Smartwatches for Kids: Parents’ Solution to Screen-Time Concerns Amid Global Phone Pushback

Kids’ Smartwatches: A Growing Trend in 2024 for Tech-Conscious Parents

By [Your Name/Archyde Staff] | March 22, 2025

As concerns about screen time and social mediaS impact on children rise, more parents are turning to smartwatches as a safer alternative to smartphones.

The rise of the Kids’ Smartwatch

In a world increasingly dominated by smartphones, a counter-trend is emerging: the rise of the kids’ smartwatch. Parents, wary of the potential pitfalls of unrestricted access to the internet and social media for their young children, are exploring alternative ways to stay connected. These devices offer a limited, controlled habitat for interaction and safety features, providing a sense of security for parents and a degree of independence for children.

The trend gained notable traction in 2024. While the overall smartwatch market experienced a dip, the children’s segment thrived.International Data Corporation (IDC) reported that the kids’ smartwatch segment was the only one that grew in 2024. Market research firm canalys reported that over 20 million kids’ smartwatches were shipped globally in 2024, marking an increase of up to 9% from 2023.

Metric	2023	2024	Change
Global Kids’ Smartwatch Shipments	~18.3 million	~20 million	Up 9%
Overall Global Smartwatch Shipment	162.1 million	154 million	Down 5%

This growth highlights a shift in parental priorities. Instead of promptly handing over a smartphone, parents are opting for a device that allows them to maintain contact and track their child’s location without exposing them to the broader digital world.

Parental Concerns Driving the Trend

the growing popularity of kids’ smartwatches is directly linked to increasing concerns about the impact of smartphones and social media on young people’s mental health and well-being. The American Academy of Pediatrics, for example, recommends limiting screen time for children and emphasizes the importance of monitoring content.

Parents are grappling with the challenges of managing their children’s screen time and exposure to perhaps harmful content. This concern is reflected in the words of Ms.Shirley ng, who chose a smartwatch for her younger daughter, Alysandra, in 2024:

When we gave Alysandra a smartwatch, of course she asked how come her sister could get a phone at her age. But we want to keep her screen time under control. There are fewer addictive activities on a smartwatch.
Ms.Shirley Ng, concerned parent

Ms. Ng’s sentiment is echoed by many parents across the U.S. They seek to delay the introduction of smartphones, fearing addiction and exposure to inappropriate content. The limited functionality of smartwatches offers a compromise, providing a safe and controlled environment for children to connect with their parents.

Another parent, Ms. Rachael Goh, who purchased a smartwatch for her seven-year-old daughter in 2023, shares a similar perspective:

Ming Xuan is already asking for a phone but I tell her it won’t be so soon. Hopefully, I can give her a phone as late as possible. It’s very hard for kids to have self-control.
Ms. Rachael Goh,concerned parent

These testimonials highlight a growing awareness among parents about the potential negative effects of early smartphone use and a desire to protect their children from these risks.

Features and Functionality: What Kids’ Smartwatches Offer

Kids’ smartwatches are designed with safety and parental control in mind. They typically offer a range of features, including:

• GPS Tracking: Allows parents to monitor their child’s location in real-time. This feature is particularly useful for parents of children who walk to school or participate in after-school activities.
• Restricted Communication: Limits calls and texts to a pre-approved list of contacts.This prevents children from communicating with strangers or being exposed to unwanted messages.
• SOS Function: Enables children to quickly contact their parents or emergency services in case of an emergency.
• Geofencing: Allows parents to set up virtual boundaries and receive notifications when their child enters or leaves a designated area.
• Limited App Access: Restricts access to apps, preventing children from downloading games or social media platforms without parental consent.

These features provide parents with a sense of security and control, allowing them to stay connected with their children while minimizing the risks associated with smartphone use.

Market Landscape: Key Players and Pricing

Several companies have entered the kids’ smartwatch market, offering a variety of devices with different features and price points.Some of the popular brands include Garmin,Xiaomi,and myFirst.

These smartwatches are generally priced between $80 and $270, making them a more affordable option then smartphones. They are available at major retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart, as well as online marketplaces such as Amazon.

