A GPS watch for kids gives parents peace of mind—but without the right settings, it can expose children to unwanted risks. That’s where parental controls come in. Setting up proper restrictions helps parents manage who can contact their child, what features can be used, and how location data is shared.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to set up parental controls on a child’s GPS watch, what to check before activating them, and how to keep your child’s information private and secure.
Why Parental Controls Are Important
Parental controls aren’t about spying—they’re about creating safe boundaries and building healthy habits around technology.
- Protects privacy: Prevents strangers or unapproved contacts from accessing your child’s information.
- Limits distractions: Restricts non-essential apps like games or cameras during school hours.
- Prevents misuse: Ensures children use the device for communication and safety, not entertainment.
- Encourages responsible use: Helps teach digital safety and independence within clear limits.
- Peace of mind for parents: Lets you monitor activity while respecting your child’s growing autonomy.
Summary: Parental controls help parents create a safe, distraction-free experience while teaching kids to use their GPS watch responsibly.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Set Up Parental Controls
Most modern GPS watches for kids are paired with a companion app (usually installed on the parent’s smartphone). Here’s how to set up controls effectively:
- Download the official companion app: Use the brand’s verified app (e.g., SeTracker, Xplora App, or Watchu Guardian App).
- Pair the device: Follow the setup instructions to connect the watch to your account using its unique QR code or IMEI number.
- Add authorised contacts: Only approved numbers can call or message your child. Block unknown or hidden numbers.
- Enable location tracking: Turn on real-time GPS updates and adjust tracking intervals (e.g., every 5 or 10 minutes).
- Create geofencing zones: Set up safe zones around your home, school, or relatives’ houses. You’ll receive alerts if your child leaves these areas.
- Turn on SOS emergency contacts: Add up to three emergency numbers for quick alerts in case of danger.
- Activate school or quiet mode: Disable calls, alerts, or games during class hours to minimise distractions.
- Review privacy settings: Disable unnecessary permissions like camera or microphone access if not needed.
- Set up app notifications: Ensure the app notifies you instantly for SOS alerts or geofence breaches.
- Test all features: Conduct a practice run to ensure everything functions properly.
According to Parents.com, regularly testing settings and updates ensures GPS watches continue working smoothly while keeping personal data secure (Parents.com).
Summary: Using the watch’s companion app, parents can manage contacts, location settings, and SOS alerts—all from their smartphone.
What Features Can Parents Control?
Depending on the brand and model, parental control options may include:
- Contact management: Approve or block specific numbers.
- Call restrictions: Limit communication to family members only.
- App access: Disable features like camera, games, or internet browsing.
- Location tracking: Customise update frequency and tracking radius.
- Emergency alerts: Adjust who receives SOS notifications.
- Do-not-disturb (school) mode: Silence notifications during school or bedtime.
- Data sharing permissions: Control how the app shares information with third parties.
Summary: Most GPS watches offer flexible parental control options so parents can tailor settings based on their child’s age and maturity.
Tips for Balancing Control and Trust
It’s important to use parental controls as a safety net—not a surveillance tool. Here’s how to maintain balance:
- Communicate openly: Explain to your child why settings are necessary for safety.
- Respect privacy: Avoid checking every movement unless necessary.
- Involve your child: Let them help set safe zones and understand how alerts work.
- Adjust settings over time: As your child grows, gradually loosen restrictions to promote trust.
- Review settings regularly: Update permissions as the app or firmware evolves.
Summary: Parental controls work best when used to build trust, not limit independence.
Conclusion
Parental controls on kids’ GPS watches give parents the power to protect privacy, limit distractions, and ensure the device is used safely. Setting them up takes just a few minutes but provides lasting peace of mind. With the right balance of boundaries and communication, GPS watches can empower children while keeping them secure.
To explore a family-friendly GPS watch with built-in parental controls, visit the Watchu Guardian.
FAQ:
Q: Can I block unknown numbers on a GPS watch?
A: Yes. Most GPS watches allow you to whitelist approved contacts and block all unknown calls or messages.
Q: Can parental controls be changed remotely?
A: Absolutely. You can adjust settings anytime through the companion app on your phone.
Q: Do GPS watches let parents track location all the time?
A: Yes, though tracking frequency can be customised to preserve battery life.
Q: Is it possible to disable games or camera features?
A: Many watches include a “School Mode” or “Quiet Mode” that temporarily disables non-essential functions.