Presents approved by the pickiest of all: preteens themselves. So you’re trying to find a great gift for a tween—something that feels age-appropriate for a 9- to 12-year-old yet trendy enough to satisfy their ever-changing tastes. And since what’s popular can fade fast (thanks, TikTok), we asked tween girls and boys what’s actually on their wish lists.
Tech gadgets like headphones, Bluetooth speakers, and galaxy projectors were top mentions, but they’re still young enough to get excited about Jellycat stuffed animals, hands-on Lego sets, and room-decorating kits that let them personalize their space. Ahead, find preteen and early teen gift ideas straight from the source: our own kids, siblings, nieces, and nephews. Whichever you choose, you might finally look like you’re clued in to what’s cool when Christmas or their birthday rolls around.
Our top gifts for tweens, at a glance Our Top Pick: Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera, $90 An Advent Calendar: Conair 12 Days of Sweet Treats, $40 The Group Chat-Worthy Gift: Coach Plaza Bag 18, $95 A Vibe-Setter: Jeryswet Astronaut Light Projector, $35 Under $50: Robecurls Curling Headband, $28 Under $15: Qanyi Desk Decor Toaster Lamp, $13 Need proof that trends are cyclical? Today’s kids are just as obsessed with instant cameras as you once were. Tweens we talked to love the magic of watching a moment develop, and many said they stick them inside their phone cases, clip them to fairy lights in their rooms, or stick them into their bathroom mirrors.
A designer purse is a pretty grown-up gift, but this mini Coach style has a nostalgic, ’90s-inspired shape that keeps it feeling fresh and playful. It’s just big enough for her lip gloss and phone without feeling too grown-up, and she can carry it as a shoulder bag or wristlet. Your tween girl might be about to enter the phase where any overt display of affection makes her cringe.
This delicate heart pendant demonstrates your love in a more understated way that she can wear everyday. This galaxy projector is all over TikTok as a cool gift for kids and tweens. The device casts galaxies across their walls, adding an otherworldly ambiance while they study or scroll on their phones.
So many of the tweens we spoke to are far more invested in their skin-care routines than we ever were at their age, especially when it comes to buzzy K-beauty brands like Laneige. This beginner-friendly trio includes a gentle gel cleanser, sleeping mask, and moisturizer that focus on hydration rather than stronger active ingredients their young skin doesn’t need. Give it another couple of years before they’re begging for a massive beauty Advent calendar.
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