The percentage of kids who have a smartphone grows by the year, and this trend is seemingly only going in one direction. Kids start begging for their own phone as soon as they can talk (or at least it probably feels that way to parents who are always handing their phone over to keep a kid busy).
In some ways, your child having a phone on them at all times can alleviate some serious worries about location and communication, but worries about internet safety, cyberbullying, and screen time might outnumber the reasons for a young child to have a phone of their own (even though parental control software exists for this exact purpose). Read more…
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BEST FOR HEALTHY HABITS
Garmin Vivofit Jr. 2
Kids will actually want to assume some responsibility with this coin-based, Disney-themed reward system.
- GPS: No
- Battery life: Non-rechargeable, but up to one year
- Sleep tracking: Yes
- Water resistance: Waterproof up to 164 feet
- Communication features: None
£79.99 from Amazon
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BEST FOR GAMES
VTech KidiZoom DX2
The kid-proof watch to choose if your goal is fun and learning rather than daily routines and keeping in touch.
- GPS: No
- Battery life: Up to two weeks
- Sleep tracking: No
- Water resistance: Splash-proof, but shouldn’t be submerged
- Communication features: None
£49.97 from Amazon
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BEST FOR SPORTS
Fitbit Ace 2
More independent than most kid watches but more fun than an adult Fitbit, the Ace 2 is a cool companion for kids who have a smartphone.
- GPS: No
- Battery life: Up to five days
- Sleep tracking: Yes
- Water resistance: Waterproof up to 164 feet
- Communication features: Call and text notifications
£69.99 from Amazon
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BEST FOR OLDER KIDS
Fitbit Ace
This stripped-back fitness tracker is a great way to encourage and motivate kids to get moving.
- GPS: No
- Battery life: Up to five days
- Sleep tracking: Yes
- Water resistance: Yes
- Communication features: None
£75.31 from Amazon
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BEST FOR APPS
Kurio V 2.0
Stay connected with this smartwatch that comes pre-loaded with 20 apps.
- GPS: No
- Battery life: Up to three days
- Sleep tracking: No
- Water resistance: No
- Communication features: Messaging
£59.99 from Amazon
