More and more parents and schools are asking themselves: is a smartphone at a young age really a good idea? The rise of social media, increasing screen time and concerns about mental health are leading to a growing awareness: perhaps it is better not to give children under 14 a smartphone just yet.
But how can I stay in touch with my child without a mobile phone? And how do you, as a parent, make sure your child stays reachable without a smartphone, while at the same time ensuring a sense of safety without one being needed?
In this article we present the best alternatives to a mobile phone. Spoiler: the GPS watch with calling function turns out to be the perfect in-between solution for many families.
The concerns about smartphone use among young children are not unfounded. Parents, psychologists and teachers point to the risks of early use:
At the same time, parents want to be able to reach their child, for example when it travels to school alone or plays outside. That is why demand is growing for a safe alternative to the smartphone that keeps the child reachable, without the downsides of a smartphone.
A GPS watch for children is specially designed for children and offers safety, reachability and peace of mind, without distraction from apps or the internet.
Advantages:
The best of both worlds: your child is reachable, but does not have a smartphone in hand.
Discover the best alternative for your child
These phones can usually only call and send texts. No internet, no distraction.
Advantages: affordable, simple, the child can make calls
Disadvantages: less appealing for children, no location function
Some parents choose to give an old smartphone, but limit it to calling and texting.
Advantages: a device familiar to the child
Disadvantages: risk that apps still get installed or Wi-Fi is used
These small tags are handy for tracking the child’s location, for example in a backpack.
Advantages: no screen, location only
Disadvantages: you cannot call or make direct contact
Ideal for playing outdoors or over short distances, for example in the neighbourhood.
Advantages: no internet, no contract
Disadvantages: limited range, no location function
The GPS watch for children with calling function is becoming increasingly popular among parents of children between 5 and 12 years old. And that is no surprise:
Many models are also waterproof, robustly built and easy to use. Typical features include:
An ideal smartphone alternative device for children that ensures safety and reachability.
The discussion about smartphones for children under 14 is more relevant than ever. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives that allow safety and reachability – without the downsides of a smartphone.
The GPS watch with calling function proves to be the solution for many parents. Not only safe and reliable, but also child-friendly, fun to use and completely without access to social media.
For parents wondering how to stay in touch with their child without using a mobile phone, this is a reassuring answer. A child without a smartphone can still be easily reachable thanks to this clever technology.
Curious which model suits your child best? Take a look at our range here and find out how you stay connected worry-free – completely without a smartphone.
