In 2025, smartwatches designed for children are not just about telling time—they offer a range of features that focus on security, connectivity, and entertainment. As technology evolves, parents are increasingly interested in gadgets that keep their children safe while providing fun and engaging experiences. This shift has seen an uptick in the production of smartwatches that cater specifically to younger users. Here’s a look at the top smartwatches for kids this year.
Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) and Samsung Galaxy Watch 7
The Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen) is a versatile option that, though not exclusively for kids, can be tailored to suit them through Apple’s Family Setup service. This enables parents to manage app access, track location, and control who their children communicate with. The integration with Apple’s Find My app ensures real-time location tracking, a crucial safety feature for parents. Additionally, the watch includes a Schooltime mode designed to limit distractions during school hours, making it easier for children to focus on their studies.
Similarly, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7, while not exclusively a children’s smartwatch, includes a kid mode accessible via the Google Family Link app. It offers GPS tracking, limited app access, and School Time mode to restrict usage during class. The watch also boasts an emergency SOS feature, enabling children to send alerts to predefined contacts in case of an emergency. Both watches come with a premium price tag but offer comprehensive features that provide both connectivity and security, making them a worthwhile investment for families already within these ecosystems.
Fitbit Ace LTE
The Fitbit Ace LTE stands out for being specifically designed for children. Released in 2024, it boasts features such as activity tracking, location sharing, and LTE for calls and messaging, with additional capabilities unlocked via a subscription. This subscription, known as the Ace Pass, enhances connectivity by enabling children to communicate with a select group of contacts while keeping parents in control through the Fitbit Ace app.
Despite its focus on the child’s safety and activity, the Fitbit Ace LTE restricts third-party app downloads, relying instead on built-in games for entertainment. Its Call for Help feature enhances security by allowing children to contact emergency contacts in critical situations. Parents can also manage school hours, ensuring that the device’s features do not interfere with learning time. This targeted approach to safety and activity makes the Fitbit Ace LTE a strong contender for families prioritizing these aspects.
Xiaomi Smart Kids Watch and Garmin Bounce
Xiaomi’s Smart Kids Watch is notable for its affordability and essential features such as GPS tracking and two-way calling. The watch supports video calling and voice messages, providing an efficient way to stay connected. Despite relying on Wi-Fi instead of LTE, it delivers reliable performance and essential functions, including fitness tracking and a Do Not Disturb mode. The incorporation of these functionalities ensures that children can stay safe and connected without the need for a more expensive device.
The Garmin Bounce offers an impressive array of features, including LTE connectivity, GPS tracking, and fitness monitoring, making it a top choice for parents focused on safety and health. It includes options for setting step goals, safety boundaries, and Do Not Disturb schedules. The Garmin Jr app allows parents to manage the watch’s functionalities, making it easier to control how the device is used. With a subscription service for LTE features, it delivers expansive connectivity and a battery life that spans up to 50 hours, ensuring that children remain connected and safe for extended periods.
Common Features and Trends
A shared theme across these smartwatches is the emphasis on safety, with all models offering GPS tracking to allow real-time location monitoring. Emergency features like SOS buttons and limited contact lists for quick communication are standard, ensuring that children can reach out for help when needed. This focus on safety reflects the primary concern of parents when choosing a device for their children.
School-specific features are also common, with modes such as Schooltime or Do Not Disturb to prevent distractions during school hours. These settings help maintain a balance between functionality and focus, allowing children to benefit from the watch’s features without compromising their education. Such modes are valuable for parents who wish to ensure their children can concentrate during critical times such as classes and homework.
Encouraging Physical Activity
Incorporating fitness tracking is another prevalent feature, encouraging children to adopt healthy lifestyles. These watches track activities like walking, running, and cycling, often integrating reward systems or games to motivate regular exercise. This focus on fitness ensures that children can enjoy an active lifestyle while keeping parents informed about their physical activity levels.
Parental control is a crucial aspect, allowing parents to manage the smartwatch’s features and settings. Whether through built-in modes, app management, or subscription services, parents have multiple tools to ensure their children’s safety and appropriate usage of the device. These controls are designed to empower parents while allowing children to enjoy the benefits of modern technology in a controlled and safe environment.
Connectivity and Subscriptions
In 2025, smartwatches designed for children go beyond just showing the time—they come packed with numerous features emphasizing security, connectivity, and entertainment. As technology continues to progress, parents are showing a growing interest in devices that ensure their children’s safety while also delivering fun and engaging experiences. This growing demand has led to an increase in the production of smartwatches tailored specifically for younger users. Today’s smartwatches for kids are equipped with GPS tracking, two-way communication, and various educational applications that make learning enjoyable. They also offer interactive games that hold kids’ attention. Moreover, these smartwatches promote physical activity through built-in fitness trackers, encouraging children to stay active. Whether it’s staying in touch with family or providing a sense of security, these smartwatches are proving to be indispensable. Here’s an overview of the top smartwatches for kids this year.
