Half of Scottish parents would GPS their children

Over half of Scottish parents (51%) would enable the GPS tracker on their children’s phone so they know exactly where they are, according to a survey by charity CHILDREN 1ST.

Parents were asked for their views on letting children under 12 play outside unsupervised bv the charity, who were looking at parental attitudes to risk.

Whilst acknowledging that technology such as GPS tracking has many benefits, the charity warns against over-reliance on such measures and says there’s no substitute for face-to-face communication with your child and setting boundaries to build trust.

Jill Cook, manager of ParentLine Scotland, the free, confidential helpline and email service provided by CHILDREN 1ST,  said: “In some instances technology such as mobile phones can be a good support but it should never replace good parenting.

“It’s people that are responsible for children’s safety. Therefore it’s important that parents talk to their children about where they’re going, who they’re going with and when they’ll be home. Setting boundaries, like a time to be home, is not about ruining their fun, but about being responsible parents and building trust.

“Using a mobile phone allows teenagers to negotiate more freedom, as they check in regularly with their parents to let  them know where they are.”

Reasons cited for not letting children under 12 play unsupervised included risk from traffic (35%) and risk from strangers (33%), even though research shows most children may be more at risk of being abused by someone they know.

Jill added: “It is encouraging that two-thirds of parents surveyed (62%) agreed that children should be allowed to develop their own independence and parents should trust they won’t put themselves at risk. In the long run children have to learn how to keep themselves safe, and the best way to do that is by having direct, open communication with those who love them.”

She urged anyone with a concern about a child – no problem is too big or small – to contact ParentLine Scotland. The helpline is free, confidential and anonymous. Call on 08000 28 22 33 or email [email protected].