10 Tracking Gadgets That Are Perfect for Families

Keep a firm (literally or digitally) grip on your kids no matter where life takes you.

By Melissa Heckscher June 8, 2017

Compared to your kid, Houdini was an amateur. If you avoid crowds and frequent fenced-in playgrounds for fear of losing your little one to the Big Wide World, we’ve got good news. From GPS-enabled smartwatches to innovative child leashes (no judgment here!), there’s a whole range of great gadgets and apps designed to stop little escape artists from disappearing—and how to find them if they do. Flip through the slideshow below to see our top picks.

Mommy I’m Here Locators

Wouldn't it be nice to simply press a button to make your wanderer's whereabouts known? That's the idea behind this little gadget, which uses a two-way radio technology (or Bluetooth, depending on the model you choose) to keep you connected to your little explorer. Just strap the bear-shaped transmitter to your kiddo's shoelace or belt loop, and if she strays further than about 30 feet away, your parent keychain transmitter will start to chirp. Then, press a button and you'll set off an 87-decibel alarm on your kid's bear. This might make you a terrible hide-and-seek partner but it sure does keep your kid from wandering too far.

If you prefer to do everything through your smartphone—and you want to give your little explorer a little more space—the Bluetooth version pairs with your mobile device, and has a range of up to 100 feet. It also lets you sound the alarm from further away, which is great for that sudden burst of Mom panic you get when your kid does a quick disappearing act.

Best for ages: 1+

Cost: $24.95 and up.

Online: mommyimhere.com