Top Children's Smart Watches With GPS and Calling Features

TL;DR: In 2025, choosing the best kids GPS smartwatch with two-way calling requires balancing connectivity, safety, and durability. Market-leading options like the TickTalk 5 provide a secure smartphone alternative, utilizing AI-driven SmartPin technology for precise tracking and 4G LTE for high-definition video calls, ensuring parents stay connected without exposing children to the distractions of the open internet.

Key Takeaways

• Communication Excellence: Modern devices have evolved into wrist-worn phones, supporting HD voice, video calling (FaceTalk), and cross-platform messaging.
• AI-Enhanced Tracking: New technologies, such as TickTalk’s SmartPin, combine GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular data to reduce location "drifting" in indoor environments.
• Controlled Digital Environment: The best smartwatches for kids intentionally exclude social media, web browsers, and addictive games to ensure a distraction-free experience.
• Ruggedized Engineering: Standard features now include IP67 water resistance and reinforced casings to survive the active lifestyle of a child.
• Parental Autonomy: Comprehensive companion apps allow parents to manage contact "whitelists," blocking all unknown or unauthorized numbers automatically.

Why GPS and Calling Features are the Top Priority for Parents

When parents search for a kids smartwatch with GPS and calling, they are primarily seeking peace of mind through two specific avenues: knowing where their child is and being able to talk to them instantly.

Modern parenting often involves managing "micro-moments" of independence. Whether a child is walking home from the bus stop or attending an after-school club, a children’s GPS tracking watch with phone call features acts as a digital tether. Unlike a smartphone, which is easily lost or left in a backpack, a watch stays securely on the wrist, making it much more likely that a child will hear and answer a call.

Furthermore, the calling feature serves a functional daily purpose. It isn't just for emergencies; it is for the "I'm running 5 minutes late" or "Don't forget your jacket" moments that define a typical family schedule.

Technological Benchmark: A Deep Dive into TickTalk 5

As a specialist in the children’s wearable space, TickTalk has refined its latest model, the TickTalk 5, to address the specific technical demands of modern families.

Advanced Communication Beyond Basic Voice

The TickTalk 5 stands out as a best kids GPS smartwatch with two-way calling because it treats communication as a multi-layered experience.

• FaceTalk Video Calling: Allows parents to see their child’s surroundings in high definition via 4G LTE or Wi-Fi.
• Secure Messaging: Supports voice recordings, photos, and 3D greeting cards within a parent-monitored environment.
• Contact Whitelisting: Only parent-approved numbers can contact the watch, eliminating spam and telemarketing calls.

Precision Tracking with SmartPin Technology

Traditional GPS often struggles inside large buildings like schools or malls. To solve this, the TickTalk 5 utilizes SmartPin technology, which uses AI to learn Wi-Fi and cellular signatures of frequently visited locations.

The Result: By aggregating data from multiple sources, the watch delivers more stable and accurate indoor location tracking.

Engineering for Childhood: Durability and Power

A kids smartwatch with GPS and calling is only useful if it stays powered and intact throughout the day.

• High-Capacity Battery: A 770mAh battery delivers approximately 48 hours of normal use and over 100 hours of standby time.
• IP67 Water Resistance: Designed to withstand splashes, rain, and accidental submersion.
• Shockproof Design: Reinforced casing protects the touchscreen and internal 5MP camera.

Comparing the Best Kids GPS Smartwatch Options

While several brands offer a children’s GPS tracking watch with phone call features, the differences in network flexibility and feature depth are significant.

Real-World Scenarios: How Families Use the Technology

Scenario 1: The First Independent Walk Home
A child walks home while a parent monitors real-time location. Upon arrival, the child sends a voice message confirming they are safe.

Scenario 2: Coordinating After-School Pickups
Practice ends early, and the child places a quick call from their wrist to coordinate pickup.

Scenario 3: Eliminating School Distractions
Using Focus Mode, parents lock interactive features during school hours, turning the watch into a simple clock.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does the watch require a monthly service plan?
Yes. The watch functions like a cellphone for real-time tracking and calling. Plans typically start around $9.99/month with no long-term contracts.

2. Is there an age limit for using these watches?
Designed for ages 5–12, with strong appeal to tweens due to music streaming and modern design.

3. How does the watch handle indoor location tracking?
SmartPin technology triangulates location using Wi-Fi and cellular data when GPS signals are weak.

4. Can my child access social media or the internet?
No. These devices do not include web browsers or social media apps.

5. What happens if an unknown number calls the watch?
Calls from non-whitelisted numbers are automatically blocked.

Conclusion

Selecting the best kids GPS smartwatch with two-way calling is about choosing a reliable communication partner for your family. The TickTalk 5 sets a high standard with strong battery life, secure connectivity, and precise tracking.

By choosing a dedicated wearable over a smartphone, you give your child independence while maintaining a vital safety net.