Imagine this: your child is at a friend’s house, and you just want to check in, or maybe they need to tell you something important. But they don’t have a phone. How do you connect? This is a common worry for parents today. Finding a safe and easy way for your kids to reach you, and for you to reach them, feels like a big puzzle.
Choosing a watch that can call and text for kids can be tricky. There are so many choices out there! You want something that’s not too complicated for your child to use, but also gives you peace of mind. You might worry about safety features, battery life, or even if your child will actually wear it! It’s a lot to think about.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help! By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes a great kid’s calling and texting watch. We’ll break down the important features, explain what to look for, and even give you some tips to make your decision easier. Get ready to find the perfect device that keeps your family connected and secure.
Our Top 5 Watch For Kids To Call And Text Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Watch For Kids To Call And Text Detailed Reviews
1. 4G Kids Smart Watch with GPS Tracker Video Voice Calling Text Chat SOS Call
Rating: 9.4/10
Introducing the 4G Kids Smart Watch in a fun pink color, designed for children aged 5-12. This watch is packed with features to keep kids safe, connected, and entertained, all managed easily by parents through a special app.
What We Like:
- Accurate GPS and LBS tracking keeps parents informed about their child’s location.
- Clear video and voice calls, plus text messaging, let kids stay in touch with approved contacts.
- The SOS button provides quick emergency help by calling preset numbers and sending the child’s location.
- It’s durable and waterproof, standing up to active play.
- Kids will love the camera, games, pedometer, and customizable wallpapers.
- The battery lasts a good amount of time, between 3-5 days.
- School Mode keeps distractions away during class.
What Could Be Improved:
- A Nano SIM card (Speedtalk recommended) is required and not included.
- The watch only works in North America.
- It’s not suitable for swimming or showering.
This pink smartwatch offers a great balance of safety, communication, and fun for young adventurers. It’s a fantastic gift idea for birthdays or holidays.
2. JrTrack 5 Kids Smart Watch by Cosmo
Rating: 9.1/10
The JrTrack 5 Kids Smart Watch by Cosmo is a top-rated, kid-safe phone and GPS tracker designed for children ages 6 and up. It offers a secure way for kids to connect with family while giving parents peace of mind through advanced safety features and robust parental controls.
What We Like:
- Award-winning safety and connection: It’s the best kid-safe phone watch with real calling and texting to parent-approved contacts only.
- Amazing real-time GPS: New HaloGPS technology provides pinpoint accuracy and the fastest, most accurate location tracking.
- Secure calling & messaging: Family-safe calling across the US, Canada, and Mexico. True Texting lets kids securely share texts, pictures, audio, and short videos with approved contacts.
- Parent-approved contacts only: No spam calls or internet access. Parents can view and monitor all messages.
- Unlimited talk, text, and data: Cosmo Mobile Family-Safe service is easy to activate with affordable prepaid plans starting at $9.99/month (watch is not compatible with other carriers).
- Groundbreaking parental controls: Parents can choose kid-safe apps, manage access, set time limits, and more.
- Market-leading safety features: Includes SOS alerts, GPS SafeZone notifications, and emergency calling options.
- Distraction-free Focus Mode: Parents can lock the device during school or other times to keep kids focused.
- Optional apps & music: Parents can enable Spotify and Spotify Kids for age-appropriate music and podcasts (requires separate Spotify Family subscription).
- All the essentials: Includes alarms, reminders, a step counter, calculator, timer, stopwatch, and a “find my watch” feature.
What Could Be Improved:
- The JrTrack 5 is not compatible with other carriers, so you must use Cosmo Mobile.
This watch offers a balanced approach to independence and safety for kids. It’s a smart choice for families looking for a reliable and secure communication device for their children.
3. tykjszgs Waterproof Kids Smart Watch LBS Tracker – Boys Girls for 3-12 Year Old with SOS Camera Alarm Call Camera Pedometer 12 Time Format 1.44” Touch Screen SOS Electronic Toy Birthday Gifts (Blue)
Rating: 9.5/10
The tykjszgs Waterproof Kids Smart Watch LBS Tracker in vibrant blue is a fantastic gadget for kids aged 3-12. It’s packed with features that give parents peace of mind and kids a fun way to stay connected. This watch isn’t just a toy; it’s a smart device designed for safety and communication.
What We Like:
- It supports two-way calls, so your child can easily reach you and vice versa.
