ToysAges 9-12
Best Gifts for Tweens (Ages 9-12)
When toys start feeling babyish
Updated June 11, 2026
Hardest age to shop for. Toys feel young, real grown-up gear feels too soon. We focused on hobbies kids stick with: cooking, photography, building, reading thick books, beating their parents at strategy games.
Polaroid Now+ Generation 2
Real Polaroid camera with app-controlled filters. Tweens love instant prints; cheap film keeps the habit alive.
$119.99Target
LEGO Botanical Collection Bird of Paradise
Designed for older builders. 1,173 pieces, ten-hour build, looks like an actual plant when done.
$119.99Amazon
Catan Board Game
The gateway strategy game. Once a kid plays Catan they will play Catan with you for years.
$49.99Target
Kano Computer Kit Touch
Build your own tablet, learn what is inside a computer. Hands-on coding.
$199.99Amazon
Lego Star Wars Ultimate Millennium Falcon
The crown jewel of LEGO sets. For the kid who wants a real long-term project.
$849.99Amazon
Cuisinart EasyPop Hot Air Popcorn Maker
Kid-safe (no oil) and they will use it weekly. Good kitchen on-ramp.
$49.99Walmart
Calliope Books The Hobbit Pocket Edition
Thick enough to be impressive, accessible enough to finish.
$14.99Amazon
Yoto Player Audiobook Device
Card-based audiobook player without a screen. Quiet hours of stories.
$99.99Target
Crayola Art with Edge Hand Lettering Kit
Kit with markers, pen practice book, real chalk pens. Tween-coded design.
$24.99Walmart
Razor MX350 Dirt Rocket Electric Bike
Twenty-four-volt off-road electric, top speed 14 mph. For families with yard space.
$379.99Walmart
Klutz LEGO Chain Reactions Craft Kit
Combine LEGO with chain-reaction physics. Builds get reused as parts of bigger contraptions.
$24.99Amazon
Some products in this guide are sponsored placements. Elowish may earn a commission on purchases made through links on this page. This does not affect the price you pay. All product selections are editorial.