Best Christmas Gifts For Tweens 8 to 12 Years Olds
Looking for the perfect Christmas gifts for the tween in your life, we have some great ideas for 8 to 12-year-olds for 2025.
Choosing presents for tweens is not always an easy task. They are moving on from being a child, becoming more independent but still not a teen.
Although it is easy to turn to good old gift money so they can choose some presents they like for themselves. However, a nice thoughtful gift can also always go down well.
We have been on the lookout for Christmas gifts for older children and we have put together a list of our top picks for 2024.
Looking for a gift for a teen check >>> Best Christmas Gifts for Teens 2025
Disclaimer: Some Of The Gifts Below Were Sent To Us For Review And Or Photography Purposes And Some Links Are Affiliate Links (See Here). However, The Items Had Been Carefully Selected Beforehand And Our Opinions Are Of Our Own.
Renegade Z56 Kids Electric Ride-On Motorbike
£299.95
For tweens who dream of off-road adventures and motocross thrills, the Renegade Z56 Electric Ride-On Motorbike is the ultimate Christmas gift.
This 24V mini dirt bike is built for action, featuring a twist-grip throttle, handlebar brake, rear spring shock, and knobbly tyres for added grip and control. With foot pegs for a stable riding position and a rugged design, it delivers a realistic motocross experience scaled perfectly for kids.
Powered by a 1000W brushless motor and a 10Ah battery, the Z56 offers up to an hour of ride time on a single charge—and it recharges just as fast.
Plus, it runs quietly and emission-free, making it ideal for garden trails or local parks without disturbing the peace and comes in green, pink, red and blue.
Aimed at children aged 8 years and over, it’s a brilliant way to combine outdoor fun with independence and confidence-building.
To buy >>> Renegade Z56 Kids Electric Ride-On Motorbike
Yoto Mini Player
£59.99
Looking for a smart, screen-free gift that keeps older kids entertained, inspired, and learning? The Mini Yoto Player is the perfect present for curious minds this Christmas.
The award-winning kids’ audio platform Yoto supports independent play, listening and learning from ages 0 to 12 years and over.
The Yoto Mini gives kids the freedom to safely enjoy their favourite audio on the move with size-defying high-quality audio. It offers child-friendly tactile control, pixel display, sleep training features and 14 hours of play per charge.
Plus, Yoto offers a huge library of over 1000+ audio cards for the whole family to enjoy, including some Springtime favourites and brand new releases. These include The Wicked Soundtrack, Winnie-the-Pooh, BrainBots Dinosaurs and even a Sleepy Song Pack.
You can also add on accessories such as the Mini Adventure Jacket, which helps protect the player on the go and Yoto headphones, which offer a kid-safe volume.
To buy >>> Yoto Mini Player
Secret Creator Secret Video Journal
£49.99
For kids who love creating content, sharing stories, or just experimenting with video, the Secret Creator Secret Video Journal is the ultimate gift to spark their imagination.
This all-in-one set includes a ring light, phone holder, green screen, and props—everything they need to film their own secret video diary or mini movie. Whether they’re documenting their day, making stop-motion animations, or trying out fun effects, it’s a brilliant way to encourage creativity and build confidence on camera.
Designed with young creators in mind, it’s perfect for over 7s who want to explore the world of video-making in a safe, playful way.
To buy >>> Secret Creator Secret Video Journal
Photo Creator Retro Instant Camera
£70.00
Older kids can capture and create with the stylish Photo Creator Instant Camera this Christmas
It features a 12-megapixel lens and a 3″ screen so they can instantly check out their pictures and videos. Plus, it features fun filters to personalise their snaps.
The built-in thermal printer lets them print their pics instantly with no drying time, and with the included 4 coloured markers and stickers, they can customise the prints.
The camera also includes a built-in 1000mAh rechargeable battery with a USB charging cable, so it’s perfect on the go!
To buy >>> Photo Creator Retro Instant Camera
Dress to Impress Fashion Doll – Lana
£29.99
Step into the spotlight with Dress to Impress Fashion Doll – Lana, inspired by the fan-favourite character from the hit Dress to Impress game.
Lana arrives runway-ready in her signature all-white salon outfit, complete with glam makeup and her iconic pink nail file accessory. Fully articulated for striking fierce poses, she’s perfect for both imaginative play and stylish display.
This officially licensed doll includes a collector card featuring exclusive game art and a redeemable DLC code for in-game rewards, making it a must-have for fans who want to level up their looks both on and off screen. With her bold style and game tie-in, Lana is a standout choice for fashion-loving kids aged 8 and up.
More >>> Dress to Impress Lana
Connetix 70-Piece Pro Construction Set
£119.00
Level up creative play this Christmas with the Connetix 70-Piece Pro Construction Set—a magnetic building experience designed especially for tweens.
