With an age finally in the double digits, 10-year-olds are definitely not babies anymore, but let’s be honest: They’re not quite as big as they think they are, either. (Yes, they may be at the top of the food chain in elementary school, but they’re still in elementary school, so there’s that for starters.) So, when it comes to gifting a 10-year-old, cool factor is important but you don’t want anything that’s too grown-up. Since kids at this age are exploring new passions, as well as learning how to develop existing ones, my strategy is to focus on gifts that revolve around passion points such as fashion, cooking, reading, and science. Looking for a little gift giving inspiration for the 10-year-old in your life? Here are the best gifts for 10-year-olds…
Cooking Class: 57 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Make, $13.26
Whether your 10-year-old is the next Food Network star or has never even held a potholder, this book has some fantastic (and delicious!) recipes. With healthy ingredients and step-by-step instructions, kids will love whipping up meals and even desserts.
Photo: Amazon
SPLAT Hair Chalk, $5.30
Don’t worry: It’s not permanent! Kids are all about experimentation, and with this awesome hair chalk, they can try out blue streaks — or purple, pink, or blond — and then be back to their normal hair color after one wash. The chalk goes on dry and adds a cool splash of pastel.
Photo: Amazon
Wii — Just Dance 2016, $25.82
If your 10-year-old loves to dance, the latest edition of this popular game is a great choice with lots of popular new songs. Kids can challenge friends from around the world to dance-offs, and activate the “sweat mode” to track calories.
Photo: Amazon
Cupcake Tote Bag, $28
This super cute tote bag with cupcake pattern is totally adorable and fun, and perfect for the tween on the go.
Photo: Etsy
The Seventh Most Important Thing, $10.36
This is an excellent coming-of-age story about a middle school student who learns the meaning of redemption when his Dad dies. One thing leads to another and he ends up being sentenced to community service helping the neighborhood “Junk Man” complete his artistic masterpiece. Based on the life and work of real artist, James Hampton, the book explores friendship, love, and important life lessons.
Photo: Amazon
OzoBot, $59.95
This tiny, powerful robot will actually teach kids computer science through a collection of game-based activities and digital apps. Kids can create private games, secret codes, and their very own robotic equations.
Photo: Ozobot
