Smartwatches for kids have become the new trend — GPS tracking, fitness goals, text messaging, and even SOS alerts. On one hand, they promise safety and peace of mind for parents. On the other, some worry they may cross into over-monitoring and limit a child’s growing independence. 
For parents, these devices can be comforting — knowing your child’s location or getting alerts can help in emergencies or when kids travel alone. They can also encourage healthy habits like movement and time management. 
But there’s another side: constant tracking might send the message that we don’t trust our kids. Children, especially older ones, need to learn responsibility and decision-making. When every move is monitored, it can reduce that sense of freedom and privacy.
The key is balance — use wearables as a tool for communication, not control. Set clear expectations: “We use this to stay safe, not to watch you.” As kids mature, gradually loosen restrictions and replace tracking with trust. 
Parenting in the digital age is about guidance, not surveillance — technology should support independence, not replace it.
Parents, what’s your view — are smartwatches for kids helpful or too controlling?