Every parent’s primary responsibility and source of stress is their child’s safety. It becomes even more challenging when your child has an autism spectrum disorder.
Children with autism are likely to wander away and become lost. They struggle with social interaction and verbal and nonverbal communication, and they may be unable to communicate with strangers to find their way back.
You cannot monitor them physically 24/7, but this doesn’t mean you can compromise their safety. You can use GPS to track your child most effectively and locate them when they get lost. It will help you to bring them back safely and prevent similar accidents in the future.
In this article, we help you discover some of the best GPS trackers on the market. Also, we will discuss how you can use this effectively to maximize your child’s safety.
Family1st is the best choice for a GPS tracker to find a lost autistic child. It is affordable and offers reliable real-time tracking. It also has wide coverage across the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Table of Contents
Our Best Picks For Tracking Devices to Find a Lost Autistic Child
| Product | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Affordable and accurate tracking | Wearable accessories for sensory-sensitive children | Live audio monitoring | Waterproof and durable for outdoor use | Automated security with real-time alerts | Long battery life for continuous monitoring |
| Cost | $29.95 | $79 | $54.95 | $29.95 | $129.99 | $39.95 |
| Key Benefits | Budget-friendly solution for tracking wandering children with autism | Sensory-friendly wearable options for autistic kids | Ensures child safety with live audio monitoring in real time | Waterproof, perfect for children who enjoy water activities | 5G tracking and 911 emergency dispatch for quick response | Long battery life ensures 24/7 monitoring without frequent charging |
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Common Challenges Of Parenting An Autistic Child
Finances
Finances are a significant challenge for parents of autistic children. According to Forbes, therapy can cost between $17,000 and $100,000 per year. It often requires 20–40 hours a week for many years. Other costs like transportation, hiring help, or a parent leaving work add to the financial burden.
Stress
Stress is every day for parents caring for an autistic child. The constant attention required can feel like a full-time job. No breaks or outside rewards exist, just responsibility and love.
No Time for Self
No time for self-care is a reality for many parents. Balancing the child’s needs and daily tasks leaves little room for personal time, leading to exhaustion.
Communication Challenge
Communication challenges make parenting harder. Autistic children might not express their needs clearly. This can cause frustration for both the parent and the child as they try to understand what is wrong.
Wandering
Wandering is a safety issue for some autistic children. They might leave home or familiar places without knowing the danger. This forces parents to stay alert and use safety tools like GPS trackers.
Another study by the NAA reports that wandering leads to 71% of lethal outcomes and 18% of traffic injuries. The other associated risks are dehydration, heat strokes, hypothermia, panic attacks, etc.
But thanks to modern technology, you have a GPS tracker to monitor your child’s activity and prevent them from wandering or getting lost.
How We Tested GPS Trackers for Children with Autism
We tested GPS trackers for children with autism. We focused on important factors like accuracy, ease of use, and reliability. We tested how well each tracker gave real-time location data in different places.
We also evaluated how easy each device was to set up and use. Our goal was to find trackers that parents could quickly understand and operate without any technical hassle.
Durability and battery life were important too. We tested how well the devices worked in daily use. We also checked how long the battery lasted. We wanted to ensure they could run for a long time without needing to charge often.
Top 6 GPS Trackers for Children with Autism
Family1st GPS Tracker- Best Overall
Family1st GPS tracker offers an affordable and reliable way to keep track of children with autism. Its small size makes it easy to fit in a backpack. It provides real-time tracking with geofencing. This helps prevent wandering and offers peace of mind.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable price and low monthly subscription | ❌ No SOS button for emergencies |
| ✅ Accurate real-time tracking with geofencing |
Key features
- Low device cost and subscription plan
- No contract, no extra charges for activation and deactivation
- Lifetime Warranty on the device
- Coverage in USA
Product Information
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription | $21.95 |
| Size | 2.8” x 1.8” x 1.1” |
| Weight | 3.60 Oz |
| Battery | 2400 mAh |
| Battery Type | Internal and Rechargeable |
| Battery Life | Up to 2 weeks battery life |
Why Do We Recommend Family1st GPS Tracker?
Cost-effective Solution
Cost-effective solution is what Family1st offers, priced at $29.95 with a $21.95 monthly subscription. It keeps your child safe without costing too much. This makes it a good choice for tracking children with autism.
Small Size
Small size makes Family1st easy to attach to your child’s clothing or slip into a backpack. Its lightweight design ensures comfort while providing reliable tracking.
Faster Connectivity
Faster connectivity through 4G technology ensures real-time location updates, even in remote areas. You can stay connected to your child’s whereabouts anywhere across the USA.
Accurate Tracking
Accurate tracking is a key feature, allowing you to monitor your child’s exact location. The geofencing feature lets you set up safe zones, helping prevent wandering and ensuring peace of mind.