This advanced set introduces SmartSpin™ technology, allowing magnets to rotate 360° and click precisely into place. With smaller tiles and ultra-powerful magnets, older kids can build complex, multi-dimensional structures that are sturdy enough to pick up and move. From interactive towers to geometric sculptures, the possibilities are endless.
Perfect for budding engineers, designers, and curious minds aged 8 and up, it’s a hands-on gift that blends STEM learning with imaginative play.
More >>> Connetix 70-Piece Pro Construction Set
Doteki Multiplayer Battle Pack
£29.99
For kids who love action-packed games and friendly competition, the Doteki Multiplayer Battle Pack is a brilliant Christmas gift.
This fast-paced, interactive game lets players choose their Doteki warrior and battle it out using unique abilities and strategic moves. Each pack includes two collectable Doteki figures and everything needed to start a head-to-head showdown — perfect for siblings, friends or family game nights.
With easy-to-learn rules and dynamic gameplay, it’s ideal for developing quick thinking, tactical skills and sportsmanship. Plus, the collectable characters add an extra layer of excitement as kids build their Doteki team.
To buy >>> Doteki Multiplayer Battle Pack
National Geographic Build Your Own Volcano
£9.99
Keep your science-loving tween busy with the National Geographic Build Your Own Volcano Kit.
It has everything to create, paint and erupt your very own volcano! Kids will love learning about volcanic eruptions with volcanic rocks, tectonic plates and earthquakes in the full-colour learning guide.
Plus, they can enjoy adding or starting their rock collection with two volcanic rock specimens that come with the set!
Aimed at children aged 8 years and over.
To buy >>> National Geographic Build Your Own Volcano
Build Your Own Plane Launcher
Credit – Build Your Own Kits
For a fun craft that doubles as a great toy, check out the Build Your Own Plane Launcher
The 47-piece kit contains everything you need to slot together and build this incredible launcher.
With easy-to-follow and detailed instructions, you simply press out the pre-cut parts, attach the elastic bands, and you’re ready to fly your planes! Best of all, no glue is needed.
Once built, you can experiment with the 10 different fold ‘n’ fly paper planes. See how their performance can be affected by combining the integrated power scale and changes to the plane’s flight dynamics.
The set is made using sustainable cardboard and no plastics, and is suitable for over 8s.
To buy >>> Build Your Own Plane Launcher
Crystal Art Mega Activity Set
£12.99
If you’re looking for a fun craft set to keep your tween busy, check out the Crystal Art Mega Activity Sets.
They are jam-packed full of Crystal Art activities such as stickers, a bookmark, a card and more. Plus comes complete with a tool set to help you complete the projects.
The Crystal Art Mega Activity Set comes in a choice of Disney Stitch, Harry Potter or Marvel Spiderman.
To buy >>> Crystal Art Mega Activity Set
Warmies Boba Bag Charm
£9.99
For kids who love cute accessories and calming comfort, the Warmies Boba Bag Charm is a sweet little stocking filler with a big personality.
Shaped like a mini bubble tea cup, this adorable charm is gently weighted and infused with relaxing French lavender—perfect for soothing anxious moments or simply adding a touch of fun to their backpack or coat zip. It’s soft, squishy, and totally on-trend.
Whether they’re bubble tea fans or just love quirky characters, this Warmie is a sensory-friendly treat that’s as comforting as it is cool.
To buy >>> Warmies Boba Bag Charm
Snackles 14-inch Plushes
£19.99
The fun Snackles collectables are now available in a 14-inch Plush and will be a big hit this Christmas.
These super soft and squishy plushes come in different characters, all paired with favourite snack brands, made squishy!
The extra cute tasty combos include Babra the Jelly Belly Sheep, Seth the Hershey Shark, and Abbie the Axolotl & Krispy Kreme.
To buy >>> Snackles 14-inch plushes
Wow! Pods 4D
There are lots of different brands to collec,t including superheroes and icons from Marvel, Sonic the Hedgehog, Disney,
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Harry Potter, and Wednesday. Each has 12 standard and one super-rare figure to collect or swap in each set.
To buy >>> Wow! Pods 4D
Harry Potter 14” Light Painting Lumos Wand
£24.99
Another fun gift for Harry Potter fans is the Lumos wands from WOW! Stuff.
These fun wands allow all trainee witches and wizards to cast spells, reenact duels, and manage mischief.
Write your name in the sky, summon your Patronus, and practise your best ‘Stupefy’, ‘Expelliarmus’, and ‘Accio’ spells.
Use the 14” Light Painting Lumos Wand to paint with light. Spells and artistic creations can be saved to a smartphone using the app.
Plus, you can choose between Professor Dumbledore, Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ron Weasley and Luna Lovegood, Draco Malfoy or Lord Voldemort’s wands.
