Choosing the perfect gift for tweens can be a delightful yet challenging task. Tweens, typically defined as children between the ages of 9 and 12, are at a unique stage where they are transitioning from childhood to adolescence. Their interests can be diverse and rapidly changing, making it essential to find gifts that are both engaging and age-appropriate. This comprehensive guide aims to help you navigate the world of tween gifts by exploring various categories, including technology, books, fashion, outdoor activities, arts and crafts, and more. Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, holiday, or special occasion, this guide will provide you with a wealth of ideas to delight and inspire the tweens in your life.
Top Picks
- Put your creativity on display with these temporary body art markers for skin—now in refreshed packaging, with the same fun product inside
- Draw freehand or incorporate BodyMark tattoo stencils to customize your design and create non-permanent body art that’s uniquely you
- Expressing yourself with temporary skin art is fun and easy with BodyMark because the ink dries quickly (reducing smudges) and is water resistant
- Create bright, colorful temporary tattoos that can last for days and are easy to remove with soap and water
- Designed for writing and drawing on skin, these markers are skin-safe* and of cosmetic quality, adhering to US FDA regulations *Complies with cosmetic regulations. Follow all warnings and instructions. Not tested on sensitive skin
- Watch your nail designs glow in the dark
- Create long lasting designs with the professional quality nail polish
- The 2 tip nail polish pen has a brush on one end for painting the nail or filling in shapes and a precision tip on the other end for sketching designs
- Includes 5 Sketch It Nail Pen colors, including 3 glow in the dark, black and silver
- Recommended for children 8 years of age and older
- Prefontaine, M (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 79 Pages - 05/17/2017 (Publication Date) - CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (Publisher)
Categories of Gifts for Tweens
Technology and Gadgets
Smartphones and Tablets Many tweens are ready for their first smartphone or tablet. These devices not only offer entertainment but also educational apps and tools for communication. Brands like Apple, Samsung, and Amazon offer a range of options suitable for tweens.
Portable Game Consoles Portable game consoles like the Nintendo Switch or the PlayStation Vita provide endless hours of entertainment. These devices are perfect for gaming on the go and often come with a variety of kid-friendly games.
Wearable Tech Wearable tech such as smartwatches and fitness trackers can be both fun and practical. Devices like the Fitbit Ace or the Apple Watch SE help tweens track their activity, set fitness goals, and stay connected with friends and family.
Headphones and Earbuds High-quality headphones or earbuds are great gifts for tweens who love music, podcasts, or audiobooks. Brands like JBL, Sony, and Apple offer options with excellent sound quality and comfortable designs.
Drones and Robotics Kits For tech-savvy tweens, drones and robotics kits provide an exciting and educational experience. Products like the DJI Mini SE drone or the LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor Kit allow tweens to explore engineering, coding, and problem-solving.
Books and Literature
Popular Book Series A captivating book series can ignite a tween’s passion for reading. Series like “Harry Potter” by J.K. Rowling, “Percy Jackson” by Rick Riordan, and “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins are perennial favorites.
Graphic Novels and Comics Graphic novels and comics combine engaging stories with vivid illustrations. Titles like “Dog Man” by Dav Pilkey, “Amulet” by Kazu Kibuishi, and “Naruto” by Masashi Kishimoto are popular among tweens.
Educational and Non-Fiction Books Educational and non-fiction books can satisfy a tween’s curiosity about the world. Topics like science, history, and technology are often explored in books like “National Geographic Kids” series and “Women in Science” by Rachel Ignotofsky.
Journals and Creative Writing Books Encouraging creativity through writing can be a wonderful gift. Journals, sketchbooks, and creative writing guides like “Wreck This Journal” by Keri Smith can inspire tweens to express themselves and develop their writing skills.
Audiobooks and E-Readers For tweens who prefer listening to stories, audiobooks are a fantastic option. Devices like the Kindle Paperwhite can store hundreds of e-books, making it easy for tweens to access a variety of literature.