Easy Access
Easy access is available through the app on both Android and iPhone. The app provides live tracking, travel history, and instant alerts via SMS and email, keeping you informed at all times.
AngelSense GPS Tracker- Best GPS Tracker with Various Wearable Accessories
AngelSense GPS tracker is designed for children with sensory sensitivities. The tamper-proof, sensory-friendly accessories keep the tracker secure. Real-time tracking and two-way communication help parents check their child’s location and well-being.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Sensory-friendly wearable accessories designed for children with sensitivities | ❌ Higher monthly subscription compared to other options |
| ✅ Two-way communication to stay connected with your child |
Key features
- Small and lightweight
- Sensory-friendly
- SOS button
- 2-way voice with auto-pickup speakerphone
- SOS button
- Proactive Alerts
- Live Location Sharing
Product Information
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription | $49.99 |
| Size | 2.4″ x 1.7″ x 0.63″ |
| Weight | 1.4 Oz |
| Battery | Not Available |
| Battery Type | Not Available |
| Battery Life | 24 hours of active battery life |
Why Do We Recommend AngelSense GPS Tracker?
Reliable GPS Tracking Solution
Reliable GPS tracking solution ensures that you always know your child’s location. AngelSense provides real-time tracking. This gives you peace of mind by monitoring your child’s location, even at school. You can also connect it to the teacher’s phone.
Two-way Communication
Two-way communication is key to AngelSense, allowing you to talk to your child when needed. The one-way listening feature also ensures you can monitor their surroundings, preventing any potential mistreatment or bullying.
Wearable Sensory-friendly Accessories
Wearable sensory-friendly accessories make the device comfortable for children with autism. The tamper-proof design ensures it stays secure, offering additional safety without discomfort.
Personalized Search Team
Personalized search team support is available if your child gets lost. You can share the live location with a predefined search team, who will assist in bringing your child back safely.
Logistmiatics Mobile 200- Best GPS Tracker With Live Audio Monitoring
Logistimatics Mobile-200 offers live audio monitoring, allowing parents to listen in on their child’s surroundings. This feature, along with real-time GPS tracking, is incredibly helpful for keeping children with autism safe.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Live audio monitoring allows parents to hear the child’s surroundings | ❌ Bulky size compared to other trackers, making it less discreet |
| ✅ Long battery life ensures extended tracking without frequent charging |
Key features
- Waterproof GPS tracker
- Real-time GPS tracker with tracking apps
- Tiny and fits into the palm of your hand
- Tracker uses AT&T 4G cellular network
- Safety button feature
- Tracking updates are received every 30 seconds
Product Information
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription | $14.95-$24.95 |
| Size | 3.34″ x 2.28″ x 1.14″ |
| Weight | 7.1 Oz |
| Battery | 6000 mAh |
| Battery Type | Internal and Rechargeable |
| Battery Life | 10 days active battery life for 30-second updates |
Why Do We Recommend Logistimatics Mobile 200?
Live Audio Monitoring
Live audio monitoring lets you hear your child’s surroundings in real-time. This keeps them safe. This feature is particularly useful in preventing bullying, as you can remotely check on their environment.
Compact Device
Compact device design makes it easy for your child to carry without disrupting daily activities. Lightweight, it offers precise location tracking and has a long battery life, lasting up to 10 days with frequent updates.
Worldwide Coverage
Worldwide coverage ensures safety, even during international travel. With real-time updates available across the globe, you can monitor your child’s location no matter where you are.
LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker
LandAirSea 54 tracker is waterproof and rugged, perfect for children who engage in outdoor activities. It provides accurate real-time tracking and geofencing, ensuring continuous monitoring even in challenging environments.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Waterproof design perfect for children who enjoy water-based activities | ❌ Heavier than other trackers, which may cause some discomfort |
| ✅ Accurate location tracking even in difficult environments |
Key features
- Size: 2.25″ x 2.25″ x 0.8″
- Weight: 8 Oz
- Battery: Lithium-ion battery
- Battery Type: Internal and Rechargeable
- Three weeks active battery life with 3-minute updates
- Six months battery life on Sleep mode
Product Information
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription | $19.95 |
| Size | 2.25″ x 2.25″ x 0.8″ |
| Weight | 8 Oz |
| Battery | Lithium-ion |
| Battery Type | Internal and Rechargeable |
| Battery Life | 3 weeks active battery life with 3-minute updates. 6 months battery life on Sleep mode |
Why Do We Recommend LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker?
Waterproof
Its waterproof and dustproof design makes it durable. This means you can safely use it during water activities or if you drop it.
Accurate Location Tracking
Accurate location tracking delivers updates within 6 feet, allowing you to quickly locate your child if they wander. You can even reduce the update frequency to 3 seconds for faster tracking in urgent situations.
