4 Outside-the-box Holiday Gift Ideas

Older kids and tweens are notoriously difficult to shop for during the holiday season. They really don’t play with toys anymore. You don’t want them having only screen time, of course, so you don’t want to give video game after video game. And you wouldn’t dare try to pick out clothes for them! Yet, you want to give your child or grandchild a gift they’ll really enjoy. This is why it is so tough.

 

With that in mind, here are a few ideas that are creative, fun, and they surely won’t get from anyone else:

 

#1 Time at a science camp in NYC. Don’t just give more stuff; give an experience! A STEM camp in NYC is an incredible time for kids and tweens of this age. STEM stands for Science Technology Engineering and Math. No, this won’t be anything like school! Your child will get to do things like build a robot, make new friends, learn coding to create an app, and so much more. You may just find them asking to go to a STEM camp in NYC again next year!

 

#2 Outdoor games and activities. Give them an excuse to get outside! A new bike, scooter, or skateboard is always a crowd pleaser. If they don’t like these types of activities, you can opt for another type of game like cornhole. Anything that gets them away from their screens will make you happy, and something to do with their friends will make them happy!

 

#3 An instant camera. Don’t you just love it when something old-fashioned comes back in style? Right now, tweens are loving the idea of an instant camera! This gift will will make sure every holiday event is well documented, plus time with their friends on the bus and at school as well. They will get such a kick out of having the picture right away; they won’t believe that’s how cameras used to be!

 

#4 Clear tote bag. Many schools, theme parks, museums, and stadiums don’t allow purses, fanny packs, backpacks, and other large bags to be brought in. No one wants to be stuck walking around with arms full of stuff. A trendy clear bag is the ideal gift and she'll be able to use it for years- even in high school!

 

When it comes to shopping, the tweens might just be the most challenging group on your list. What's cool? Who is cool? What used to be cool and isn’t cool anymore? Don’t give them something they don’t want. Gift cards and cash are not very personal. Show them you love them and value them with a gift that will surprise and delight them!