Parents prefer smartwatches over smartphones for children

More parents are choosing smartwatches for their young children instead of smartphones. They believe smartwatches help control screen time and prevent exposure to inappropriate content. In Singapore, one mother, Ms. Shirley Ng, decided to give her daughter Alysandra, 9, a smartwatch instead of a phone. She feels more secure knowing that Alysandra can only communicate with approved contacts and that the watch has limited features. Ms. Ng wants to keep her daughter’s screen time in check and avoid the addictive aspects of smartphones. The market for children's smartwatches is growing. In 2024, over 20 million smartwatches for kids were shipped globally, a 9% increase from the previous year. In Singapore, about 35,000 of these were sold, nearly double the amount in 2023. Despite a decline in overall smartwatch sales, the kids' smartwatch sector has thrived. Parents appreciate features like GPS for tracking their child's location and restricted communication options. Smartwatches from brands like Xiaomi and Garmin typically range from $80 to $270. These devices often require a separate SIM card for calls and messaging. As concerns about smartphone addiction rise, some parents are setting stricter guidelines on screen time. Singapore's Health Ministry advises limiting screen time to under two hours per day for children under 12. This encourages parents to opt for child-friendly devices instead. Experts warn that while smartwatches can offer peace of mind, they can also be distracting. Mrs. Esther Foong-Tan of SGFamilies advises parents to be mindful of potential distractions caused by notifications on smartwatches. Overall, the trend reflects a broader push for healthier screen habits among children.