When it comes to giving your child their first mobile device — and the family iPad doesn’t count — the decision feels like a really big one. And it is! Here at Bark, we’re firm believers that a smartwatch is a great choice for younger kids who are starting to become a little more independent, but aren’t quite ready for the responsibility (and potential dangers!) of a smartphone.
But how do you know if the time is right for your family? There’s of course no universal, magic age as every kid is different, but there are some factors to consider that can help you decide if a smartwatch looks like a good idea at the current moment.
Some kids as young as 6 wear them, and even tweens in late middle school have been known to opt for them, too. Here are some things to consider when it comes to making the big decision.
Signs Your Child May Be Ready for a Smartwatch
They take care of their other belongings
Does your child show responsibility with their toys and electronics? This can look like keeping things organized, clean(ish), and used with care. The more they show that they understand the value and importance of protecting their things, the more they’re likely to take good care of a smartwatch, which can be upwards of a hundred dollars.
They’re starting to spend more time outside the house
This is probably the most-mentioned reason parents start looking for smartwatches. Kids begin heading to the bus stop alone, spending time at friends’ houses, and just generally exploring the world a little bit without direct supervision from mom and dad. Being able to track their location with a smartwatch is great for helping keep them and providing you with peace of mind.
They understand basic digital safety
Depending on how young your kid is, they may not know a ton about online safety. But teaching them things like not talking to strangers, not giving out personal information, and other basics are crucial before handing over any device that lets them communicate with the outside world.
They can handle simple chores and routines
Wearing a smartwatch isn’t all just fun and games, as it needs to be plugged in daily, wiped off when grimy, and just generally protected. If your kid has shown that they can feed the dog, empty the dishwasher regularly, or brush their teeth without constant reminders, they’re probably ready to charge their watch on a regular basis so it’s ready to go.
Benefits of Choosing a Smartwatch Over a Smartphone
Harder to lose
This one’s a no-brainer — smartwatches are literally strapped in place to your child’s wrist, making them a lot harder to lose than bulky smartphones. Phones, as you’ve probably experienced, get dropped behind couches, left in cars, and go on all sorts of other disappearing adventures.
Fewer features and fewer distractions
The best smartwatches — like the Bark Watch for kids — have only a few key functions, making them safer and less addictive. All a smartwatch really needs is the ability to text, call, and take photos. Not having games, web browsers, or social media helps protect your child from seeing it as a toy and not a tool for communication.
Delays the smartphone decision a little while longer
Your child has their entire adult life to use a smartphone, so try not to rush the decision before you have to. Smartwatches are a great choice because they enable you to stay in touch with your kid and track their location, which is all you really need for younger kids. It’s also hard to move backward to a smartwatch if you start out with a smartphone, so keep that in mind. The longer you can put off the phone decision the better off your child will be.
Whenever You’re Ready, Consider the Bark Watch
Giving your child their first smart device can be a big step, but the Bark Watch makes it a little easier for families. It helps give kids a little more independence when they’re ready, and at the same time it gives parents peace of mind with monitoring, location tracking, and parental controls. The Bark Watch is just $129, plus $15/month for service. Order yours today on our website or via Amazon.
And if you decide that a smartphone may be a better option, don’t forget to check out the Bark Phone — a groundbreaking device that’s completely customizable for families and offers unparalleled safety for kids.
Read more
Bark helps families manage and protect their children’s digital lives.
