Why a gift card instead of a bank card
Games like Roblox and Fortnite sell in-game items and currencies, and a bank card saved on a console or phone makes it easy to spend more than planned. A gift card gives a fixed amount: when it is spent, nothing more can be bought until you add another card.
It also keeps your bank details off the child's account, and makes a simple, clear present: a set amount for the month, a reward, or a birthday gift.
Set up the account first
Most platforms have family settings where a parent manages a child account:
- PlayStation: as family manager, you set a monthly spending limit for each child; their purchases come from the family manager's wallet.
- Xbox and Windows: Microsoft Family Safety lets you set spending limits and ask for approval before purchases.
- Nintendo: in your Nintendo Account family group, you can restrict what a child account can buy on Nintendo eShop.
- Roblox: parental controls let you set a monthly spending limit and lock the settings with a PIN.
- Apple: with Family Sharing and Ask to Buy, a child's purchases need your approval.
- Google Play: with Google Family Link, you can require approval for a child's purchases.
Then add the gift card to the right account: the child's own account on Roblox or Fortnite, or the family manager's wallet on PlayStation.
Choosing the right card
Choose the card for the platform the child plays on, and for the country of that account (see which card for which country). A Roblox card does not work in Fortnite, and a PlayStation card does not work on Nintendo or Xbox.
For phones and tablets, a Google Play card (Android) or an Apple gift card (iPhone, iPad) covers apps, games and in-app purchases.
Start with a small amount: you can always add more later.
Two simple rules for kids
Explain two rules:
- Never share a code, a password or a photo of a card, even with a friend or someone who says they work for the game.
- Only redeem codes on the official website, such as roblox.com/redeem or epicgames.com/redeem, never on other pages or apps that promise free game currency.
Keep the order e-mail until the code is used.
