On May 19th, NOS published an article in which pedagogues and developmental psychologists voiced their concerns about the use of kids' smartwatches. Their message was clear: too much control hinders children's independence and resilience.
And honestly? There's a core of truth in that. Children grow through freedom, not through constant surveillance. They need to learn how to get lost. Come home a little too late. Do something that just barely wasn't allowed. That's part of growing up. That's part of building resilience. But let's tell the whole story, too.
At Rebel Cactus, we've been working for years on exactly this question: How do we encourage children to go outside more – not less? And how can technology help without taking over?
Our kids' smartwatch is the answer. Not a handcuff. Not a digital babysitter. But a small tool that gives kids the confidence to step into the world. And helps parents just enough to actually let them go.
No socials. No endless notifications. No internet.
But: You can call home. GPS is there – if you need it. And importantly: everything is optional. The GPS doesn't always have to be on. You can even turn it off completely. Think of it as the new Nokia. But on your wrist. With a few smart extras. And a much smaller chance of losing it.
We understand the concerns in the NOS article. We even share some of them.
Children need space to grow. Parents need to learn to let go.
And no, you don't need to track your child 24/7. But that doesn't mean you have to reject technology altogether.
It's all about how you use that technology.
Are you using a smartwatch to control your child? Or are you using it to help your child feel freer to explore on their own? That makes a world of difference.
For us, the smartwatch isn't a tracker in disguise.
It's an in-between-phone. No social media. No internet.
Rebel Cactus is not a device to stay in control. It's here to help you let go.
And now something new we're super proud of: BinGO!
In a few days, we're launching the BinGO app.
An app that brings outdoor play, discovery, and technology together in a fun and positive way.
In BinGO, kids are challenged to head out, find things, complete missions, and discover new places. Not online – but in the real world.
Outside, moving, with dirty knees and rosy cheeks.
With BinGO, we want to show that technology doesn't have to compete with playing outside – it can actually extend it.
That balance is exactly what we aim for at Rebel Cactus.
Because in the end, we – the NOS article and countless parents – all want the same thing: kids who head into the world with confidence.
Kids who dare to be free – and parents who dare to let go.
And if things do get a little scary? Then there's that small line back home.
Not to control – but to support. Right when it's needed.
Because no – staying inside doesn't make you resilient. Going out does.
And that watch on their wrist?
It might just be the difference between:
"Better stay home." and "Go ahead. I trust you."