To buy >>> Harry Potter 14” Light Painting Lumos Wand
No Brainer Game
£24.99
Get ready for fast-paced family fun with the No Brainer Game—a hilarious and high-energy gift perfect for kids over 8 years.
In this quick-thinking game, players race to answer quirky questions before the timer runs out—but there’s a twist! You’ll need to shout out the wrong answer to win. It’s a brilliant brain-bending challenge that sparks laughter, sharpens thinking skills, and keeps everyone on their toes.
With simple rules and endless replay value, it’s ideal for family game nights, sleepovers, or holiday gatherings.
More >>> No Brainer Game at Smyths
Disney Lorcana Gateway Board Game
£22.99
Disney fans can enter the realm of the popular Lorcana trading card game with Gateway.
This fun board game allows you to go on an intrepid adventure as you search for the hidden Lore with help from a host of Disney characters, past and present!
Designed to introduce beginners, children and Disney fans to the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game and develop the skills needed to take the game to the next level.
Each collectable character card features stunning, re-imagined artwork and unique powers designed to assist you in your quest! Experience well-known Disney characters (and those you may have forgotten!) in a completely different format as you play, trade and collect.
The game is for kids from 8 years and over, and it is for 2 players and over.
To buy >>> Disney Lorcana Gateway Board Game
Bangarang Card Game
For a fun new card game older kids will love Bangarang.
This high-energy game needs players join forces to help the guesser unravel the mystery word on the card using a variety of entertaining clues.
Players must use their wits and creativity to communicate the secret word in five different ways: through a single word, a mime, a single sound, a drawing, or by crafting the letters with their bodies.
With a wide range of words and countless ways to convey them, BANGARANG ensures that no two games are ever the same so its never boring.
For kids over 8 years old.
To buy >>> Bangarang Card Game
Clued Up
£15.49
Older tweens can prove whether they are clued up or just clueless with this fun game.
This fast-paced race challenges you to place your four cups in a stack. Work out answers from just four clues – then slam down a cup to win a point.
Get rid of one cup every time you show you know an answer. But be careful – you can’t use the same cup twice!
This guessing game is great for adults, older kids, friends and family alike.
For ages 10 years and over.
To buy >>> Clued Up
Secret Identity
Credit Hachette Board Games
£32.00
Looking for a fun game for older kids? Check out Secret Identity.
In this award-winning board game, you need to guess each other’s famous identities to earn points
With a limited number of pictogram cards, use and receive your clues carefully to unravel 150 different character cards. Using skills of observation, earn the most victory points to win the game.
Up to 8 players can play, so it makes a great party game. It includes a good selection of both classic and modern icons and celebrities, including those from the UK.
The game is for ages 10 years and over.
Buy >>> Secret Identity Board Game
Quoridor
Credit Hachette Boardgames
From £41.99
Older kids who love strategy games will adore Quoridor.
Tasked with escaping the moving maze as you strike the right balance between moving your piece and building a wall to stop your opponents.
The first to reach the other side of the board wins in the deep but simple game.
Quoridor is available as both a Classic Game for £35.00 and a Travel Game for £22.00.
Buy >>> Quoridor Game
Lost 4 Words
Credit – Happy Puzzle Company
£22.99
The award-winning game Lost 4 Words will be a big hit this Christmas.
A quick-fire word game, the aim is to be the first player or team to correctly identify the connecting word on 15 different cards whilst up against the clock.
The first to reach the finish line on the scoreboard wins.
There are 500 challenges included, and they can be played by 2 to 4 players.
The game is aimed at those aged 10 years and over.
Buy >>> Lost 4 Words
Crack List
£19.99
A cross between the Categories Game and Uno, Crack List will be a hit with tween.
For 2 to 8 players, you choose a category from the list and have to come up with answers that start with the same letters as those on the cards in your hand.
Played over three rounds, the first player to get rid of all their cards wins.
Aimed at children aged 10 years and over.
Buy >>> Crack List Card Game
Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel
£27.99
Game fans will love the ultra-competitive Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel, based on the hit TV series.
Step into the role of the contestant in a race to complete the set of seven questions to hopefully make it to the End Game, for one final question for victory.
Players can compete alone or get into teams, but it is not as simple as having general knowledge skills, as all depends on the spin of The Wheel. Land on gold and you’ll be rewarded with an easier ride, but land on red and you will be off the Wheel. s
Plus, it includes a new web app allowing users to play the TV show music when spinning the board game wheel, creating the full feeling of being on the show!
The game offers an array of question categories, including science, movies, sports, TV, superheroes, video games, history and social media, so something for the whole family.
Aimed at ages 10 years and over.
To buy >>> Michael McIntyre’s The Wheel
The Genius Star
Credit – Happy Puzzle Company
£19.00
Kids who love puzzles will love The Genius Star.
The aim of the game is to complete the star using the eleven coloured shapes before your opponent.
