everyday use.
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Secure straps – Silicone or TPU straps are flexible, skin-safe, and less likely to break.
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Dust protection – Sealed ports keep out sand, dirt, and small debris during outdoor play.
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Temperature tolerance – Some watches are designed to work even in hot or cold environments.
Summary: A truly durable GPS watch should be water-resistant, shockproof, and made of sturdy, child-safe materials.
How to Protect a GPS Watch During Rough Play
Even durable devices benefit from a few extra precautions:
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Use a screen protector – Prevents cracks and scratches on the display.
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Clean regularly – Dirt buildup can damage charging ports and sensors.
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Avoid over-tightening straps – Keeps the band flexible and comfortable.
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Charge properly – Avoid forcing the charger or exposing it to water.
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Teach responsible use – Encourage your child to remove the watch before swimming or rough sports unless it’s fully waterproof.
Summary: Simple care routines—like cleaning and safe charging—can extend the life of your child’s GPS watch.
Recommended Durability Ratings and What They Mean
Understanding durability ratings helps parents pick the right model:
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IP65 – Dustproof and splash-resistant (light rain).
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IP67 – Can survive being submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes—great for rainy days or quick drops.
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IP68 – Offers higher resistance to water and dust—ideal for outdoor adventures or frequent rough play.
According to TechRadar’s 2024 smartwatch durability guide, devices with IP68 certification are the most suitable for children who spend a lot of time outdoors, balancing waterproofing with long-term wear comfort.
Summary: Look for at least an IP67 rating, but IP68-certified watches offer the best protection for highly active kids.
Conclusion
A kids’ GPS watch should be more than a safety gadget—it should be tough enough to survive daily adventures. Water resistance, shockproof design, and child-safe materials are must-haves for any parent seeking reliability. By choosing a durable, well-built watch and maintaining it properly, parents can ensure long-lasting protection and peace of mind.
To explore a trusted and robust option designed for active children, visit the Watchu Guardian.
FAQ
Q: What is the ideal water-resistance level for a kids’ GPS watch?
A: At least IP67, which protects against rain, splashes, and brief submersion.
Q: Are kids’ GPS watches break-resistant?
A: Many are designed with shockproof casings and scratch-resistant screens, but extra care still helps.
Q: Can kids wear GPS watches while swimming?
A: Only if the watch is IP68-rated or marked as waterproof. Otherwise, it should be removed before swimming.
Q: How often should I clean a GPS watch?
A: Wipe it down weekly with a soft, damp cloth to prevent dirt and moisture damage.