
47 Best Gifts for Tweens
Our roundup of the best gifts for tweens will make shopping for the 10, 11 and 12-year-olds in your life a snap. Birthdays and holidays are a great opportunity to give gifts that encourage their interests (and show that you know what's on trend), but don't forget experience gifts for tweens like a trip to a theme park, museum or theater show.
You can peek ahead to the teen years for more gift inspiration, too, or check out our curated Sephora gifts for tweens who are into beauty!
What makes Upparent gift lists unique? The gift ideas for tweens that you see here are submitted by regular parents in our community. You won't find a one-size-fits-all list compiled by an editor, or recommendations that seem legit but are actually paid for by brands. We're just sharing the things that our tweens have gotten and loved, that we've discovered and are excited to give, or that are on the wish list. Help us build the best list of cool and unique gifts for tweens by adding your picks and reviews below!
Millie Marotta Adult Coloring Books
Being a tween isn't easy; you're not yet a teenager but are dealing with some pretty heavy topics such as peer pressure, puberty, and junior high cliques. Learning stress management techniques, as simple as coloring in coloring books, will be key to surviving the teenage years ahead. There are many coloring books geared toward adults that would make great gifts for tweens! Don't forget to pair with a nice set of markers or colored pencils.
LEGO Architecture Paris Skyline
Nancy L. said: LEGO's Architecture line is designed for older builders. This skyline set is ideal for kids who are interested in architecture, reading about history, or someone who is simply dreaming of a trip to Paris.
Snap Circuits Arcade
Gina I. said: With Snap Circuits Arcade, kids get hands-on experience building working circuits and electronic devices. The set features 30 snap modules that can be used to create more than 200 projects. Its clear, easy-to-follow instructions and stimulating arcade style games offer hours of entertainment.
Anboor Squishies
Kristy Pepping said: Another hit with this age seems to be these squishy toys. They come in several shapes, sizes and designs. Kids like to collect different ones and use them as stress relievers as well.
Echo Dot Clock
Kelly R said: These Echo Dots with a digital clock are a great step up when kids are ready for something a little more grown up than the toddler alarm clock. You don't need to buy the kid-specific Echo Dot in order to use the parental controls...this one works great for us. My kids love having them in their rooms as alarm clocks, for the fun Alexa skills, and to listen to music when they want some alone time. If you have multiple units in the house, you can also use them as an intercom system to "drop in" on other rooms...this comes in handy when we're downstairs and need to coax our tween out of bed!
Gummygoods Squeezable Night Light
Yoli B said: Fun room accessories make great gifts for tweens who might be ready to move on from their little kid room decor. This colorful gummy bear LED nightlight will be a hit! The best part is that you have to squeeze the gummy belly to turn it on.
Blank Comic Book for Kids
Erynn said: If the tween in your life is the artistic type, gift him or her this blank comic book to create an adventure with no limits! Even kids who don't enjoy writing will love drawing their own story in comic book form, and this book gives them plenty of space to explore.
Minky Couture Blankets
These incredibly soft and comfortable blankets come in different sizes, colors, patterns, warmth levels and collections. Keep and eye out for frequent sales and offers!
Sue Krawitz Tandoc said: I bought several Minky Couture blankets for recent holiday gifts and for my kids and they are honestly the softest and comfiest blankets ever. We have 4 now because my kids will hog them, even though one is the monster shareable size! They make great gifts, too!
Hydro Flask Insulated Water Bottle
Alexandra F. said: This popular water bottle is one of the best water bottles for kids (and adults). We’ve been using Hydro Flasks in our family for years, and I love how they keep our water cool and fresh tasting for hours and hours...even days, when we’ve forgotten them in the car. We've had them in a bunch of different sizes, and I think the 32 oz with a straw lid is the general favorite.
Glow-in-the-Dark Paracord Wristband Kit
Lisa R said: Making friendship bracelets, and particularly paracord bracelets seems to be the preteen fashion trend that never dies, perhaps because they're just so satisfying to make. This kit comes with everything needed to make 6 bracelets.

Apple Watch with GPS and Cellular
This smartwatch allows you to make and receive calls, send and receive text messages, and use other cellular features directly from your wrist without needing your iPhone nearby. The built-in GPS also allows you to track your workouts and activities.
marisa_anne said: A kid-friendly smartwatch and fitness tracker that doubles as a phone! Keeps them away from traditional “screens” while also being able to reach them when out with friends!

Sol de Janeiro Hair & Body Fragrance Mist
Fragrances are often a favorite beauty product for tweens, and this brand is a popular choice among the Sephora crowd. Though fragrance isn’t generally awesome for sensitive skin, as long as it doesn’t cause irritation, this long-lasting fragrance for hair and skin is a good bet for any Sephora-loving kid.
Sarah C. said: The "it" gift this year! Smells good & tween friendly!
Under Armour Slide Sandals
Kelly R said: My son pretty much lives in this style of sandal, and I think they'd make great gifts for tweens - especially boys. They're more comfortable and cushioned than many other types of sandals, and no piece between the toes means he can slip them on when he's wearing socks.
Singing Machine Karaoke System
A karaoke machine will bring out the aspiring singer in your tween. With its CD player, disco light show and two microphone jacks, it's great for parties or a solo session party for one. The bluetooth audio streaming lets you connect your smartphone or tablet for even more song options.

Kendra Scott Necklace
This popular wear-with-anything necklace is available in a wide variety of gemstones to match any tween or teen's preferences.
Sarah C. said: Cute, reasonable and all the girls love them!
Primary photo: Emma Simpson on Unsplash
Upparent collects community-submitted recommendations and reviews, and any ideas that are shared reflect the opinions of individual contributors.