Parenting in the modern day requires a significant contribution from technology. In order to ensure the safety of their children, parents will adopt a variety of strategies and make use of a wide range of tools.
One of these tools to keep youngsters safe is the GPS watches that are now available for children.
These watches integrate communication, tracking, and safety functions, giving parents the ability to monitor their children’s locations while still maintaining a connection with their children.
Even while the thought of programming a GPS watch for a child may at first seem to be an insurmountable challenge, if you have the right kind of advice, the process may really be rather simple.
This article will walk you through the process of setting up a GPS watch for your kid, giving you the confidence that your child will not wander off without you knowing where they are at all times.
How to Set up a SIM Card for a Kid’s GPS Watch?
A child’s GPS watch won’t work properly without a SIM card setup first. If you want to use your watch with a cellular data plan, you’ll need to buy a SIM card that is compatible with your watch and then install it into the watch according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
After inserting a SIM card, activation often requires contacting the service provider over the phone or signing up for service online. This SIM card will allow the watch to connect to cellular networks, making GPS tracking and two-way conversation possible.
Before beginning the setup process, make sure the data plan you’ve selected is compatible with the watch’s requirements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Set up Kids GPS Watch
Setting up a kid’s GPS watch might seem like a daunting task, but fear not. In this section, we will walk you through the process to ensure you can get your child a watch with smooth operation.
Step 1: Unboxing and Initial Inspection
Carefully remove the GPS watch from its packaging as soon as it arrives. Examine the items inside. You should find the watch, a charging cable, a comprehensive user manual, and any other accessories.
It is essential to read the user manual in order to have a smooth process of setting up the device. You will get a grasp of all the features and functionalities of the watch after reading it.
Step 2: Charging the Watch
Ensure that the battery is fully charged to 100%. It’s important to refer to the user’s manual for instructions on how to monitor the charge indicator based on your smartwatch model.
When browsing through the product description of a kid’s smartwatch, you will likely come across details about the battery. Its capacity is typically measured in milliampere hours (mAh). The higher the mAh number, the longer the battery of the children’s smartwatch is expected to be. We recommend a minimum of 650mAh.
Some sources may provide advice on prolonging battery life, suggesting charge and discharge cycles. However, with lithium batteries, there’s no need for experimentation.
Once you have completed charging, carefully insert a SIM card according to the instructions provided for your watch model. It’s essential not to force anything as there is a straightforward method outlined in the manual.
Step 3: Installing the SIM Card
Unfortunately, not all SIM cards work well with smartphones meant for children. Most models use a 4G internet connection, although some cellular providers still offer 3G. It’s important to purchase a SIM card from a provider that supports at least 4G standards.
However, it’s advisable not to rely on the information provided by salesmen in stores as they may not be knowledgeable enough about this issue. Therefore, it’s recommended to check in advance.
It’s worth noting that just because your mobile provider supports 4G in one region doesn’t necessarily mean they have the same standard in all regions. We suggest reaching out to the provider or visiting their office to obtain confirmation of 4G availability for your device in the specific region you’ll be using it in.
We also recommend opting for a paid calling plan with fixed payments and unlimited data options. This way, you can ensure that you won’t lose contact with your child or their current location, even if your balance is zero.
When dealing with staff members, kindly request them to disable any paid subscriptions and services without your approval. Often, providers activate fee-paying services without seeking permission. Stay safe and vigilant in such situations!
Step 4: Downloading and Setting Up the App
Most GPS watches for kids come with their mobile app, which allows you to customize and control various settings. To begin this process, follow these steps:
- Open your device’s app store – Google Play Store for Android users or App Store for iOS users
- Search for the application mentioned in your user manual
- Once you find it, install the app on your smartphone or tablet
Step 5: Creating a New Account
To get started, simply open the app and carefully follow the instructions that appear on your screen. You’ll be asked to provide your email address, create a password, and go through a verification process by confirming your account through an email.
Step 6: Connecting the Watch
Once you’ve successfully created an account, log in to the app and proceed with these steps to establish a connection between your watch and your account;
- Turn on the GPS watch
- Look for an option within the app that allows you to add a device or watch. This may involve scanning a QR code displayed on your watch or entering a device ID
- Follow the instructions provided by the app to establish a connection
Step 7: Managing Contacts
Depending on the features of your watch, you might have the ability to set up contacts that can communicate with your child. Here’s how you can configure this feature through the app:
- Access the contacts section within the app
- Add contacts by entering their names and phone numbers
- Save any changes made to ensure that these contacts are synced with the watch
Step 8: Setting Up Safety Zones (Geofencing)
By using geofencing features, you can define zones for your child’s whereabouts. You’ll receive alerts if they happen to enter or leave these designated areas securely.
Here’s how to do it:
- Open the app and go to the geofencing settings
- Use the map to set up the zones by marking their boundaries
- Give each zone a name. Save it
Step 9: Test the Watch
Make a test call to ensure that the watch’s communication features are working properly. Monitor the watch’s position on the app’s map to check if location tracking is accurate.
Step 10: Put The Watch on your Child’s Wrist
Once you’re confident in the watch’s setup, securely attach it to your child’s wrist. Take some time to explain how they can use communication features like making calls to configured contacts.
Step 11: Monitor Through the App
With the watch on your child’s wrist, you can now use the app for monitoring, track their real-time location using the map feature, and get notifications if they enter or leave designated safety zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most kids’ GPS watches need an app, which can only be downloaded into a smartphone or tablet. The setup, communication, and monitoring processes are all aided by this app. On the other hand, certain watches may have adjustment features built right in. For the most complete setup experience, the app should be used.
The technology in the watch, the strength of the GPS signal, and the surroundings all play a role in how precisely a child’s whereabouts are tracked by a GPS watch.
This kind of watch may deliver precise position data under certain situations. Accuracy may be compromised, however, by a number of things like signal strength in regions or very tall buildings.
The first step is to ensure that you have chosen the right size of SIM card. The size required may vary depending on the model. Typically, it will be either micro or nano SIM. Look for an indicator showing how to position the card. Alternatively, consult the manual that came with your watch to learn about insertion.
Yes, many GPS watches for children offer the capability to establish safety zones or geofences. This function proves beneficial as it allows you to designate locations such as home, school, or a family member’s residence.
By personalizing notifications for each zone, you can receive alerts whenever your child enters or leaves these predetermined areas, providing an added layer of security and tranquility for both you and your child.
Wrapping Up
Parents now see a smartwatch for children as more than a luxury item. It’s a tool for keeping them secure in the modern world. Parents may relax and be sure of their children’s safety if they maintain constant communication with them.
Following the above-mentioned instructions should help you properly configure your kiddo’s GPS watch. To ensure you are always prepared, it’s a good idea to talk to your kid about the watch’s features and functionality.
Carson Harris is a highly qualified author and expert in GPS tracking technology. With a background in electrical engineering and machine learning, he has established himself as a trusted source of information. Carson’s work experience at Garmin and Panasonic has further enhanced his expertise. He possesses creative skills in website design and AI applications. Known for his clear and concise communication, Carson’s articles on Trax Family’s website provide valuable insights on GPS trackers.