Travel and child safety Apps

Travel and child safety apps can provide an additional layer of reassurance for families on the move. 

Many of today’s apps bring together features such as:

• GPS tracking, 
• location sharing, 
• emergency alerts helping parents/carers stay connected with children in busy or unfamiliar environments.

Common tools include geofencing work by sending a notification if a child leaves a designated area along with check-ins and real-time location updates. 

These features can support safety while still allowing children a sense of independence.

A range of well-regarded apps are available. Options such as Apple’s Find My and Google Family Link offer reliable device tracking, while GeoZilla and bSafe include functions like location alerts and SOS emergency features. 

Some platforms, including Life360, combine several of these tools into a single app with added insights such as journey updates and driving information, making them a popular choice for families looking for an all-in-one solution. 

Life360 has an additional feature where it can be linked with a Tile bluetooth tracker, meaning that the children don’t need to carry a physical phone.

Most apps are easy to use and widely supported on smartphones. Some also include practical travel features like offline maps or access to local emergency information, which can be helpful when exploring new areas.

It’s important to remember that apps should complement, not replace good road safety awareness, active supervision, and open communication within families.

Reviewing privacy settings and involving older children in how the app is used can help ensure it remains a positive and trusted tool.

Used thoughtfully, travel and child safety apps can support safer journeys and provide valuable peace of mind for families.

Safeguarding disclaimer

RBWM recommends using a child safety app as an optional tool to support families with travel safety and independence. 

Use of any tracking app or device is a parent or carer decision and should be appropriate to the child’s age, needs and circumstances.

These apps are not a replacement for adult supervision, safe travel education, or safeguarding responsibilities, and schools are not responsible for the set up, monitoring or management of the app or any associated devices.