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15 Gift Ideas for Tweens: Surprise them with Love

Finding the perfect gift for tweens can be a bit tricky; they’re not quite kids, but they’re not yet teens. This in-between stage is filled with excitement, curiosity, and budding passions. If you’re on the hunt for something that will truly wow the 11 or 12-year-old in your life, look no further! From tech gadgets to creative DIY kits, we’ve got you covered with top picks for every tween’s wish list. Be it a birthday surprise or a special Christmas gift, these 15 handpicked ideas will show them just how much you care because nothing says love like a thoughtful gift. So, let’s uncover gift ideas for tweens.

1. Art Supplies Set

vibrant school supplies in womens hands on a soft yellow background

Many tweens enjoy expressing their creativity through art. An art supplies set that includes high-quality colored pencils, markers, paints, sketch pads, and brushes can inspire their artistic talents. Consider a themed set, like a watercolor painting kit or a drawing set focused on comic book art, which can be one of the best gifts for tweens.

Why It’s Great

  • Encourages creativity and self-expression.
  • Provides an opportunity to develop fine motor skills.

2. STEM Kits

Child boy plays with an electronic constructor at home at the table.

Gift ideas like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) kits can ignite a tween’s passion for learning and exploration. Look for kits that focus on building robots, coding, or conducting science experiments. Options like chemistry sets or electronic circuit kits can be particularly engaging and are great gifts for tween girls as well.

Why It’s Great

  • Fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Encourages hands-on learning.

3. Personalized Jewelry

Different kind of handmade accessories from glass beads.

Tweens love accessories, and personalized jewelry adds a special touch. Consider a name necklace, charm bracelet, or initial ring. Many online retailers offer customizable options, allowing for unique designs that reflect the recipient’s personality, making this a perfect gift.

Why It’s Great

  • Offers a sense of individuality.
  • Creates a cherished keepsake.

4. Outdoor Adventure Gear

Hiking, camping and mountain tools on a wooden floor ready to go to the adventure

You can encourage outdoor play and exploration with gifts like a high-quality backpack, binoculars, or a camping set. Items such as skateboards, rollerblades, or bicycles can also promote physical activity and provide hours of fun. This is especially appealing during the holiday season when families often enjoy outdoor activities together.

Why It’s Great

  • Promotes an active lifestyle.
  • Fosters a love for nature and the outdoors.

5. Board Games and Puzzles

one person playing fun board game

Gift ideas for tweens, like board games and puzzles, are perfect for tweens, providing a fun way to spend time with friends and family. Look for games that challenge their strategic thinking, such as “Catan,” “Ticket to Ride,” or cooperative games like “Pandemic.”

Why It’s Great

  • Fosters social interaction and teamwork.
  • Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

6. Gift Cards

Ticket template for sale, voucher, offer, gift card, dicount

If you’re unsure of their specific tastes, gift cards to popular stores like Amazon, Target, or their favorite clothing or toy store are a fantastic option. This gives tweens the freedom to choose exactly what they want, making it one of the good Christmas gifts 12-year-olds can appreciate.

Why It’s Great

  • Empower tweens to make their own choices.
  • Eliminates the guesswork in gift-giving.

7. Books or Book Series

Books can be a wonderful gift for tweens who enjoy reading. Consider popular series like “Harry Potter,” “Percy Jackson,” or “The Hunger Games.” You might also explore graphic novels or illustrated books to capture their attention. These can make great presents for 12-year-olds.

Why It’s Great

  • Encourages reading and imagination.
  • Offers a chance to delve into new worlds and ideas.

8. Tech Gadgets

Focused preteen boy in modern headset study from home look on computer screen take notes to copybook.

Tweens are often interested in technology, making gadgets a hit gift idea. Items like Bluetooth headphones, smart speakers, or fun phone accessories can enhance their tech experience. Consider age-appropriate tech toys, like coding robots or drones, which are popular among Gen Alpha.

Why It’s Great

  • Keeps them engaged with modern technology.
  • Supports learning through interactive play.

9. DIY Craft Kits

Pink felt Teddy bear, handmade toy. Scissors, needle, thread, pins, paper templates - sewing kit

Craft kits allow tweens to create their own unique items while engaging their hands and minds. Look for kits that focus on jewelry making, sewing, painting, or even soap or candle making. These can also serve as excellent gifts for tween girls.

Why It’s Great

  • Encourages creativity and resourcefulness.
  • Provides a sense of accomplishment upon completion.

10. Fashion Accessories

Cute kids hair claws on white background.

Tweens are often developing their personal style, so trendy accessories can be a hit. Items like hats, backpacks, and funky socks or jewelry can complement their outfits. Think about a trendy fanny pack or a stylish phone case that would be perfect as a stocking stuffer during the holiday season.

Why It’s Great

  • Allows for personal expression through style.
  • Keeps them in tune with current trends.

11. Experience Gifts

Horizontal medium section shot of unrecognizable stylish young Black man and Caucasian woman holding bucket of popcorn, cola and tickets for movie

Sometimes, the best gifts are experiences rather than physical items. Consider tickets to a concert, theme park, or movie, or even a membership to a local museum or science center. Experience gifts create lasting memories and are among the good news for gift-givers looking for something special.

Why It’s Great

  • Offers unique, fun experiences.
  • Creates lasting memories and bonding opportunities.

14. Shades

Cute little girl in glasses with open book and backpack against orange background

As tweens start to express their personal style, cool shades make for a fashionable and functional gift. Look for trendy designs, from retro frames to sporty styles that will not only protect their eyes but also elevate their outfits. Goggles with UV protection are a stylish and smart accessory that tweens will love to show off.

Why It’s Great

  • Combines eye protection with style.
  • Helps them look trendy while staying safe in the sun.

13. Fashionable Phone Accessories

Multi-colored headphones on blue background.

Many tweens are getting their first phones, making phone accessories one of the practical gift ideas for tweens. Look for stylish cases, pop sockets, or portable chargers. A cute phone stand or personalized phone holder can also make their device feel unique, serving as one of the gift ideas for 12-year-olds.

Why It’s Great

  • Combines practicality with personal style.
  • Helps them care for their new gadgets.

14. Cooking or Baking Kits

A little boy prepares chocolate muffin dough.

Cooking and baking kits are excellent for tweens interested in culinary arts. Look for beginner kits that come with easy recipes and all the necessary ingredients, or fun themed kits like cookie decorating sets or candy-making kits. These can also be included in a gift guide for tween girls.

Why It’s Great

  • Encourages independence and skill development.
  • Offers a delicious end product to enjoy.

15. Fitness Tracker

Close up Girl using smartwatch touching button and touchscreen on active sports.

Promote an active lifestyle with a fitness tracker designed for tweens. It is one of the best gift ideas for tweens. These devices can track steps, sleep patterns, and activity levels, making exercise more fun. Many trackers come with challenges that can motivate tweens to stay active, making it one of the best gifts for tweens during the holiday season.

Why It’s Great

  • Encourages physical activity and healthy habits.
  • Provides a fun way to set and achieve fitness goals.

Want to choose the best tracker for your loved tween? Check out this article and get insights about the trackers.

Conclusion

Finalizing the discussion, this guide is all about the perfect gift for the tween in your house. Once you explore if they love art, science, fashion, or the outdoors, it becomes easy to choose one. You’ll make their special occasion memorable by selecting gifts that inspire creativity, learning, and adventure.

Create A Lasting Joy!

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