Fashion and Accessories
Clothing and Shoes Trendy clothing and shoes are always a hit with tweens who are beginning to develop their own style. Brands like Nike, H&M, and Zara offer stylish and comfortable options suitable for this age group.
Jewelry and Watches Jewelry and watches can make tweens feel grown-up and stylish. Simple and age-appropriate pieces from brands like Claire’s, Alex and Ani, or Fossil are perfect for this age group.
Backpacks and Bags A cool backpack or bag is both practical and fashionable. Brands like Herschel, JanSport, and Fjällräven offer stylish and durable options that tweens will love to carry to school or on trips.
Hats and Accessories Hats, scarves, and other accessories can add a fun touch to a tween’s wardrobe. Beanies, caps, and headbands from brands like Vans, Adidas, and Under Armour are popular choices.
Personalized Items Personalized clothing and accessories, such as monogrammed hoodies or custom-made jewelry, make thoughtful and unique gifts. Websites like Etsy offer a variety of personalized items that can be tailored to a tween’s preferences.
Outdoor and Sports Equipment
Bikes and Scooters Bikes and scooters provide endless outdoor fun and exercise. Brands like Razor, Schwinn, and Mongoose offer a variety of models suited for different skill levels and preferences.
Skateboards and Rollerblades Skateboards and rollerblades are great for active tweens who love a bit of adventure. Brands like Element, Santa Cruz, and Rollerblade offer high-quality options for beginners and advanced users.
Sports Gear Sports gear such as basketballs, soccer balls, and baseball gloves are perfect for tweens involved in team sports. Brands like Nike, Adidas, and Wilson offer reliable and durable equipment.
Camping and Outdoor Gear For tweens who enjoy the great outdoors, camping and hiking gear make excellent gifts. Items like sleeping bags, tents, and backpacks from brands like Coleman, REI, and The North Face are perfect for outdoor adventures.
Fitness Equipment Fitness equipment like yoga mats, dumbbells, and resistance bands can help tweens stay active and healthy. Brands like Gaiam, Bowflex, and TRX offer kid-friendly options.
Arts and Crafts
Art Supplies High-quality art supplies can inspire creativity and provide endless hours of fun. Brands like Crayola, Prismacolor, and Faber-Castell offer a range of products including markers, colored pencils, and paint sets.
Craft Kits Craft kits are great for tweens who love to make things. Kits for jewelry making, knitting, and model building from brands like Klutz, Creativity for Kids, and LEGO can provide hours of creative fun.
DIY Projects DIY project kits encourage hands-on learning and creativity. Projects like build-your-own birdhouses, model rockets, and science experiments from brands like Thames & Kosmos and 4M are educational and engaging.
Sewing and Knitting Kits Sewing and knitting kits can introduce tweens to new skills and hobbies. Brands like Sew Mini Treats, Stitch & Story, and Lion Brand Yarn offer beginner-friendly kits with easy-to-follow instructions.
Photography and Video Equipment For tweens interested in photography and videography, equipment like cameras, tripods, and editing software can be a fantastic gift. Brands like Canon, GoPro, and Adobe offer products suitable for beginners.
Games and Toys
Board Games Board games are a classic gift that can be enjoyed with family and friends. Popular options for tweens include “Catan,” “Ticket to Ride,” and “Pandemic.”
Puzzles Puzzles are great for developing problem-solving skills and providing a fun challenge. Brands like Ravensburger, Buffalo Games, and Melissa & Doug offer a variety of puzzles ranging from 500 to 1000 pieces.
STEM Toys STEM toys encourage learning in science, technology, engineering, and math. Products like the Osmo Genius Kit, Snap Circuits, and Kano Computer Kit are both educational and entertaining.
Building Sets Building sets like LEGO and K’NEX allow tweens to create and construct. These sets come in various themes and complexity levels, catering to different interests and skills.
Remote Control Toys Remote control toys such as cars, drones, and boats provide interactive fun. Brands like Traxxas, DJI, and Air Hogs offer high-quality options suitable for tweens.
Music and Instruments
Musical Instruments Learning a musical instrument can be a rewarding experience for tweens. Instruments like keyboards, guitars, and ukuleles from brands like Yamaha, Fender, and Kala are great for beginners.