MyFirst, a company founded in 2017, has seen significant growth in recent years, particularly in the U.S. market. G-Jay Yong, myFirst chief executive and founder, reported that the company’s growth is largely due to its expansion from a dozen to 56 countries, especially the US market, where its smartwatches are sold in some 800 Walmart Group outlets. In 2024,they reported sales of $20 million,with revenue doubling each year as 2022.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While kids’ smartwatches offer numerous benefits, it’s crucial to consider potential drawbacks.Mrs. Esther Foong-Tan, the co-founder of SGFamilies, a movement to promote healthy parenting, cautions that smartwatches can be distracting:

The smartwatch is handy if used solely like a mobile phone to contact the child as it gives parents a sense of security, but they can be distracting if notifications are constantly pinging away.
Mrs.Esther Foong-Tan, co-founder of SGFamilies

it is crucial for parents to set clear guidelines for smartwatch use and to ensure that the device does not become a source of distraction or anxiety for their children. Just like with any technology, moderation and open communication are key.

Furthermore, the GPS tracking function raises privacy concerns. Parents should be transparent with their children about how the tracking feature works and why it is indeed being used. It is also important to choose a reputable brand that prioritizes data security and privacy.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Kids’ Smartwatches

The kids’ smartwatch market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years as parents become increasingly aware of the benefits and as technology continues to evolve. Future smartwatches may incorporate more advanced features, such as health monitoring, educational apps, and enhanced communication capabilities.

However, it is important to remember that technology is only one tool in the parenting toolbox. Open communication, clear boundaries, and a focus on healthy habits are essential for raising well-adjusted children in the digital age. The best approach involves a balanced perspective: embracing technology’s benefits while actively mitigating its potential risks.

What are the potential drawbacks parents should be aware of when considering a smartwatch for thier child?

Interview: Kids’ Smartwatches – The Growing Trend & Parental Concerns

By archyde Staff | March 22,2025

Introduction: Kids’ Smartwatches in the Spotlight

Welcome,viewers,too Archyde News. Today, we’re diving deep into the booming world of kids’ smartwatches. Joining us is Dr. Anya sharma, a child developmental psychologist and expert in the intersection of technology and child growth. Dr. Sharma, welcome!

Thank you for having me.I’m excited to discuss this captivating trend.

The Rise of Kids’ Smartwatches: A Shift in Parental Priorities

Dr. Sharma, the data indicates a significant rise in kids’ smartwatch adoption in 2024. What factors are driving this trend, particularly when the overall smartwatch market saw a dip?

Several factors are at play. Parents are increasingly concerned about their children’s safety and well-being in the digital age.They are cautious about unrestricted access to smartphones. Smartwatches offer a compromise: They provide interaction and tracking capabilities without exposing children to the full range of potential online dangers and the constant distractions. The features like GPS tracking, restricted communication, and geofencing resonate with this concern.

Parental Concerns: Safety and Well-being as Key Drivers

Let’s delve into parental concerns.What specific anxieties are driving parents towards these devices instead of, or at least before, smartphones?

Concerns primarily revolve around screen time management, exposure to inappropriate content, and the potential for social media addiction. Parents wont to delay the introduction of smartphones for as long as possible, fearing the negative impacts on their children’s mental health and well-being. Smartwatches offer a more controlled and curated digital habitat for children.

Kids’ Smartwatch features and functionality

What are the key features that set kids’ smartwatches apart and make them appealing to parents?

The core features are focused on safety and parental control. These include GPS tracking for location monitoring, restricted communication to a pre-approved contact list, an SOS function for emergencies, geofencing to create virtual boundaries, and limited app access. Essentially, they offer a sense of security and control that a smartphone can’t always provide.

The Market landscape: Key Players and affordability

The market isn’t just about safety, it’s about the businesses. Are there notable brands leading the charge, and how do the prices compare to smartphones?

Yes, several brands are making waves, like Garmin, Xiaomi, and myFirst, which has experienced considerable expansion. Kids’ smartwatches are generally more affordable compared to smartphones, the price point ranges from $80 to $270. This affordability makes them accessible to a wider range of parents.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

What potential drawbacks should parents be aware of? Are there any downsides to consider before purchasing?

While offering benefits, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks. Smartwatches can certainly be distracting if not managed well. It’s also important to be transparent with children about GPS tracking and address their privacy concerns. Moderation, open communication, and clear usage guidelines are critically important.

The Future of Kids’ Smartwatches: What’s On The Horizon?

Looking ahead, what do you foresee for the kids’ smartwatch market, and what advancements might we expect?

The market is projected to keep growing. We may see advanced features like health monitoring, more educational apps, and enhanced communication capabilities. However, technology should be one piece of the puzzle. We still recognize the key role of parents in open communication and setting clear boundaries.

That’s a great point. If you, our viewers, had to choose between limiting your child’s smartwatch use and giving them free access to their phone to teach them to be responsible, which would you choose, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Dr. Sharma, thank you so much for your insights.

my pleasure.