Smart phones and GPS watches give parents more peace, but constant supervision can affect their relationship with their children. Experts explain how to find the balance between security, privacy and independence

Technology has made it easier for parents to know where their children are. Smart phones, GPS watches, and location tracking devices are used more and more frequently, especially when children start going to school only or meet friends.

According to data quoted by American magazine Parents, 86 percent of parents involved in a survey claim to follow their children’s whereabouts, while 71 percent do so often.

Although these devices may offer additional security, psychologists warn that their use without agreement can create a sense of control and violate trust.

When Technology Gives Children More Freedom

Child psychologist Dr. Rupa Robbins, founder of the organisation Tech Posive Parenting, explains that tracking equipment can be useful for both sides.

Parents feel calmer, and children can gain more freedom to move independently.

Family therapist Dr. David Simonsen notes that technology can avoid unnecessary worries.

He mentions a mother who was able to find her teenage son in a friend because he had not returned home at the appointed time. Instead of panic, the situation ended with a conversation about communication and responsibility.

Not all devices indicate location in real time

Experts stress that parents should understand the technological limitations of equipment they use.

For example, AirTag has been created primarily for finding personal items, such as keys or bags, rather than for the ongoing pursuit of children.

Its location is updated according to nearby Apple network equipment, so information may not always be current.

GPS phones and smart watches and appropriate connections can be more functional, even though they do not guarantee constant accuracy.

No Safety Education Replaces

Dr. Robbins points out that tracking should not replace conversations with children about daily dangers.

Children need to learn how to react to strangers, to whom to turn for help, and what to do when they lose their orientation.

They should also know how to respect family agreements and communicate when plans change.

For young children, a tracking device cannot replace the oversight of a responsible adult.

A error that could damage trust between parent and child

Problems are especially common when parents activate their child’s tracking.

If a child finds that he is secretly being pursued, he may experience this as a lack of trust and a lack of privacy.

According to Dr. Robbins, a feeling of constant oversight, may make the child less willing to tell parents about the challenges you experience.

Hence, before using technology, parents need to ask themselves whether there is a real security concern or whether the decision stems primarily from their anxiety.

Continued tracking is not necessarily the solution to parental fears.

How Can You Explain Your Child’s Need for Tracking?

Psychologists recommend that the device be presented as an opportunity for more independence, not as punishment or an expression of disbelief.

Instead of telling your child that you do not believe him, explain that you are still getting used to the fact that he is moving more and more without your association.

It is also important to include your decision – making. Ask him what situation he would feel comfortable with sharing his whereabouts and what restrictions he would consider right.

Some families choose to divide their location in both directions so that children can see where their parents are. Others activate only on their way to school or on trips.

Agreement must change with child rearing

According to psychologists quoted by Parents, it is helpful for the family to set up a trial period and then discuss the experience.

After a week or a month, parents and children can evaluate whether tracking is still necessary and whether the agreement needs to be changed.

As a child grows, so should room for independence and personal responsibility.

The purpose is not to let parents know where the child is but to help him learn to be secure even when they are not near. Because technology can indicate location, but trust is built through communication. /Telegraphy/