30 Best Gifts for Kids: School-Age Edition
30 Best Gifts for Kids: School-Age Edition
With so many toys out there—and new ones being created every day—you’d think it would be easy to find gifts for kids when it comes to gift-giving. But don’t you just find that when the time comes, you have no idea what to get? The choice is overwhelming, you don’t want to repeat something they already have, and you want it to be something they’ll actually enjoy and use. That’s why I’ve put some time and thought into picking out useful gifts for kids, educational gifts for kids, and creative gifts where you can even join in and have some fun with them.
Because at the end of the day, kids care most about two things—play and feeling connected to us. Whether it’s a hands-on craft set, a fun STEM toy, or an interactive game, the best gifts are the ones that bring joy and spark curiosity. I’ve gathered some thoughtful picks that aren’t just another toy to add to the pile but something that encourages learning, creativity, and quality time together.
You may love: 14 Great Gift Ideas For Toddlers
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30 Best Gifts for Kids
1
Magnetic Puzzles
You can find these for all different ages and tailored to your child’s interests, but I absolutely love how easy they are to put together and how satisfying they are to place in the book! My children and I genuinely enjoy assembling them and then folding them up. Honestly, it’s probably the only puzzle we’ve had where we’ve had less trouble losing pieces.
2
Wiggle feet
The Bouncyband Wiggle Feet is great for anyone who needs a little extra help focusing. It’s a 12” x 9” sensory foot cushion that quietly lets you move while working, studying, or at home. The best part? It’s totally silent, so it’s perfect for keeping your feet busy without distracting anyone else. I’m ordering one for my son so I’ll report back here and let you knbiw our own experience!
3
Toy vending machine
So, my dad pulled out one of these at his house when all his grandkids—there are quite a few—came to visit, and let me tell you, this little toy vending machine/arcade game was the absolute spotlight of the night! The Bundaloo Claw Machine Arcade Game is the perfect throwback to those classic arcade days. It’s a fun and challenging mini candy grabber that turned into a full-on family competition.
4
Wooden vending machine
This game looks ideal for slightly younger ones than the above. The 16-piece set includes everything from wooden snack bars and drink cans to a bank card and a customizable sign. It’s perfect for teaching kids sorting, counting, letter recognition, and cause-and-effect—all while encouraging imaginative, screen-free play. My daughter would adore this!
5
STEM explorers sun catchers
With over 30 STEM projects, they’re not just having fun—they’re learning early math, coding, and critical thinking along the way. The set comes with 400 jewel pieces and three pop-in, pop-out crystal frames, so you can create and then start all over again! Plus, it’s 100% screen-free.
6
Instant print camera
The Instant Print Camera gifts for Kids is the perfect gift for young photographers! This camera lets kids snap pictures and instantly print black-and-white photos in just one second. Plus, they can store color photos on the SD card and have fun with 15 scene filters and 16 sticker options to make each shot unique.
7
Magic adventures globe
An interactive way for kids to explore the world! This globe goes beyond just countries and capitals, featuring a 2.8” video screen that brings cultures, animals, habitats, and more to life with over five hours of BBC videos. It’s filled with educational content that makes learning fun-and it’s something you can enjoy together.
8
Scavenger hunt potions
The Craft-Tastic Scavenger Hunt Potions Kit is such a fun way to get kids outside and using their imagination. My children love things like this. They can collect bits of nature and turn them into magical potions using the included recipes—or make up their own. . Such a great hands-on activity to keep little ones entertained while getting them to explore the outdoors.
9
Magic adventures globe
My son and his friends love playing piano and keyboards. It comes with everything you need-full-size keys for a real piano feel, tons of tones and rhythms, and even a teaching mode to help you learn. Playing the piano can be incredibly calming for children. It helps them focus, express emotions, and develop patience. The repetitive movements and structured patterns in music can be soothing, almost like a form of meditation. Plus, it gives them a creative outlet to release stress, which can be especially helpful after a long school day.
10
Swing seat/Hammock
Your child is going to love this! I know mine will. A cozy, fun, and sensory-friendly spot for kids to relax, read, or just hang out. it creates a calming space indoors or outdoors.
11
Calming sensory lamp
A soothing night light projector designed to create a relaxing atmosphere for kids. With 7 light modes, gentle nature sounds, and a built-in music player, it helps establish a peaceful bedtime routine. The soft, rhythmic waves of light provide sensory stimulation, promoting focus and relaxation.
12
Book making kit
This is the newest version of the award winning book making kit for children, This is a dream come true for young storytellers! With everything needed to write, illustrate, and publish a professionally printed hardcover book, it’s the perfect mix of creativity and learning. The included writing guide helps spark ideas, and kids even get to feature their own “About the Author” section on the back cover. A fun and inspiring gift for any child who loves to create and write.
13
Canvas painting boards
Why is painting great for kids? Engaging children in painting activities offers numerous benefits for their creativity, focus, and emotional well-being. making it a valuable activity for both fun and learning. Plus, it’s an enjoyable and calming activity to do with your children so you can get that quality time together. We always want to support that!
14
Canvas painting boards
Explore with your child the magic of metamorphosis. This kit includes a voucher for live caterpillars, a reusable pop-up habitat, a dropper, a feeder, and a STEM journal filled with fun activities. This is perfect for families who want to learn with your child, or classrooms. A butterfly kit for curiosity and teaching kids about life cycles in a truly memorable way.
15
Animal manga tiles
We all know and love these magnetic tiles, but have you seen the ones with animals? My daughter is going to adore these. With five adorable animal figurines—a seal, polar bear, baby polar bear, penguin, and whale—alongside tundra-themed magnetic tiles, kids can build, create, and explore their own icy adventures.
16
Animal manga tiles
If you have a child who’s interested in science, or just experimenting, they’ll absolutely love the PLAYSTEM Outdoor Water Powered Rocket Physics Learning Set. It’s not just fun—it’s a great way to introduce kids to STEM concepts, all while they enjoy the excitement of rocketry and space flight. And its made from durable, safe materials.
17
Feelings activity set
This is a super sweet game to play with your children to help talk about emotions and connect through play. It includes an SEL activity guide to spark meaningful conversations about feelings, helping kids recognize, express, and manage their emotions.
18
Code and go robot
A screen-free way to introduce young kids (ages 4+) to early coding and problem-solving skills. Through having fun, children program the mouse to find the cheese, all while developing essential STEM skills like critical thinking, sequencing, and logic.
19
Warmies
The snuggliest of gifts are these adorable warm up cuddly teddies, you can choose your child’s favourite animal from a selection including an owl, seal, axolotyl, unicorn and many more.Warmed up for soothing comfort or chilled for cooling relief—perfect for bedtime cuddles, easing aches, or just feeling cozy.
20
Paint your name
Photo credit: Acraftybox
Photo credit: PaintYourOwnCraftKit
I find these just adorable! Painting is already fun and relaxing, but getting to paint their own name makes it extra special. Children can proudly display their artwork somewhere special—on their bedroom door, a shelf, or even as a keepsake gift for family. It’s a wonderful way to boost creativity, build confidence, and create lasting memories. I love finding things my children have painted a while ago, its so special.
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