STACK #216 October 2022

FEATURE LIFE TECH

SPACETALK ADVENTURER KIDS SMARTWATCH 4G Boasting a large display, two

way 4G phone, 5MP camera, GPS tracking and no open internet, the Adventurer is designed for kids aged 5–12 and is the first kids’ watch to include heart rate tracking. There is also a School Mode that

Smartwatches specifically designed for kids not only foster a sense of independence and responsibility in a child, but also assuage parental anxiety by offering full control of the device via its companion app. Words Bec Summer K ids’ smartwatches are cool, colourful and packed with fitness features and fun stuff to keep youngsters engaged, KID WATCH

turns it into a regular watch when class is in. Parents can connect to the SpaceTalk app for full control of contacts, calls and location tracking. PIXBEE KIDS 4G VIDEO SMARTWATCH This 4G video watch features calls keeps kids connected, while real-time location data and safe zones let parents know where they are. Classroom Mode blocks functions during school hours, and the watch can also be remotely disabled should it go missing. The free Pixbee app offers full parental control, but you will need to buy a nano SIM card. FITBIT ACE 3 KIDS ACTIVITY TRACKER The Ace 3 tracks steps, active minutes and sleep duration. It’s also waterproofed for clocking laps of the pool. Parents can monitor activity, approve connections and set fun and competitive challenges using the Fitbit app, and if your child has a phone, calls can be taken from the wrist if it’s nearby. Eight days of battery life is another ace aspect. in-app GPS tracking, a 2MP camera, and no open internet. Two way voice and video

challenges and rewards, and some will even track heart rate and monitor sleep duration. They’re also designed for fun, of course, with preloaded games, adventures, educational apps, and customisable animated watch faces. Durability is also important, as kids can play rough – check the device’s IP rating for water resistance and consider a screen

active and safe. Most importantly, complete control of its use, safety and location settings provides invaluable peace of mind for parents. Some devices share similar connectivity to a smartphone – albeit without the minefield of open internet and social media – and may require a 4G nano SIM card (sold separately). The device’s companion app is the nerve centre and a parent’s first port of call. It’s where priority settings like two-way talk, text messaging, approved contact lists and real-time GPS tracking are enabled. And if the watch has a geo-fencing function, you can set virtual ‘safe zones’ with alerts should your child stray beyond the set perimeters. Kids’ wearables promote physical activity and healthy habits through competitive step

protector. Kids are also likely to drain the battery quickly, so the longer it lasts, the better. Naturally, parental control and safety features should be the deciding factor when

purchasing a kids' smartwatch, but it also pays to ask what your child wants in terms of colour, design and features. Consider, too, your child’s age to ensure you get the most suitable functions.

GARMIN VIVOFIT JR. 3 FITNESS TRACKER This interactive tracker is designed

NOTES FROM A NINE-YEAR-OLD

with adventure in mind – from virtual global exploration to Marvel heroes and Disney

What do you think of the colour? I got the midnight colour with tiny white speckles, and I love it because it goes with everything. Is it comfortable? Yes, it’s very comfortable. The strap is very secure even when I’m playing rough, and it can be adjusted to fit any wrist. How often do you wear it? Whenever I’m allowed to.

What’s the best thing about it? I can talk and text Mum and Dad whenever I need to, which is nice to know. So if I get lost, or I’m with my friends, I can chat to them. What’s the best feature? Other than the talk and text, it would have to be the weather. Would you recommend it to your friends? Yes. I have already told my friends to get one.

The offspring of one of STACK ’s writers recently received a Spacetalk Adventurer for his birthday. So, what does he think of it? Plenty.

princesses. It’s also a dedicated fitness tracker – 60 minutes of daily activity unlocks access to games and

challenges in the companion app. And weekly chores can be assigned, with collectible gems and coins as reward incentives. Enabling Kid Mode in the Garmin Jr. app provides limited access from the watch, and there is a widget to store emergency contact details.

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