Should You Track Your Kid? Experts Weigh In on the Pros, Cons, and Best Practices

A tracker can mean more independence for kids and less worry for parents. But experts say the way you introduce it, and the conversation you have first, can make or break your child’s trust.

In this digital age, modern parents have become accustomed to using digital tools that can aid in parenting children. One of these tools is the digital tracker, which allows parents to keep tabs on their children’s whereabouts.

A woman holding her smartphone while children with their smartphones are featured on a widescreen behind her | Source: Pexels

According to a survey cited by Parents, 86% of parents say they track their children’s location, and 71% check in frequently. While the numbers suggest it’s more common than you think, here’s what experts have said about tracking your children and what you should consider before doing so.

The Pros

There are real benefits to trackers, most importantly, peace of mind for parents. According to child psychologist Rupa Robbins, founder of Tech Positive Parenting, it’s a “win-win” situation because while parents can breathe a sigh of relief knowing where their child is, children also get the freedom to do things on their own, with their parents’ permission.

A woman calmly checking her smartphone while at work | Source: Pexels

Trackers can also be useful for specific situations, like the first time a child goes to school solo, or when spending a day at a crowded amusement park. There are even devices that alert parents when the child has arrived at or left a certain place.

The Cons

Trackers can be slow to update or show an inaccurate location, especially in areas with spotty cell service. And there’s also the problem of the device running on battery. When that runs out, it’s useless.

A person holding a smartphone with a blank screen | Source: Pexels

Another possible obstacle is that some devices aren’t equipped for the job. Robbins warns against using AirTags, which were designed to find items like keys and bags. “Location updates depend on nearby Apple devices, so they aren’t truly real-time,” she says. Apple also says AirTags aren’t meant to track people, and their anti-stalking features may alert others nearby, including teachers.

Another important thing to consider when tracking your kids is the element of trust. When kids learn that they’re being tracked without their knowledge, this gives them the feeling that they’re being watched. According to Robbins, that makes them less likely to seek their parents’ aid when they need it. Experts also warn against constantly monitoring your kids, as it can lead to anxiety and secrecy.

A daughter with her smartphone, turning back on her mother who looks away while crossing her arms in frustration | Source: Pexels

Best Practices

If you’re already using a tracker for your child or want to start using one, ask yourself first, why? Robbins suggests asking: Is it because of a real risk, or general anxiety? Is it for a specific situation, or every time your child leaves the house?

It’s important that you discuss this with your child, and Robbins suggests framing the tracker as an easier way for your child to get a “yes” from you whenever they ask permission for something that would require their freedom, such as walking to school or meeting friends at the park.

A woman having a discussion with her daughter on the breakfast table | Source: Pexels

There’s nothing wrong with being honest about your intentions and concerns, too. “Kids respond well to ‘I’m still getting used to you being out on your own’ rather than ‘I don’t trust you,’” Robbins says.

Once you’ve had an open dialogue with your children about tracking them, you can revisit it with them another time to see what’s working and what’s not.

Parents having a casual conversation with their daughter, the father holding up a smartphone | Source: Pexels

Finally, a tracker is only one step in ensuring your child’s safety. You’ll also need to equip them with safety skills. “Just because we can track our kids doesn’t mean that we don’t need to teach them the same, or more, life skills for being out in the world,” Robbins says.

There is a limit to tracking your kids, though. As they get older, experts say parents should gradually pull back. “Our job is to put ourselves out of a job,” says Julie Lythcott-Haims, author of “How to Raise an Adult.” “Don’t let technology get between you and them.”