Kids Smartwatch Safety : What Experts Say About Keeping Children Safe

Smartwatches for kids have become increasingly popular in Singapore. From Primary One students taking their first steps to independence, to upper primary kids navigating tuition centres and school buses, these gadgets promise safety, connection, and even a bit of fun. But with all these features comes a big concern : kids smartwatch safety

As a parent, it's natural to ask, are kids smartwatches really safe? What about GPS tracking, data privacy, or screen time addiction? We spoke with educators, cybersecurity experts, and parents to understand the risks and the right ways to manage them.

Why Parents Are Choosing Smartwatches for Their Kids

Kids smartwatches today are more than digital toys. They come with useful features like real-time GPS tracking, voice and video calls, SOS buttons, and activity tracking. These watches give parents a direct line to their kids, without handing over a full smartphone.

But as the technology evolves, so do questions around kids smartwatch safety. Can someone else track my child’s location? Are the calls encrypted? Are children too young to handle these devices responsibly?

Let’s break down the key concerns and what the experts have to say.

✅GPS Tracking and Location Sharing

The Benefit:

GPS is one of the most valued features of kids smartwatches. It allows parents to track their child’s location through a secure app. This is especially helpful in Singapore, where children may commute via MRT, buses, or walk to nearby enrichment classes.

The Concern:

Can GPS tracking be misused? What if the data falls into the wrong hands?

What Experts Say:

Cybersecurity experts stress that kids smartwatch safety depends heavily on secure app design. Make sure the smartwatch uses encrypted communication and offers parental access controls. Always choose reputable brands like myFirst, which prioritise secure cloud storage and user data protection.

Set up geofencing. This lets you define safe zones like home or school, and receive alerts if your child exits these zones.

✅Privacy and Data Protection

The Benefit:

Smartwatches allow limited communication and tracking without exposing kids to the risks of social media or the internet.

The Concern:

Some lower-quality devices may collect data without strong privacy settings. Who’s managing the data, and where is it stored?

What Experts Say:

According to digital privacy consultants, kids smartwatch safety begins with choosing trusted brands that comply with global data protection standards. In Singapore, watches that follow GDPR principles are generally safer.

Before purchase, always check if:

• The data is encrypted
• The app is password protected
• You can control who your child contacts
• The manufacturer has a transparent privacy policy

Brands like myFirst have a strong reputation for safety-focused designs tailored to children.

✅Exposure to Inappropriate Content

The Benefit:

Most kids smartwatches do not allow internet browsing or social media apps 

The Concern:

Are games or chat functions open to strangers? Is screen time becoming a problem?

What Experts Say:

Educators and psychologists agree that kids smartwatch safety improves when there are limits in place. Look for features like:

• Contact whitelisting (only approved numbers can message or call)
• Class mode (disables usage during school hours)
• No app store or web browser access

Stick to watches that promote communication with family only. Many parents in Singapore prefer devices with no open chat or gaming platforms to minimise distractions and dangers.

✅Physical Safety and Durability

The Benefit:

A smartwatch is worn on the wrist, reducing the risk of loss compared to phones. Most are water-resistant and built for active kids.

The Concern:

Could the watch get stolen or broken easily?

What Experts Say:

For practical kids smartwatch safety, go for models with durable straps, tamper-resistant designs, and water resistance ratings like IPX7 or higher. Avoid flashy designs that may draw unnecessary attention in public places.

Educators recommend teaching children simple habits like not showing off their device and removing it during rough physical activities.

✅Mental and Social Wellbeing

The Benefit:

Smartwatches can teach responsibility, help manage time, and encourage healthy routines through activity tracking.

The Concern:

Will kids become overly reliant on technology or develop habits of distraction?

What Experts Say:

Child psychologists say moderation is key. Use the smartwatch as a communication and safety tool not as entertainment. Set daily usage limits, explain when and how to use it, and involve your child in creating healthy device rules.

When managed well, kids smartwatch safety contributes to digital literacy and builds confidence in children learning to navigate the world independently.

How to Ensure Kids Smartwatch Safety at Home

Want to maximise your child’s safety while using a smartwatch? Follow these simple tips:

• Choose a trusted brand: Go for child-specific smartwatches from brands like myFirst that have safety-first features.

• Secure the app: Set strong passwords and enable parental controls.

• Review data regularly: Check your child’s location history, call logs, and settings weekly.

• Educate your child: Teach them not to share their watch or talk to strangers via the device.

• Set usage rules: Use class mode, limit non-essential calls, and reinforce respectful device use.

Safe and Trusted Smartwatch Recommendations

myFirst Fone S3

A strong choice for ages 6 to 12, the myFirst Fone S3 includes:

• GPS tracking with geofencing
• SOS emergency call
• Video and voice chat (only with approved contacts)
• Class mode and app control 
• Water resistant build

myFirst Fone R2

For slightly older kids, the myFirst Fone R2 offers:

• Heart rate monitoring
• Sleek round display
• Secure cloud tracking
• Longer battery life
• Full parental control app

Both models are built around kids smartwatch safety and loved by parents across Singapore.

Looking for a secure, kid-friendly smartwatch in Singapore? Check out myFirst’s range of smartwatches built with safety, education, and connectivity in mind.

Make your child’s safety smarter. Choose a kids smartwatch that gives you control and gives them confidence🎉