Tweens can be a difficult age group when it comes to purchasing gifts, but if you consider their interests, you might find some hidden inspiration. And while electronic gifts will be a definite hit with older children, batteries are not required for a surprisingly fun holiday.
So, what gifts have I purchased previously for children ages 8 to 12 and what am I considering for this year?
Gift Recommendations for Tweens
I remember my Spirograph and while I might not have played with it non-stop, I remember returning the the wheels and pencils time and again.
- 45 piece deluxe design set; 19 wheels, 2 rings, spiro-putty, 3 pens, 14 page guide book, design paper and carry along storage case
- The classic way to create countless amazing designs
- The simple geared design; allows anyone to draw elegant and artistic designs
- Designed off of the original 1965 toy; this timeless toy is a must have for anyone
- This classic toy will entertain and inspire creativity for years to come
The Gift of Love Deluxe Gift Set
A collection of art lessons and the supplies needed to complete each beautiful project would please any tween.
Get it from See the Light.
Have a young artist in your home that is always coloring or doodling? The Original DoodleArt will keep them busy for hours.
Keep minds and hands busy with these challenging puzzles. The A-Ha Brainteaser Kit is even fun for adults!
Melissa & Doug Deluxe Magic Set
I wanted this for my nephew a few years ago but they sold out really quickly.
- Amaze your friends
- Easy to learn
- Stores neatly in wooden box
- Recommended Age Range 8 Years and up
K’NEX 375 Piece Deluxe Building Set
We have a couple of K’NEX sets and they are perfect for keeping the entire family busy.
- Packed with 521 parts
- Ideas for 35 unique models for open building fun!
- Convenient storage tub
- Rods and Connectors made in the U.S.A.
- Recommended for Ages 7+
The first game with a real laser, tweens will love the challenge of arranging the mirrors to make the laser reach the target.
LEGO Ultimate Building Set – 405 Pieces (6166)
We love LEGOs in our home and keep a basket under a chair in the living room. Anytime we need a boredom buster, we pull the basket out and get creative.
- This new tub features a great assortment of LEGO bricks and elements
- Includes building plate, minifigure, windows, doors and wheels
- Includes building instructions for 5 models and photo inspiration for 25 more
- New container allows for easy clean up and efficient storage – The transparent lid lets builders display their models
- 405 Pieces
Get it at Amazon.
Little Passports USA Edition for 7-12 year olds
Have a new adventure delivered once a month. With hands-on projects and educational lessons, a gift from Little Passports keeps giving all year long.
Get it from Little Passports.
God and Me (Girls)
Gotta Have God (Boys)
The God and Me (Girls) and Gotta Have God (Boys) devotionals offer solid biblical wisdom with an age appropriate focus for 2 years through 12 years.
While we do not own this game (yet), the concept amazes me.
- An exciting balance game for 1-4 players
- Includes 24 game rods, wooden base,4 frame rods, colored die and wooden connector
- Exciting to play as a group
- An intriguing challenge when played alone
- Develops hand-eye coordination, cognitive skills and interpersonal skills
Melissa & Doug Deluxe Combo Scratch Art Set
Our children love scratch are and while it can be fascinating for any age, tweens can rediscover the sense of amazement and use their creativity to make surprising things happen.
- Features 4 sheets each of Silver Scratch & Sparkle?, Rainbow Black?, Rainbow White?, and Scratch-Lite? Stained Glass Sheets.
- Stencil with over 30 amazing shapes
- 3 Show-off easel frames
- Medium and fine point stylus, 1 frame, instructions
Be Amazing Toys Big Bag Of Science
I remember the year when my nephew wanted to be a mad scientist. Being the “perfect” aunt, I got him this set and I heard it was a big hit.
- More than 70 fascinating activities included
- Multiple award winner kit including parent choice
- Great for science fair projects
- Learn about polymers and superabsorbents
- Includes ultraviolet sensitive beads and procedures for testing sunscreen
Give your artist complete projects packaged in a jar. Containing everything you need, these jars also offer educational opportunities… but they will not know they are learning.
My children love Knock-Knock jokes but they come up with some really strange original combinations. A book like this will help them understand humor and get reading practice too.
Tinkertoy Super Tink Building Set
Tinkertoys for tweens? Yes. Actually, anything related to construction or engineering is a great idea.
- Build a skyscraper, fighter jet, getaway car, or imagine your own heroic adventure!
- 150 durable, plastic pieces including spools, rods, wings, eyes, Super Tink buildable figure AND new panel pieces!
- 15 building ideas
- Sturdy box with lid for storage and portability
- Recommended for builders ages 3 to 15
Skywalker Trampolines 12-Feet Round Trampoline and Enclosure with Spring Pad
I know that trampolines make parents nervous but the trampoline in our backyard is dearly loved. Not only is it the perfect place to get rid of extra energy, the trampoline becomes a getaway when the younger siblings are getting to annoying (since they cannot climb up without help.)
KidKraft Sparkle Mansion Dollhouse
Almost every girl dreams of a big dollhouse and the Sparkle Mansion from KidKraft will make those dream come true.
Looking for a gift that is not a toy or electronic? How about a magazine subscription to Highlights Magazine so they are treated to a new gift every month.
Get it from Highlights.com.
Need more gift ideas for tweens?
I keep a running list of gift ideas when I see something terrific for tweens on Pinterest.
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