Gabb Wireless Inc. has created phones and watches that have a GPS tracker for parents as well as limited functions. Children have a contact list that can be edited and updated by parents, and if a number is not in the child’s phone, that number cannot be called. There is also no Internet or App Store on the device, so children will not have access to inappropriate material.
Gabb is a great option for parents who want to be able to get in touch with their child but feel as though their child is too young to have full access to the Internet. Data shows that there are harmful and negative impacts of social media for children. These impacts directly impact children’s health in a multitude of ways, both socially and emotionally.
Teens are two times more likely to be diagnosed with depression if they spend 7+ hours per day on devices compared to those who spent 1 hour a day (Gabb Wireless Inc., 2024).
71% of teens are more at risk of suicide when spending 5+ hours per day on a device (Gabb Wireless Inc., 2024).
1.2 years of a child’s life from age 13-18 will be spent on social media (Gabb Wireless Inc., 2024).
1 in 5 youth were contacted in a sexual way online (Gabb Wireless Inc., 2024).
82% of online sex crimes start with social media (Gabb Wireless Inc., 2024).
These are serious issues that parents need to think about, consider, and take action to help prevent. A great way to do this is by implementing a technology option in your household that is geared towards protecting your child.