How to Share Minecraft with Kids: A Comprehensive Guide
Sharing the world of Minecraft with your kids is a fantastic way to foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and even social interaction. However, navigating the licensing and technical aspects can be a bit tricky. The core principle to remember is that each player ideally needs their own Minecraft account for the best and most compliant experience, especially when playing together online. Here’s a breakdown of how to share the Minecraft experience with your children:
The most straightforward method is to purchase Minecraft for each child on their own account. This ensures they have full access to the game and its features, including online multiplayer. Consider setting up a family account through platforms like Microsoft or Apple, allowing you to manage their accounts, set parental controls, and potentially share purchases. For younger children, utilizing Minecraft Realms or private servers is an excellent way to control the online environment and ensure a safe and engaging experience.
Understanding Minecraft Editions and Accounts
Before diving into sharing options, it’s crucial to understand the two primary editions of Minecraft:
- Minecraft: Java Edition: This is the original version, primarily played on computers (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Minecraft: Bedrock Edition: This version is available on Windows 10/11, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android devices.
These editions are not cross-compatible for multiplayer without third-party workarounds. A player on Bedrock cannot directly join a Java server, and vice versa. Each edition requires a separate purchase. Ensure you buy the correct version based on the devices your kids will be using. Each individual must have their own Microsoft account to use the Bedrock Edition.
Methods for Sharing Minecraft with Your Kids
1. Individual Accounts for Each Child
This is the recommended and most straightforward approach. Each child gets their own Minecraft account, granting them full access to all features, including:
- Online Multiplayer: Join public servers or play with friends.
- Personalized Experience: Create their own worlds, characters, and settings.
- Access to all Content: Mods, texture packs, and other add-ons.
While this is the most expensive option, it avoids potential licensing issues and ensures each child has a truly independent experience.
2. Family Sharing on Apple Devices
If your children use Apple devices (iPhones, iPads), Apple’s Family Sharing feature allows you to share app purchases, including Minecraft. If you, as the “Organizer” of the family sharing group, purchase Minecraft on your iOS device, each member in the group can download their own copy without needing your Apple ID and password.
How to set it up:
- Enable Family Sharing in your Apple ID settings.
- Add your children as members of the family group.
- Ensure that “Share My Purchases” is enabled.
3. Family Library on Google Play
Similar to Apple’s Family Sharing, the Google Play Family Library lets you share purchased apps with family members on Android devices. For Minecraft: Bedrock Edition, navigate to “My Apps & Games” within the game’s details page in the Google Play Store and enable “Family Library.”
4. Realm Subscription
Minecraft Realms are private, invitation-only servers hosted by Mojang (the developers of Minecraft). They offer a safe and controlled environment for kids to play together with friends and family.
Benefits:
- Simplified Multiplayer: Easy setup and management of a private server.
- Parental Control: Control who can join the Realm.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility (Bedrock Edition): Play with friends on different devices.
- You can invite a friend to play on your Realm using a Share Link
Drawbacks:
- Monthly Subscription Fee: Realms require a recurring monthly payment.
- Limited Number of Players: Realms typically support up to 10 players.
5. Using the Same Account (Limited Functionality)
While technically possible, using the same Minecraft account on multiple devices is not recommended for simultaneous play. Only one device can be active in online play at a time. Other devices can be in single-player mode, but cannot join servers or Realms. This method is also a violation of the Minecraft Terms of Service, so you could have your account banned. It’s best to avoid this method altogether.
6. Local Area Network (LAN) Play
If your children are on the same local network (connected to the same Wi-Fi), they can play together using LAN. One player creates a world and opens it to LAN, and the other players can join using their own Minecraft accounts and devices on the same network.
Important Considerations for LAN Play:
- Same Minecraft Edition: All players must be using the same edition (Java or Bedrock).
- Version Compatibility: All players should be using the same version of Minecraft with all available updates.
- Firewall Settings: Ensure that your firewall isn’t blocking Minecraft from accessing the network.
7. Setting up a Private Server
For advanced users, setting up a private Minecraft server on a computer or using a hosting service is an option. This gives you complete control over the server settings, mods, and players allowed to join. However, this requires technical knowledge and ongoing maintenance.
Parental Controls and Safety
Regardless of the sharing method you choose, it’s crucial to implement parental controls and safety measures to ensure your children have a positive and secure experience.
- Microsoft Family Account: Use Microsoft Family features to manage your child’s account, set screen time limits, and control spending.
- Privacy Settings: Adjust privacy settings in Minecraft to limit communication with strangers.
- Moderation on Servers and Realms: Actively monitor your child’s activity on servers and Realms and address any inappropriate behavior.
The Educational Value of Minecraft
Minecraft is more than just a game; it’s a powerful tool for learning and development. It fosters creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and even basic coding skills. If you’re interested in learning more about the educational applications of games, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. This organization explores the intersection of games, learning, and education.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I have to buy Minecraft for each of my kids?
Yes, ideally each child should have their own Minecraft account for the best experience, especially for online multiplayer. However, Family Sharing options on Apple and Google Play offer a way to share a single purchase among family members on their respective devices.
2. Can two kids play Minecraft on the same account?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Only one person can actively play online at a time on a single account. It’s best to get each child their own account.
3. Can siblings share a Minecraft account using Family Sharing?
Yes, Family Sharing on Apple and Google Play allows siblings within the same family group to share a purchased copy of Minecraft on their respective devices.
4. How do I allow my kids to play Minecraft together safely?
Use Minecraft Realms or set up a private server to control the online environment and limit interactions with strangers.
5. What’s the cheapest way to play Minecraft with kids?
The Minecraft Pocket Edition (mobile version) is generally the most affordable option for a single player. However, keep in mind that each player will still need their own license to join the same world.
6. Is there a monthly fee for Minecraft?
The base game is a one-time purchase. However, Minecraft Realms require a monthly subscription fee. There are also optional in-game purchases for skins, texture packs, and other add-ons.
7. Can you share Minecraft in a family library?
Yes, you can use Family Sharing on Apple devices and Family Library on Google Play to share Minecraft with family members.
8. How do I invite a friend to play on my Realm?
In Minecraft, select “Play,” then “Edit” next to the Realm, then “Members,” and finally “Share Link.” Share this link with your friend.
9. Can my friend and I play Minecraft together if we’re not on the same network?
Yes, you can play together using Minecraft Realms, public servers, or by setting up a private server.
10. Can I play Minecraft on two devices without buying it twice?
Not simultaneously for online play. Each device needs its own license for simultaneous online access, although Family Sharing can help with downloads.
11. Why can’t me and my friend play Minecraft together?
Make sure you’re both on the same edition (Java or Bedrock), the same version of the game, and that your firewall isn’t blocking the connection.
12. Do you need two accounts to play Minecraft together on the same PC?
Yes, to play simultaneously, each player needs a separate Minecraft account.
13. Do you need to buy Minecraft for each account on PC?
Yes, each person that plays the game will need to purchase the game in order to play.
14. Is Minecraft a one time purchase or subscription?
Buying Minecraft requires a one-time purchase for the account, although Realms require a subscription fee.
15. Can I play Minecraft with my friend on the same account?
Yes, you can both log in to the same account and play singleplayer or multiplayer (on different servers).