Apple Watch for Kids Features Explained: Family Setup and Schooltime Mode

The advancement of technology comes with many useful tools not just for adults but also for children. With that, the Apple Watch can be used for kids as more parents are making use of its features.

Apple Watch Allows Parents to Access a Child's Location to Ensure Safety

According to the story by 9to5Mac, the Apple Watch provides a way for parents and kids to keep in touch with different features like shared location. It also provides reminders for kids and other abilities at a more affordable cost compared to an iPhone.

An advantage of using an Apple Watch for kids instead of a smartphone is that the smartwatch limits what kids can do by avoiding distractions and ensuring they can focus on what needs to be done. An article by The New York Times in 2022 tackled how parents were using the Apple Watch for their children as young as five years old.

The Apple Watch is Good for Parents Who Don't Want to Give Their Children Too Much Access

The article also highlighted how some parents thought the Apple Watch was more appropriate for kids who wanted their parents to buy them smartphones. It was also noted that as kids return to school, parents might want to invest in something that provides connectivity but "without the commitment of a smartphone."

The Apple Watch can be used as a way for parents to get their child's location and limit their access to apps. It's a good starter device for kids that also introduces them to technology without the ability to abuse it.

The Apple Watch Family Setup Allows

Apple also has a feature called the Family Setup, which allows parents to set up the Apple Watch from their iPhone without any iPhone needed for that specific family member. This is applicable to the Apple Watch SE or Series 4 and higher models.

However, parents still have to pay a monthly connection fee, which is priced at around $10. So far, T-Mobile has its own kid-friendly plan that offers unlimited calling as well as a fair 500MB/month for half the price.

Schooltime Feature Lets Parents Restrict Access to Distracting Apps During School Hours

It was revealed that the Family Setup also comes with the Schooltime feature, which locks the Apple Watch during school hours. This helps prevent the kids from being tempted to distract themselves in class.

The article by 9to5Mac also describes how the Apple Watch's typical bands won't fit children as young as five years old. However, one solution is to purchase a Nike Sports-style band by BlackPRO, which costs under $15.

These sports bands, with extremely adjustable and breathable bands, are designed for kids to wear, ensuring that they stay comfortable throughout the day. The bands are reportedly waterproof but also made of soft silicone material, making it skin-friendly for tiny risks between 6.29 and 7.87 inches.