Quick Answer
Teach kids GPS navigation by starting with paper maps, introducing handheld GPS devices, and progressing to smartphone apps like GPS tracks or mapping apps, emphasizing route planning, triangulation, and dead reckoning.
Learning the Basics
Teach your kids the fundamental concepts of navigation, such as orientation (using a compass or a digital compass app), scale, and symbols on a map. Start with a simple paper map, pointing out the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west), and explain how to use a protractor to measure angles. Practice reading maps together, identifying features like roads, rivers, and landmarks.
Hands-On Practice with Handheld GPS Devices
Once your kids have a solid understanding of map basics, introduce handheld GPS devices or dedicated GPS watches. Familiarize them with the device’s interface, explaining how to set waypoints, track routes, and follow GPS tracks. For younger kids, consider using a GPS device with a simplified interface or a dedicated GPS app for smartphones. Encourage your kids to create and follow their own routes, practicing triangulation and dead reckoning.
Smartphone Apps and Route Planning
As your kids gain experience with handheld GPS devices, introduce smartphone apps like GPS tracks or mapping apps. These apps often offer more advanced features, such as route planning, turn-by-turn directions, and real-time tracking. Teach your kids how to use these apps to plan and follow routes, emphasizing the importance of creating backup plans and checking the battery life of their devices. Practice using these apps in different environments, such as urban or wilderness areas, to help your kids develop their navigation skills in diverse settings.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.