- The SOS emergency call feature is a lifesaver. With a press, it calls up to three preset numbers until someone answers.
- GPS and LBS tracking lets you see your child’s real-time location through the “Setracker 2” app.
- The camera lets kids take fun selfies and pictures.
- Class Mode is a great idea! It stops distractions during school hours, but the SOS still works.
- Parents can set up safe zones, and you’ll get an alert if your child wanders too far.
- It includes fun extras like a pedometer to track steps and a math game.
- The watch is waterproof, so splashes and rain won’t be a problem.
What Could Be Improved:
- The watch only supports 2G data traffic, which might limit its functionality in areas with poor 2G signal.
- It contains small parts and is not suitable for children under 3 years old due to choking hazards.
This tykjszgs smartwatch offers a great balance of safety features for parents and engaging functions for kids. It’s a thoughtful gift that keeps your child connected and secure.
4. 4G Kids Smart Watch with GPS Tracker Video Voice Calling Text Chat SOS Call
Rating: 9.0/10
The 4G Kids Smart Watch in vibrant blue is packed with features designed for kids aged 5-12. It offers a safe way for children to stay connected and for parents to keep an eye on them. From video calls to GPS tracking, this watch aims to provide peace of mind and fun for its young wearers.
What We Like:
- Precise GPS and LBS tracking keeps parents informed about their child’s location with a ±5m accuracy.
- Clear video and voice calling, plus text messaging, allow easy communication with approved contacts.
- The one-key SOS button instantly alerts guardians and sends the child’s location in emergencies.
- It’s durable and waterproof, ready for active play, though swimming and showering should be avoided.
- The 1.4-inch HD camera lets kids capture photos, and built-in games and a pedometer add entertainment.
- School mode disables distractions during class time, and the 650mAh battery lasts 3-5 days.
- It’s made with hypoallergenic silicone and a shatter-resistant screen, meeting child safety standards.
What Could Be Improved:
- A Speedtalk Nano SIM card is required and not included in the package.
- The watch is only compatible for use in North America.
- While waterproof, it’s not recommended for swimming or showering.
This smartwatch offers a solid blend of safety and fun for younger children. It’s a great gift idea for birthdays or holidays, providing independence for kids and reassurance for parents.
5. OKYUK 4G Kids Watch with SIM Card
Rating: 9.0/10
Introducing the OKYUK 4G Kids Watch, a fantastic all-in-one gadget designed to keep your child connected, entertained, and safe. This black smartwatch is packed with features that make it a great alternative to a smartphone for younger kids, offering a blend of fun and essential safety tools.
What We Like:
- Packed with Features: This watch isn’t just for telling time. It includes an app store, sports modes, a camera with fun cartoon headwear options, a voice recorder, and useful tools like an alarm clock, calendar, and calculator. It even has face recognition!
- Safety First: Parents can relax knowing their child is safe. The watch allows for two-way calling, so you can easily chat. Plus, the SOS emergency button is a lifesaver – a simple three-second press calls a pre-set emergency contact.
- Fun and Educational Games: With 47 exciting games, including picture-to-word learning and math challenges, this watch keeps kids entertained and sharpens their thinking skills. The games offer a unique and engaging experience.
- Easy to Use with Included SIM: Setting up is a breeze! The watch comes with a 4G SIM card, so you don’t have to search for one. Just activate it, and your child can start calling. The battery lasts for hours of gameplay and days of regular use.
- Great Gift Idea: The 1.83-inch HD touch screen is perfect for little hands. It comes with a cool braided strap, a necklace lanyard, and a protective silicone case, making it an ideal birthday or Christmas gift for kids aged 4 to 12.
What Could Be Improved:
- Battery Life for Heavy Gaming: While it has good standby time, the 6-hour game time might be a bit short for very active gamers.
- Age Range Specificity: The description mentions ages 3-15, but the gift suggestion focuses on 4-12. Clarifying the ideal age range for specific features could be helpful.
This OKYUK 4G Kids Watch is a well-rounded device that offers a secure and engaging experience for children. It’s a smart choice for parents looking for a fun and functional communication tool for their kids.
Choosing the Best Kid-Friendly Smartwatch for Calls & Texts
Looking for a way to stay connected with your child without giving them a full-blown smartphone? A kids’ watch that can make calls and send texts is a fantastic solution! These smartwatches offer a balance of independence for your child and peace of mind for you. Let’s dive into what makes a great watch for your little one.
