The Smartwatch Decision
When your child asks for a smartwatch, you're really making a decision about communication boundaries. The right choice depends on your child's age and how much setup work you're willing to do. Younger kids benefit from a device that's locked down by default, while teenagers may need something more capable that you configure yourself.
Verizon Gizmo Watch: Best for Younger Kids
The Gizmo Watch is designed specifically for children and takes a security-first approach. Every contact must be manually added and approved by a parent before your child can communicate with them. There's no way for strangers to reach your child through the device.
Key Features
- Strict contact controls: Only approved contacts can call or message your child. You add and approve each contact manually through the parent app.
- Remote power control: Easily power off the watch remotely when needed, such as during school hours or bedtime.
- Scheduling: Set specific times when the watch is active or in quiet mode.
- Limited distractions: Games and extras are minimal. The watch focuses on communication and practical tools rather than entertainment.
- Task tracker and reminders: The main features help kids stay organized with chores, homework reminders, and daily routines.
Apple Watch: Best for Teenagers
Most teenagers, especially those already in the Apple ecosystem, will prefer an Apple Watch. The good news is that Apple provides equivalent security and protection capabilities to the Gizmo Watch. The catch is that these protections require more work from you as a parent to set up, and they're not enabled by default.
Setting Up Apple Watch Safely
All parental controls for the Apple Watch are managed through Screen Time in Settings. If you haven't already, review our Screen Time setup guide for the foundation.
Critical Settings to Configure
- Set up Family Sharing: Add your child's Apple Watch to your Family Sharing group so you can manage it remotely.
- Enable Screen Time: Go to Settings > Screen Time on your iPhone, select your child's device, and turn on Screen Time if not already enabled.
- Manage Contacts: In Screen Time settings, navigate to Communication Limits. Set "During Screen Time" and "During Downtime" to "Contacts Only" to prevent communication with unknown numbers.
- Approve trusted contacts: Review and approve each contact your child can communicate with. Remove any contacts you don't recognize or trust.
- Set Downtime: Configure hours when the watch should be limited, such as during school or at night.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Gizmo Watch | Apple Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Secure by default | Yes | No (requires setup) |
| Contact approval required | Built-in | Via Screen Time |
| Setup complexity | Low | Medium to High |
| Entertainment features | Limited | Extensive |
| Best age range | 5-10 years | 13+ years |
| Remote power off | Yes | No |
The Bottom Line
If your child is younger or you want a device that's secure without any configuration, choose the Gizmo Watch. If your teenager insists on an Apple Watch and you're willing to invest time in properly configuring Screen Time, the Apple Watch can be made equally secure. The key is not which device you choose, but ensuring that contact controls are properly set up before handing it over.