Gift Ideas For Tweens (Kids Ages 8 - 12)

Finding gift ideas for tweens (ages 8 – 12) can be tough. They are too old for toys but not yet old enough for “boring” adult types of gifts. What in the world do you get them?

Since all three of my kids are in this age group, I get the struggle. I’ve created a list of gift ideas my own kids have had over the years. That makes this list of gift ideas for kids ages 8 – 12 100% kid approved!

More incredible gift ideas:

TWEEN GIFT IDEAS

Art set

All of my kids love to draw and color. Don’t get them the younger versions, but a nicer set. Our oldest received this wooden art set last year and she loves it. In fact, her younger sister has now asked for one this year.

Knitting set

If you know someone who wants to learn to knit, a gift with a book to teach them how to knit, yarn and kids’ knitting needles would make the perfect gift.

Games

As they get older, kids want more challenging games. Here are a few ideas:

Tin Can Robot

My kids have all been asking me for one of these Tin Can Robots. They think they look like a LOT of fun!

Subscription Box

There are a lot of really interesting subscription boxes available for kids of all ages. You can find them for science, cooking, reading and more! Check out some of the best subscription boxes you will want to get for your kids this year.

Craft Jewelry Set

This is perfect for the child who loves jewelry and crafts. You can find sets to beaded jewelry, bracelets — and more!

LEGO Sets

It seems no matter the age, LEGOs are always popular. You might look for the more difficult sets or even the 3-in-1 versions to allow a little more creativity and challenge. Keep your eye on sets at Walmart as we often see holiday discounts.

Extreme Dot-to-Dot Books

This is probably one of my daughter’s favorite things to do. These books have dot-to-dot puzzles that number into the hundreds! They take a lot longer and there is more of a challenge to do them. Definitely a LOT of fun. Best of all, there are all sorts of books available (these make perfect stocking stuffers).

Teach them to Draw

Kids love to draw. However, they don’t want to draw the stick people anymore. They want to draw like “a grown up.” This fun Draw Like a Pro kit helps them draw the figures they want.

If your child is a bit older, get them a book, sketch pad, and pencils to encourage their love of art.

Magformers or Magnatiles

All three of my kids have had fun with Magformers and Magnatiles. They allow for hours of creative fun.

Snap Circuts

Snap Circuits make a fun gift idea for just about kid who loves science and engineering. They can create their own circuit boards.

Drone

Have you played with a Drone before? Some of them are absolutely amazing. Check out those that connect via Bluetooth so you can watch the action right on your phone.

Bikes

All three of my kids spend hours outside riding their bikes. They get exercise but still have fun! Make sure not to forget the helmet too!

Sports equipment

New sporting goods equipment is a great way to get them what they need while giving them what they want. It might mean soccer cleats, basketball goal, or even a baseball bat.

Watch

My kids absolutely love wearing a watch. While digital is convenient, picking up an analog watch teaches them how to tell time!

Gaming Table

This is one that even mom and dad will probably enjoy. There are a lot of really awesome table games that you can find. There are gaming tables that work for any budget.

Hoverboard

Still a huge hit amongst the kids! Just be careful about the hoverboards – some of those batteries worry me. So do your homework and check reviews for the top-rated hoverboards.

Craft Kits

My youngest loves to do crafts! She asked me for a big bucket of craft supplies so she could create whatever she wanted. Other ideas include charm sets, wind chime crafts, and more.

Nerf Guns

We have fun Nerf Guns these as a family! Get one for each person and get outside and have a Nerf war. Definitely a kid favorite.

Movies

We love a good movie night. There are so many older titles in the store that are still fun to watch. You could create your own movie night box complete with a new movie, popcorn, snacks, and CapriSun.

Ripstick

A Ripstick is another fun outdoor toy that kids love! Once again, make sure you add in the helmet and knee pads.

Digital Camera

Kids love to take pictures! Give them a new digital camera or even one of the fun Instax cameras (which print pictures instantly) makes the perfect gift!

Cash – But in a Fun Way

This money maze is a fun way to give the gift of cash. The kids must solve the puzzle before getting the money hidden inside.

3Doodler

We purchased a 3Doodler for my son for his birthday and it is SO much fun! Kids can create their own creatures and other creations – in 3D form! Just make sure you get the additional filaments so that they don’t run out.

Tablet

As kids get older, they will more than likely want some type of a tablet. You can start them off with a Kindle Fire as it is more affordable. If your kids are a bit younger, you may want to go with the Kids Fire tablet instead. But, whichever option you choose, a good protective case is a must.

Kit to Assemble

Last year, we gave our son a kit to build a ukulele kit and he loved it! Something like this marble coaster is also a fun idea to get your kids using their brains when they play with it!