Whether your child is walking to school, riding their bike to a friend’s house, or just out of your sight for a few minutes, you know the feeling: that little bit of worry that never quite goes away. As parents, we cannot be everywhere at once, but today’s GPS technology lets us stay connected in ways that were unthinkable even a decade ago.
At BrickHouse Security, we have been developing and testing GPS trackers for nearly 20 years. I have personally worked with families who needed better tools to keep their kids safe, and I have used them with my own children, too. In this post, I will walk you through everything you need to know about GPS trackers for kids, from how they work to which features matter most.
Why Use A GPS Tracker For Kids?
It is not about surveillance. It is about peace of mind, especially when your child starts gaining more independence.
Parents turn to GPS trackers for a range of smart, safety-first reasons:
1. Daily Travel To And From School
Many kids start walking or biking to school on their own as early as 3rd or 4th grade. A GPS tracker gives you peace of mind knowing:
- When they arrive at school
- Whether they are sticking to their expected route
- If they have made it home safely
You can even get instant alerts if they stop somewhere unexpected.
2. Shared Custody And Co-Parenting
When kids split time between households, GPS tracking can help avoid stress and miscommunication. Both parents can receive location updates, reducing the need for constant check-ins.
It also gives kids the ability to feel more secure during transitions between homes.
3. Busy Public Places
Theme parks, festivals, airports, shopping malls, these places can get crowded fast. A small GPS tracker clipped to a backpack or worn as a watch can:
- Help you locate your child instantly if you get separated
- Reduce panic in chaotic environments
- Cut search time down to minutes instead of hours
4. Emergency Situations
Many GPS trackers for kids include an SOS button that your child can press in an emergency. Whether they feel unsafe, are lost, or need help quickly, you will get:
- A real-time alert
- Their exact location
- A faster chance to respond and help
What Features To Look For In A GPS Tracker For Kids
Not all trackers are created equal. As a parent and a tech CEO, here is my list of the must-have features you should look for when shopping for a child-safe GPS tracker.
1. Real-Time Location Tracking
This is the heart of a good GPS tracker.
- Look for trackers that provide live updates every 10 to 60 seconds
- Some lower-cost models may update every few minutes, this is okay for general tracking, but not ideal in emergencies
- Real-time GPS keeps you in the loop minute by minute
2. Geo-Fencing (Safe Zones)
Geo-fencing allows you to create virtual boundaries around important places like:
- Home
- School
- A grandparent’s house
- After-school activities
If your child enters or leaves one of these areas, you will get a text or app notification. It is a powerful tool for safety and for respecting your child’s independence while staying informed.
3. SOS Or Panic Button
This is one of my top priorities as a parent.
The SOS button lets your child send you an instant alert in an emergency. Some devices will even:
- Call a preset number
- Send location coordinates
- Record a short voice message
Make sure your child understands when and how to use this feature—and test it regularly.
4. Long Battery Life
Battery life is key, especially with kids who might forget to charge their devices.
- Look for at least 3-5 days of battery life for regular use
- Some trackers offer power-saving modes that extend battery life to a week or more
- Rechargeable batteries are common; just make charging part of your child’s routine
5. Durable, Kid-Proof Design
Let us be honest, kids drop, splash, and lose things. You will want a tracker that can take a hit and still keep working.
Look for:
- Water-resistant or waterproof design
- Shock resistance
- Secure straps or clip-on cases
Also, check for tamper alerts; some trackers will notify you if they are removed.
6. Two-Way Voice Or Messaging (Optional)
While not essential for everyone, two-way communication can be a helpful feature.
Some GPS devices allow:
- Limited calling (to pre-approved numbers only)
- One-way voice monitoring (you can listen in without calling)
- Text alerts and messages
If your child does not have a smartphone, this can be a helpful middle ground for communication.
Where Should Your Child Carry The GPS Tracker?
The best GPS tracker is the one your child will actually wear or carry every day. Here are a few popular and practical options:
Backpack Or Bag Clip-On
- Easy to attach to zippers or straps
- Less intrusive, especially for older kids
- Can be removed, but often goes unnoticed
Wearable GPS Watch
- Always on your child’s wrist
- Often includes SOS button and voice features
- Great for younger children who might lose a loose device
Pocket-Sized Trackers
- Fits into jacket or pants pockets
- Small and discreet
- Perfect for minimal distraction or visibility
Todd’s Tip: Have your child help pick the tracker. If they like how it looks and understand how it works, they are more likely to use it regularly.
Best GPS Trackers For Kids (That We Recommend)
These are devices I have personally tested or helped develop, and they are trusted by thousands of families.
Spark Nano 7 GPS Tracker
The BrickHouse Security Spark Nano 7 GPS tracker is a great option for children who have disabilities due to its prominent SOS button and call center support. It features geofencing, notifications and alerts, and real time GPS location monitoring. Operating on a 4G network and featuring a monthly subscription makes this device exceptionally reliable. The 24/7 customer service support does not hurt it.
- Real-time GPS tracking via smartphone app
- Optional magnetic case or clip-on accessories
- Geo-fencing, SOS alerts, and detailed location history
- Battery lasts 5–7 days on a single charge
- 4G LTE coverage across North America
Perfect For: Backpack tracking, older children, and families who want accurate location updates without a smartwatch.
GPS SmartSole
Designed for children with autism or special needs who may wander or bolt.
- GPS tracker built discreetly into a shoe insole
- Sends location updates directly to your phone
- Cannot be easily removed or lost
Perfect For: Children with special needs, kids who resist wearing devices, or situations where discreet tracking is needed.
Guardian GPS Watch For Kids
We are in final testing on a new kid-focused smartwatch:
- Two-way voice calling
- Real-time location sharing
- SOS emergency button
- Fun, kid-friendly design
Perfect For: Parents looking for smartphone alternatives for younger kids.
Is It Legal To Track Your Child?
Yes. In the U.S., it is legal for a parent or legal guardian to track their minor child, as long as:
- You are the child’s legal guardian
- The tracker is used on a device or item that you own or control
However, tracking someone else’s child or using a GPS tracker without consent is illegal in most states.
That said, I always recommend having a conversation with your child about GPS tracking. Transparency builds trust, and that is just as important as safety.
How To Talk To Your Child About GPS Tracking
Kids do not like surprises. If you are planning to use a GPS tracker with your child, here is how to keep the conversation positive and productive:
Explain It As A Safety Tool
Use language like:
“This is just a way for us to make sure you’re safe, especially when you’re walking or going out on your own.”
Avoid framing it like punishment or surveillance.
Set Expectations Together
Let your child help:
- Choose safe zones
- Decide when they can check in
- Learn how to use the SOS button
Involving them builds ownership and reduces resistance.
Balance Trust With Responsibility
Remind them:
“This is not about tracking your every move, it is about making sure we are there for you when you need us.”
As they grow, you can ease restrictions and adjust settings together.
Final Thoughts From Todd
As a parent, I know that feeling of “just wanting to be sure.” GPS trackers are not about control, they are about confidence. Confidence that your child made it home. Confidence that they can reach you in an emergency. Confidence that you are doing everything you can to protect them as they grow more independent.
At BrickHouse Security, we are proud to offer reliable, tested, and family-friendly GPS solutions that make it easy for parents to stay connected with their kids, without overstepping boundaries.
If you are ready to explore the GPS tracker for your family and Kids, our team is here to help you find the best fit.
By Todd Morris, Founder & CEO of BrickHouse Security