Music Lessons Music lessons can help tweens develop their musical skills and confidence. Consider gifting lessons from a local music school or online platforms like Lessonface and TakeLessons.
Music Accessories Accessories like headphones, sheet music stands, and instrument cases are practical gifts for musically inclined tweens. Brands like K&M, Hercules, and Gator offer reliable options.
Karaoke Machines Karaoke machines provide endless entertainment for tweens who love to sing. Brands like Singing Machine, KaraoKing, and Memorex offer user-friendly and fun options.
Recording Equipment For tweens interested in recording their music, equipment like microphones, audio interfaces, and recording software can be a fantastic gift. Brands like Blue Microphones, Focusrite, and Audacity offer beginner-friendly products.
Educational and Learning
Science Kits Science kits can spark a tween’s curiosity and love for learning. Kits for chemistry, physics, and biology from brands like Thames & Kosmos, National Geographic, and Learning Resources are both educational and fun.
Coding and Robotics Kits Coding and robotics kits teach valuable skills in a fun and interactive way. Products like the Sphero BOLT, LEGO Mindstorms, and Kano Computer Kit allow tweens to explore programming and engineering.
Language Learning Language learning tools can open up new opportunities for tweens. Apps, books, and online courses from platforms like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel make learning a new language engaging and accessible.
Educational Games Educational games combine learning and play. Games like “Brain Quest,” “Scrabble,” and “Math for Love Prime Climb” are designed to make learning fun and interactive.
Subscription Boxes Educational subscription boxes deliver new learning experiences each month. Services like KiwiCo, Little Passports, and Mel Science provide hands-on projects and activities that inspire curiosity and creativity.
Comparison Table
| Category | Example Gift Ideas | Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Technology and Gadgets | Smartphones, Tablets, Portable Game Consoles, Wearable Tech, Headphones, Drones | Apple, Samsung, Nintendo, Fitbit, JBL, DJI |
| Books and Literature | Popular Book Series, Graphic Novels, Educational Books, Journals, Audiobooks | Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, National Geographic Kids, Kindle |
| Fashion and Accessories | Clothing, Shoes, Jewelry, Watches, Backpacks, Personalized Items | Nike, H&M, Claire’s, Fossil, JanSport, Etsy |
| Outdoor and Sports Equipment | Bikes, Scooters, Skateboards, Sports Gear, Camping Gear, Fitness Equipment | Razor, Schwinn, Nike, Coleman, Gaiam |
| Arts and Crafts | Art Supplies, Craft Kits, DIY Projects, Sewing Kits, Photography Equipment | Crayola, Klutz, Thames & Kosmos, Sew Mini Treats, Canon |
| Games and Toys | Board Games, Puzzles, STEM Toys, Building Sets, Remote Control Toys | Catan, Ravensburger, Osmo, LEGO, Traxxas |
| Music and Instruments | Musical Instruments, Music Lessons, Accessories, Karaoke Machines, Recording Equipment | Yamaha, Lessonface, K&M, Singing Machine, Blue Microphones |
| Educational and Learning | Science Kits, Coding Kits, Language Learning Tools, Educational Games, Subscription Boxes | Thames & Kosmos, Sphero, Duolingo, Brain Quest, KiwiCo |
Best Gifts For Tweens
Apple iPad Mini The Apple iPad Mini is a versatile and powerful device perfect for tweens. Its compact size makes it easy to handle, and it offers access to a wide range of educational apps, games, and books. The high-resolution display and long battery life make it ideal for both learning and entertainment. With features like FaceTime, iMessage, and parental controls, it’s a safe and engaging choice for tweens.
Nintendo Switch The Nintendo Switch is a popular gaming console that offers both handheld and docked modes, making it perfect for gaming at home or on the go. With a vast library of family-friendly games like “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” and “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe,” it’s a great gift for tweens who love video games. The ability to play with friends online or in person adds to its appeal.
