These days, there are a variety of ways to electronically track your child. You can put an app on their watch, iPad or phone or sew an AirTag in their backpack. This can help you feel better when they’re not yet old enough to expect some privacy and trust.
What about when they’re with your co-parent? Tracking a child electronically when they’re with their other parent can be problematic – even if they’re very young. That’s because then you’re essentially tracking your ex – or at least they can reasonably perceive it that way.
Why it’s not a good idea
It’s typically best to remove or disable any kind of tracking app you have when your child is with their co-parent. Your child is their responsibility during those days, so if they want to use an app while they’re at school or somewhere else, they can.
Remember that if you track your child while they’re with their co-parent, they can do the same when the child is with you. Sometimes, co-parents will include a clause in their parenting plan stating that neither will employ tracking apps for their child during the other’s custody or visitation time. This can clarify both parents’ expectations of privacy.
What if you’re concerned about where they might be?
If you feel you need a tracking app because you’re concerned about where your co-parent is taking your child, that’s something you should address in your parenting plan. For example, if you don’t want your child accompanying your co-parent to visit certain friends or relatives or don’t want them out past a specific time on a school night, that’s something you need to discuss and negotiate.
If you have a real concern about your child’s safety or well-being when they’re with your ex, that’s something you may need to address with the court. If you’ve been considering tracking your child when they’re with your ex and/or you have these more serious concerns, it’s best to get legal guidance before taking things into your own hands.