Key Features to Look For
1. Two-Way Calling
This is the most important feature. You want a watch that lets your child call pre-approved contacts and receive calls from them. Some watches allow only calling from a parent-set list, which is a great safety feature.
2. Text Messaging
Similar to calling, look for watches that support text messages. Many offer pre-set messages (like “I’m on my way” or “I’m okay”) and sometimes allow for simple voice-to-text messages. Full keyboard texting can be tricky for little fingers.
3. GPS Tracking
Peace of mind comes with knowing where your child is. A built-in GPS tracker lets you see your child’s location on a map through a companion app on your smartphone. Some even offer geofencing, which alerts you if your child leaves a designated safe area.
4. SOS Button
An emergency button is a must-have. When pressed, it immediately calls or texts a pre-set emergency contact. This is crucial for quick help if your child needs it.
5. Durability and Water Resistance
Kids play hard! The watch needs to be tough enough for everyday adventures. Look for watches made from strong materials and that have some level of water resistance, like being splash-proof or able to withstand light rain.
6. Battery Life
You don’t want a watch that dies halfway through the day. Check reviews for how long the battery typically lasts on a single charge. A full day of use is generally a good benchmark.
7. Parental Controls and Companion App
A good smartwatch comes with a user-friendly app for parents. This app is where you manage contacts, set safe zones, view location history, and control other watch settings. Easy navigation in the app is key.
Important Materials
The materials used affect the watch’s comfort, durability, and safety. Look for:
- Silicone or Rubber Straps: These are flexible, comfortable for sensitive skin, and easy to clean.
- Durable Plastics: For the watch casing, sturdy plastics are common and can withstand bumps.
- Scratch-Resistant Screens: A screen that resists scratches will keep the watch looking good longer.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Clear Audio: Good sound quality for calls makes communication much easier.
- Intuitive Interface: Simple buttons and a straightforward menu make it easy for kids to use.
- Reliable GPS Signal: Accurate and consistent location tracking is essential.
- Secure App: A well-designed and secure parent app ensures your data and your child’s data are protected.
Reducing Quality:
- Poor Battery Life: A watch that needs constant charging is frustrating.
- Unreliable Connectivity: Dropped calls or texts are a sign of poor performance.
- Complicated Setup: If the watch is hard to set up or use, it won’t get used.
- Lack of Updates: Some watches may not receive software updates, which can lead to security issues or missing features over time.
User Experience and Use Cases
These watches are perfect for giving your child a sense of independence while keeping them connected. Imagine your child being able to call you after school to say they’re ready for pickup, or sending you a quick “love you!” text. They’re great for:
- Younger children who aren’t ready for a smartphone.
- Kids who walk or bike to school.
- Families who want a simple way to stay in touch during the day.
- Giving parents peace of mind during playtime at the park or visiting friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can my child call anyone with this watch?
A: Most watches only allow calling pre-approved contacts that you set up through the parent app. This is a great safety feature.
Q: Do I need a separate phone plan for the watch?
A: Yes, usually you do. The watch needs a SIM card and a data plan to make calls and send texts. Some companies offer special plans for kids’ smartwatches.
Q: How do I set up the contacts for my child’s watch?
A: You’ll use a special app on your smartphone. This app lets you add and manage who your child can call and who can call them.
Q: Can my child text back and forth with friends?
A: Some watches allow for basic text replies or pre-set messages. Full keyboard texting is less common and can be hard for kids.
Q: Is the GPS tracking always on?
A: You can usually set how often the GPS updates. It’s good to have it update regularly for safety, but updating too often can use up battery faster.
Q: What if my child loses the watch?
A: The GPS tracking feature can help you locate the watch. It’s also a good idea to label the watch with your contact information.
Q: Are these watches difficult for kids to learn how to use?
A: Most are designed to be very simple. They usually have a few buttons and a clear screen that kids can easily navigate.
Q: Can my child play games on these watches?
A: Some watches have very basic games, but the main focus is on communication and safety features. They are not designed to be entertainment devices like a tablet.
Q: What happens if the watch gets wet?
A: Many are water-resistant, meaning they can handle splashes or rain. However, they are usually not meant for swimming or submersion in water.
Q: How long does the battery usually last?
A: Battery life varies by model, but many can last a full day on a single charge with regular use. It’s a good idea to charge it every night.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.