If you are the parent or caregiver of a child with autism, you may be wondering if a smartwatch would be a helpful tool for communication and daily living.
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are some things you may want to consider before making a purchase.
First, it is important to understand how your child will use the smartwatch. If your child is nonverbal or has difficulty communicating, a smartwatch with a built-in communication app can be a helpful tool for daily living.
For example, if your child has difficulty staying on task, you may want to consider a smartwatch with an activity tracker or timer function.
Another important consideration is durability. Smartwatches are generally more durable than other types of watches, but they are still susceptible to damage if they are dropped or mishandled. If your child is likely to be rough on the watch, you may want to consider a model with a durable case and strap.
Finally, it is important to think about price when choosing a smartwatch for your autistic child. There are models available at a variety of price points, so it is important to find one that fits your budget.
However, it is also important to keep in mind that the features and quality of the watch will vary depending on the price point. With the allergist’s guidance and input from experts and parents of children with autism, we’ve compiled a list of considerations for choosing a smartwatch for an autistic child.
Why a Smartwatch?
A smartwatch is essentially a miniature computer, with many of the features of a smartphone, that you can wear on your wrist. It’s a great tool for keeping track of your schedule, getting directions, and even keeping up with your social media notifications. But when it comes to autistic kids, there are a few things you should keep in mind before making a purchase.
For Safety
When it comes to safety, a smartwatch can help autistic kids in a number of ways. First, it can be used to track their location. If they wander off, parents can use the GPS tracking feature to find them.
The watch can also be used to call for help in an emergency. Additionally, many smartwatches have features that allow parents to set boundaries for their children. If the child goes outside of the boundary, the watch will send an alert to the parent.
And finally, some smartwatches have a two-way calling feature that allows parents and caregivers to stay in constant communication with the child.
For Communication
Many children with autism have difficulty communicating. A smartwatch can be a helpful tool for communication, as it can be pre-loaded with images or words that the child can select to communicate their needs. Some smartwatches even come with text-to-speech capabilities, so the child can communicate verbally.
For Independence
A smartwatch can be a great tool to promote independence for autistic kids. Many smartwatches have features that can help kids with autism stay on task and stay organized. For example, some smartwatches can send reminders for upcoming events or appointments.
Other smartwatches can track location, so parents can know where their child is at all times. There are even some smartwatches that have features specifically designed for autistic kids, such as social skills training games or deep pressure sensors to help with anxiety.
What to Consider Before You Buy
Before you buy a smartwatch for your autistic child, it is important to do your research and understand what to look for in a device.
There are many things to consider, such as the type of device, the features, the price, and more. In this article, we will go over a few things that you should keep in mind before you make your purchase.
The Right Size
As you begin your search for the perfect smartwatch for your autistic child, one of the first things you will want to consider is the size of the watch.
You will want to make sure that the watch is not too big or too small for your child’s wrist. If the watch is too big, it may be uncomfortable for your child to wear and may end up getting in the way. If the watch is too small, it may not be able to do all of the things that you want it to do.
There are many different sizes of smartwatches on the market, so you should have no trouble finding one that is the right size for your child. You can also find adjustable straps that can be used to make the watch smaller or larger, depending on your child’s needs.
Age Range
The age range that a smartwatch is meant for is another important thing to consider before you make your purchase. You will want to make sure that the smartwatch you select is appropriate for your child’s age. Some smartwatches are more geared toward younger children while others are meant for older children.
If you are not sure which age range a particular smartwatch is meant for, you can always check the product description or ask a salesperson before you make your purchase.
 Battery Life
Another thing to consider before purchasing a smartwatch for your autistic child is battery life. Smartwatches can vary greatly in terms of battery life, so you will want to make sure that you select one that will be able to meet your child’s needs.
Some smartwatches need to be charged daily while others can last for weeks or even months on a single charge.
If you are not sure how long the battery life of a particular smartwatch is, you can always check the product description or ask a salesperson before you make your purchase.
The Right Functions
When considering a smartwatch for your autistic child, the most important thing to look for is the right mix of functions. The watch should have enough features to keep your child interested, but not so many that it becomes overwhelming. Look for a watch with a few simple games, a music player, and a camera. Other nice features to have included a pedometer, an alarm, and the ability to make phone calls.
The Right Design
There are a few things you’ll want to consider before you buy a smartwatch for an autistic child. First, you’ll want to make sure that the watch has a design that your child will be comfortable wearing.
Some smartwatches are bulky and can be uncomfortable to wear, so it’s important to find one that’s the right size for your child. You’ll also want to ensure that the watch is durable and can withstand rough play.
Many autistic children are known to have sensory issues, so it’s important to find a watch that won’t be irritating to wear.
Another thing to consider is the type of display on the smartwatch. Some watches have color displays, while others have black and white displays. If your child is sensitive to light, you’ll want to choose a watch with a black and white display.
You should also consider how easy it is to read the display on the watch. If your child has difficulty reading, you’ll want to choose a watch with a large display or one that has bold lettering.
Finally, you’ll want to consider the price of the smartwatch. Smartwatches can range in price from around $50 to over $200. You’ll want to find one that fits into your budget and offers features that are important to you and your child.
Conclusion
When you’re looking for a smartwatch for an autistic kid, it’s important to keep in mind that each child is unique and will have different needs. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, so it’s important to find a watch that can be tailored to your child’s individual needs. In addition, consider the following factors before making your purchase:
Ease of use: Look for a watch that is easy to use and has few buttons or menus. autistic kids may have difficulty navigating complex interfaces.
Communication: Find a watch that offers two-way communication so you can stay in touch with your child at all times.
Safety features: Some smartwatches come with GPS tracking and SOS features, which can be helpful in keeping your child safe.
Durability: Choose a watch that is durable and can withstand rough play. autistic kids may not be aware of their surroundings and may bump into things or drop their watch.
