The Best Gifts for Kids 8 + to Tween 2021: Holiday Gift Guide

 

The Best Gifts for Kids 8 + to Tween 2021: Holiday Gift Guide
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The Best Gifts for Kids 8 + to Tween 2021: Holiday Gift Guide

For older kids ages eight to tween, parents know that kids this age may gravitate towards a game they loved four years back or are ready to tackle something pretty advanced. This grouping of kids is on a case-by-case basis (#IYKYK).

This is why we have gifts that do not focus on one genre- for really kids these days are pretty darn cool and surprise us with their creativity and intelligence every day so why should we not ‘bring it’ when picking out their gifts?!

Here are 7 worth considering:

 

Questions for Rebel Girls 

While the Rebel Girls series encourages girls to know they can reach their dreams/goals by reading about amazing women, I would personally love for my sons to read this book. The book shares quotes and introduces extraordinary women throughout history, allowing the reader to answer questions and be inspired. At the same time, they think upon these questions, imagine what they would do in a similar scenario, and perhaps have a  discussion with their peers or family. Ages 6+,  $9.99, rebelgirls.com

 

YuMe Among Us 

Kids love a good plushy, and these comfy pillow styles from the hit online multiplayer game Among Us are perfect for your tween-ager! Made of super-soft Velboa fabric, this plush is super soft, and yes, you can squeeze it. Each plush is sold separately and is 16 inches in height. Age 3 +, $24.98, Walmart.com

Pokemon 25th Anniversary Celebrations Elite Trainer Box

If your child is into Pokemon, then you know that Pokemon is 24/7 for fans of Pikachu and Mew, to name a few. This Anniversary Celebrations Elite Trainer Box includes 10 Pokémon TCG: Celebrations 4-card booster packs, five additional Pokémon TCG booster packs, one special foil card featuring Greninja, 65 card sleeves featuring the Pokémon 25 logo and lightning tail design, 45 Pokémon TCG Energy cards, and more. Your kid will love this trainer Box. Ages 6+, $93, Amazon.com

 

Beetle Taxonomy Paint By Number Banner

If one of your goals is less screen time and more art, this banner kit includes unique die-cut cards printed on 100% paperboard. There are six beetle encyclopedia plates . Not only will your artist learn about each bug’s name, but you will also be able to paint these cards and have miniature art pieces to keep or be framed by you. Ages 13 +, $44, Nathanandco.com.

Artie Max The Coding Robot

You can’t go wrong with a STEM gift, and this Artie Max is perfect for both beginners and pro-coders.  Learning to code can feel intimidating, but with Artie Max, the robot draws in 6 major coding languages that help kids code creatively.  The Artie Max can be directly connected to your child’s tablet, phone, iPad, or home computer, and learning to code can start immediately. Ages 8-12, $109.99, educationalinsights.com.

 

Ghosted Game

Tweens love weird games, so we are giving in and adding GHOSTED a game of Boo-Dunnit. Where you and your players help your restless spirit search and identify who wanted you Ghosted.  Ages 10+, 16, Target.com.

Sphere Dj-Style Headphones 

If you go through headphones like crazy, you will appreciate these wired, dj-style headphones with a mic. That, at $5, won’t break the band, so buy one for every member of the family. The headphones feature a built-in mic, comfy ear cushions, and an adjustable headband. Are compatible with iPhone®, iPad®, Samsung galaxy®, android™ smartphones, tablets & other 3.5mm audio devices. $5, fivebelow.com.

Psst… Check out CDC Recommends Kids Ages 5-11 to Receive the COVID-19 Vaccine: Here is What NYC Parents Need to Know

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Garden School

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">A coed, fully-accredited, independent school in Jackson Heights offering an excellent and affordable Nursery–Grade 12 education. Small classes allow for a personalized approach.</span></p>

Camp Woodward

<p>For those who live action sports, a week at Woodward West is beyond anything they’ve ever imagined. With an over 50-year legacy of teaching athletes balance and agility, Woodward knows what it takes to learn and be the best in the sports kids love. That is why we’ve built the most innovative parks, with features and training tools that help reduce injury and give kids a safe space to progress in the sports they love.  </p> <p>11 weeks of summer camp offered in 2024 will feature the following programs:</p> <p>- Skateboarding</p> <p>- Scooter riding</p> <p>- BMX freestyle biking</p> <p>- BMX racing</p> <p>- Parkour</p> <p>- Roller skating</p> <p>- Multisport</p> <p> </p> <p>The multisport program is a great place where kids can get a taste of all the action sports and discover their true passion!</p> <p>Woodward instruction and parks are built for progression, while recreational activities guarantee campers never have a dull moment. There are also pro athletes and Olympians in attendance each week who teach and hang with campers all week long.</p> <p>There’s no place like it. Join us this summer!</p>

Extreme STEAM Science Kids at Park Shore

<p>If your child has a passion for science and technology, our unique educational summer program is tailor-made for them! Immerse your young scientist in a world of robotics, mechanical and electrical engineering, coding, science, art, and mathematics, all while ensuring a fun and engaging learning experience. Housed in our state-of-the-art three-story STEAM Science Center and Hydroponics Grow Lab on our expansive 15-acre campus, the program goes beyond the ordinary.</p> <p>Our thematic 2-week sessions, designed for grades 1-5, are carefully crafted to stimulate curiosity in science and foster the development of essential 21st Century Skills. From hands-on experiments to exciting projects, your child will explore the wonders of STEAM subjects in a dynamic and supportive environment.</p> <p>The learning experience extends beyond the classroom with scientific field trips that enhance the understanding of real-world applications. These excursions provide a valuable opportunity for students to witness the practical implications of the concepts they learn in the program.</p> <p>The morning program is just the beginning; we offer the flexibility to extend the day, allowing your child to delve into all the amazing activities Park Shore has to offer. From engaging in outdoor adventures to participating in creative arts and athletic activities, the options are vast, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching summer experience.</p> <p>Enrolling now for the Summer of 2024 comes with the added benefit of Early Rates, making this educational journey not only enriching but also affordable. Don't miss out on the opportunity to spark your child's love for learning and exploration. Join us for a summer filled with discovery, creativity, and endless possibilities!</p>