Fitbit Ace 3 The Fitbit Ace 3 is a kid-friendly fitness tracker that encourages tweens to stay active. It tracks steps, active minutes, and sleep patterns, providing insights into their health and fitness. The durable design and fun interface make it appealing to tweens, while parental controls and reminders help maintain healthy habits.
LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor Kit The LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor Kit is an advanced robotics kit that allows tweens to build and program their robots. It includes over 900 pieces and offers five different robot designs, along with a variety of sensors and motors. The accompanying app provides step-by-step instructions and coding challenges, making it an educational and fun gift for tech-savvy tweens.
Harry Potter Box Set The Harry Potter Box Set by J.K. Rowling is a timeless gift for tweens who love reading. The complete seven-book series takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the magical world of Hogwarts. The captivating storylines, memorable characters, and imaginative settings make it a beloved series that tweens will enjoy for years to come.
Vans Classic Slip-On Sneakers The Vans Classic Slip-On Sneakers are stylish and comfortable shoes that tweens will love. The slip-on design makes them easy to wear, and the durable canvas material ensures long-lasting use. Available in various colors and patterns, these sneakers can complement any tween’s wardrobe and provide a cool, casual look.
Razor A5 Lux Scooter The Razor A5 Lux Scooter is a high-quality scooter designed for tweens. It features a sturdy aluminum frame, large wheels for a smooth ride, and an adjustable handlebar to accommodate growing kids. The foldable design makes it easy to carry and store, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and commuting to school.
Crayola Inspiration Art Case The Crayola Inspiration Art Case is a comprehensive art set that includes a variety of crayons, markers, colored pencils, and paper. The portable case makes it easy to keep art supplies organized and accessible. This set is perfect for creative tweens who love to draw, color, and create their masterpieces.
Catan Board Game The Catan Board Game is a popular strategy game that encourages critical thinking and social interaction. Players collect resources and build settlements, cities, and roads to dominate the island of Catan. The game is easy to learn but offers endless replayability, making it a great gift for tweens and their families.
Yamaha YPT-260 Portable Keyboard The Yamaha YPT-260 Portable Keyboard is an excellent choice for tweens interested in learning to play music. It features 61 full-sized keys, a variety of instrument voices, and built-in lessons to help beginners get started. The portable design makes it easy to move and store, and the high-quality sound ensures an enjoyable playing experience.
Thames & Kosmos Chem C1000 Chemistry Set The Thames & Kosmos Chem C1000 Chemistry Set is an educational and engaging gift for tweens interested in science. The kit includes over 75 experiments that explore various chemistry concepts, from acids and bases to chemical reactions. The detailed manual provides clear instructions and explanations, making it a fun and informative learning experience.
Sphero BOLT Coding Robot The Sphero BOLT Coding Robot is a versatile and interactive tool for teaching coding and robotics. The robot can be programmed using the Sphero Edu app, which offers various coding challenges and activities. With features like a programmable LED matrix, infrared sensors, and a waterproof shell, the BOLT provides endless opportunities for creative learning and play.
Duolingo Language Learning App The Duolingo Language Learning App is a fantastic gift for tweens interested in learning a new language. The app offers lessons in various languages, including Spanish, French, German, and more. The gamified approach makes learning fun and engaging, and the app’s progress tracking helps users stay motivated.
KiwiCo Tinker Crate Subscription Box The KiwiCo Tinker Crate Subscription Box delivers monthly STEM projects that inspire creativity and learning. Each crate includes a hands-on project, detailed instructions, and additional activities to explore scientific concepts. The subscription service provides tweens with new and exciting challenges each month, making it a gift that keeps on giving.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect gift for tweens involves considering their interests, hobbies, and developmental needs. Whether you choose technology and gadgets, books and literature, fashion and accessories, outdoor and sports equipment, arts and crafts, games and toys, music and instruments, or educational and learning tools, the key is to select items that are engaging, age-appropriate, and encourage growth and creativity. This comprehensive guide provides a wide range of ideas to help you find the best gifts for the tweens in your life, ensuring that they receive thoughtful and enjoyable presents that they will cherish.
