Top 10 Best Gift Cards for Kids (Fun, Safe & Loved by Parents)

Gift cards are the ultimate win for kids and parents alike. Kids get the joy of choosing their own toys, games, snacks, or clothes, while parents avoid the hassle of returns or duplicates. From versatile prepaid cards to brand-specific favorites, here's our expert guide to the best gift cards for kids—including which ones they'll love and how to make sure they're easy to use.

1. Visa & Mastercard Gift Cards

These flexible cards can be used nearly anywhere and give kids the freedom to shop online or in-store. You can even personalize them with their name or photo. They're perfect when you're unsure of what the child is currently into.

2. Toy Store Gift Cards

Classic fun never goes out of style. Toy store cards like LEGO, Target, Build-A-Bear, and American Girl let kids fuel their imaginations, build, create, and play with their favorite brands.

3. Gaming Gift Cards

Whether it's Roblox, Nintendo, Xbox, PlayStation, or GameStop, gaming cards are a go-to for kids who love screen time. These cards can be used to buy games, accessories, and in-game currency.

4. Clothing Gift Cards

Today's kids love expressing themselves through fashion. Gift cards to brands like Gap, Abercrombie, The Children's Place, or Zappos help them pick outfits that fit their unique style—without the pressure of returns.

5. Food & Entertainment Gift Cards

Restaurants like Chuck E. Cheese and Dave & Buster's offer food plus fun. Add in sweet options like Cold Stone Creamery or immersive spots like Rainforest Café for experiences they won't forget.

6. Hobby Gift Cards

Encourage reading with a Barnes & Noble card or spark creativity with a Michaels gift card. These hobby cards inspire kids to explore, learn, and create.

7. Sports & Activity Gift Cards

For active kids, try Adidas, Under Armour, or Fanatics cards for gear—or StubHub for tickets to live events. These gifts support healthy habits and team spirit.

8. Movie Gift Cards

Movie cards are a classic win for birthdays and holidays. Whether it's AMC, Regal, or Fandango, kids can enjoy the latest animated blockbuster—plus popcorn and snacks.

9. Theme Park Gift Cards

Theme park gift cards like Disney or SeaWorld don't just cover admission—they also let kids pick out food, souvenirs, and fun extras in the park. Great for budgeting and vacation planning.

10. Giving Good Gift Cards

These unique cards allow kids to shop while also giving back. A portion of the balance supports charities like Make-A-Wish or Feeding America. It's a great way to teach generosity early on.

Rules for Giving Gift Cards to Kids

Rule #1:

Kids shouldn't need their own money to use the card. Choose cards that cover the full cost of a toy, meal, or item.

Rule #2:

Gift cards should be easy to use. Pick brands with nearby locations or strong online stores.

Rule #3:

Choose brands with a wide variety of kid-friendly items. Too few or too many options can make shopping frustrating.

Rule #4:

Bonus if parents like the store too. That means they're more likely to take kids to redeem the card—or even swap it themselves if needed.

Conclusion

Whether you're shopping for a birthday, holiday, or just a surprise treat, gift cards offer a fun and flexible option for kids of all ages. From playtime to mealtime, these cards put the power of choice in your child's hands—while giving parents peace of mind.