With tamper-proof parental controls, state-of-the-art monitoring for texts, social media, and more, GPS tracking, and unlimited talk and text, this safe smartphone for kids is the ultimate option for attentive parents. Plus, with plans starting at $29 per month for WiFi only, it’s accessible to most.
I’m sure most parents aren’t fond of their younger kids having a phone. I’m right there with you. But these days it’s a necessity, especially to keep in touch and keep an eye on them. The problem is that you’re basically just adding a whole new layer of danger on the digital side of things. But the Bark Phone addresses that in some pretty intuitive ways. Made specifically for kids, there are a range of wireless plans crafted with little audiences in mind. Moreover, the phone is equipped with state-of-the-art monitoring tools with built-in scanning for the dangerous stuff. It analyzes what your child is doing, for example, and sends you an alert when it detects bullying, predators, sexting, and more.
The Starter Plan has no apps, no internet and no games. You can upgrade to add features for older kids. But you also have to approve all apps and contacts. Outside of that, you also manage everything your kids can use and interact with, including setting parental controls to limit what they access. Those controls are tamper-proof, and kids cannot delete any texts without your permission. You can always see what’s happening. Real-time GPS tracking keeps you in the know about their location at all times, too.
What makes the Bark Phone a safe smartphone for kids?
I know what you’re thinking. Why give your kids a phone at all? Sometimes, you need to communicate with them directly or you just want to know where they are. Sure, you could slap a wonky GPS tracker on them or use a proprietary communication device of some kind, but phones just do it better. Not to mention, kids tend to know their way around tech like this. There’s not as much of a learning curve and they get to enjoy having their own mobile device.
Kids get unlimited talk and text according to their plans, but they can only communicate with the contacts you approve.
As for what else the Bark Phone can do, here are some of the top features:
- Website blocking
- Contact management with direct approvals from you
- Screen time management with scheduled limits
- Pause internet access at scheduled intervals or as needed
- Block access to content during the school day like YouTube and more
- Real-time GPS tracking
- Automatic shutdown when detected in a moving car (for teenagers)
- Sending and receiving of explicit images blocked
- Concerning behavior alerts, including the use of emojis and teen slang
It’s less a set-it-and-forget it deal, and more a safe and reliable tool for staying in touch with your kids. It also gives them the opportunity to take care of a mobile device that’s all their own, without emptying your wallet.



Who is it for?
Parents that want to give their kids a phone and some freedom while staying in full control of the digital environment and experiences they have. If you have a teen that’s driving, the phone automatically shuts off when it detects its in a moving vehicle.
Where to buy?
MSRP: $249 (not including monthly plans)