Geofences
Geofences can be set around specific areas like home or school, ensuring you’re alerted if your child leaves the zone. This feature helps prevent wandering and gives you extra peace of mind.
Jiobit Gen 3- Best GPS Tracker With Automated Security System
iobit Gen 3 is a small and light GPS tracker. It easily attaches to clothes, shoes, or backpacks. This makes it perfect for children with autism.
With 5G-compatible technology and real-time GPS tracking, it provides reliable, nationwide coverage. Its water-resistant design ensures durability, and the TrustChip technology guarantees privacy and data security
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Small, lightweight design that is comfortable for children to wear | ❌ Battery life could be longer for more extended monitoring periods |
| ✅ Integration with an emergency dispatch system for quick responses |
Key features
- Real-time tracking
- Custom Geofences and Smart alerts
- SOS mode, 911 emergency Dispatch
- Can add trusted contacts
Product Information
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription | $16.99 |
| Size | 1.96″ x 1.45″ x 0.47″ |
| Weight | 1.76 Oz |
| Battery | Lithium Polymer |
| Battery Type | 1 Lithium Polymer battery |
| Battery Life | 7 Days with constant tracking |
Why Do We Recommend Jiobit Gen 3 GPS Tracker?
Small, Lightweight and Durable
Small, lightweight, and durable design makes the Jiobit Gen 3 an ideal choice for children with autism. You can discreetly attach it to clothing or backpacks without causing any discomfort, allowing kids to move freely.
Real-time GPS Location Sharing
Real-time GPS location sharing ensures accurate, nationwide tracking using a combination of GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This lets parents check their child’s location anytime. They receive alerts if the child enters or leaves safe areas.
Safe & Secure
Safe and secure tracking is guaranteed with the Jiobit TrustChip, offering advanced encryption and privacy protection. This feature keeps your child’s data safe. A reliable choice for parents who worry about their child’s safety exists.
Optimus 3.0 GPS Tracker- Best GPS Tracker With Long Battery Life
Optimus 3.0 offers long battery life and dependable real-time tracking, ideal for continuous monitoring. Its compact design makes it easy to attach discreetly to your child’s clothing, providing peace of mind for parents who need 24/7 tracking.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Extremely long battery life, lasting up to one month | ❌ May need recalibration for accuracy |
| ✅ Simple design makes it easy to attach to clothing discreetly |
Key features
- Cost-effective
- Excellent motion sensor
- One month battery life with one-minute reporting frequency
- Low subscription plan, no hidden fee
Product Information
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Subscription | $19.95 |
| Size | 3″ x 1.5″ x 1″ |
| Weight | 3.3 Oz |
| Battery | Lithium Polymer |
| Battery Type | Internal and Rechargeable |
| Battery Life | 1-month active battery life with 1-minute updates |
Why Do We Recommend Optimus 3.0 GPS Tracker?
24/7 Live Monitoring
24/7 live monitoring ensures continuous tracking of your child. The Optimus 3.0 tracker is small and easy to hide in clothes. This allows your child to move freely while you monitor them comfortably.
Strong Battery Backup
Strong battery backup provides up to one month of use with a 1-minute update frequency. This long-lasting battery means you won’t need to recharge it very often. This keeps your child safe for longer periods.
Easy to Use
Easy-to-use features make the Optimus 3.0 tracker simple to use. The mobile app is available for both Android and iPhone. It lets you set up custom alerts and geofences. This gives you full control to monitor your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it essential to use GPS trackers for children with autism?
Children with autism are prone to wandering, which can lead to dangerous situations. GPS trackers can help parents locate their children and prevent them from getting lost.
What are the features of a good GPS tracker for children with autism?
A good GPS tracker for children with autism should be small and light. It should offer real-time tracking and have a long battery life. It should also be simple to use.
How much does a GPS tracker cost for children with autism?
The cost of a GPS tracker for children with autism varies from $29 to $129.
Can GPS trackers be used for other purposes besides tracking children with autism?
Yes. GPS trackers can be used for various purposes, such as tracking vehicles, pets, and elderly individuals.
Conclusion
Children with autism are prone to wandering. Sometimes, they stroll too far and get lost, leaving their parents behind, worried and panicking. Thankfully, technology has developed, and we can now use it to protect our children. GPS trackers can help rescue kids and bring them back safely.
GPS trackers provide a sense of relief to parents as they can track their children 24/7. We have prepared this list to help you find the ideal tracker for your child. You can go through them and choose the one that matches your needs.
But remember, before you choose anyone, do a little research on them. One effective way is to check out customer reviews. They are first-hand users and will provide more information about the product and its usage.
If you have any doubts about GPS trackers, please ask us in the comment section below. We will gladly help you out.
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