Seems simple enough, however, you also need to roll the seven dice and place a ‘blocker’ piece into the triangle matching the seven numbers.
Plus, there is an extra twist to each challenge, in the shape of a ‘Golden Star’ which may stop you from completing the puzzle altogether.
There are 165,888 possible puzzles to complete, and the game can be played solo or as a race against other players.
The game is aimed at those aged 8 years and over.
To buy >>> Genius Star Puzzle Game
Christmas-Opoly
Credit – Cheatwell Games
£24.99
For a fun Christmas-themed game, check out Christmas-Opoly from Cheatwell.
Players will be transported into a winter wonderland, where the familiar streets of classic Monopoly now have charming, festive-themed properties.
You will discover Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole. Each space on the board is a festive destination waiting to be explored.
The rules are similar to the original game, meaning it is easy to play, but with the added magic of Christmas.
The game is aimed at those aged 8 years and over.
To buy >>> Christmas-Opoly Board Game
The Very Merry Christmas Game
£20.00
Another fun Christmas-themed game option is The Very Merry Christmas Game.
A family game of presents, crackers, Christmas songs and sprouts! The aim of game is to move around the board collecting presents (present cards) to put in your stocking. Presents have a value depending on whether they’re nice… or naff.
Bad presents can also be given to other players; you can steal others’ gifts, all decided on the pull of a cracker. You can take other players’ gifts from them, which is decided on the pull of a cracker.
Land on the singing space, and you have to sing a verse from a Christmas song or carol to avoid losing one of your gifts!
Watch out for the two dreaded sprout cards, as they could have a bad effect and make you lose out.
The player with the best presents at the end of the game is the winner. All the joys of Christmas in this one box!
The game is for 2 to 4 players or teams and for ages 8 to Adult.
To buy >>> The Very Merry Christmas Game
Sosig
Credit : Joking Hazard
£7.99
Game-loving tweens will enjoy the fun travel-sized Sosig card game.
Players are tasked with using different hotdog heads and bodies to complete orders to gain points. Different types of Sosig cards offer different powers, and there is a chance to sabotage opponents with Mystery Meat cards.
The game is quick to play and very addictive.
Sosig is suitable for 2 to 4 players and for those over 10 years old.
To buy >>> Sosig Card Game
Anger Smash
Anger Smash from Weird Games is sure to be a hit with Tweens this Christmas.
A fast-paced, strategic card game for families and friends, it offers a delightful blend of tension, competition and sabotage.
You need to be the first to collect a complete set of Anger and Zen cards while sabotaging opponents with clever use of BloodBoilers and Disruptors.
The game is for everyone over 8 years old.
Read More And To Buy >>> Anger Smash
NERF BUNKR Battle Inflatable Range
From £6.99
NERF lovers will adore the NERF BUNKR Battle Inflatable range.
They come in different packs, shapes and sizes allow you to turn your garden or home into the ultimate NERF battle zone.
They can be used both inside and out, easy to inflate and the bottom can be filled with water to keep them stable.
They can be deflated quickly for small storage and come with NERF Battle Cards giving ideas of new games to play.
Read >>> Review of the NERF BUNKR Cubes
Read >>> Review of the NERF BUNKR Competition Pack
Purchase >>> NERF BUNKR range
Sonic Booma
£12.99
Credit Wicked
What kid wouldn’t love a sports boomerang with ultra-loud screaming wings!
Sonic Booma is super easy-to-use, made from special ‘Memorang’ polymer and featuring an innovative, world-famous tri-blade design it boasts a whopping flight range of 15-20 metres!
It is easy to use so that anyone can play and will keep them busy for hours.
To Order >>> Sonic Booma
woom LOKKI Bike Lock
£25.00
If a new bike is on the Christmas list this year make sure to check out the woom LOKKI Bike Lock.
This chain Lock is made from hardened steel and is covered in fabric sleeve to avoid the chain scratching your bike.
It is 61cm long and 6mm thick and is secured by a 4 digit combination which you can set to your own memorable number.
Plus in comes in a choice of red or black.
To buy >>> woom LOKKI Bike Lock
Lilo and Stitch Holdems
From £17.99
Give your tech-loving tween a fun, practical gift with the Stitch Holdem.
This versatile holder ensures a secure fit for your smartphone and earbuds and is perfect for Stitch Fans.
There are lots of Stitch designs to choose from, including Underpants Hero Stitch mini holder (pictured), Badness Level Stitch, Sunset Stitch and Loved-up Stitch.
To buy >>> Lilo and Stitch Holdems
Spotty Otter Adventure Unlined Waterproof Jacket
£90.00
For those who love outdoor adventures, the Spotty Otter Adventure Unlined Waterproof Jacket is a must.
It features the 4-way comfort stretch Ottertex® 10000 waterproof fabric, designed to will keep them toasty dry.
Whilst the smooth Polyamide lining means no bulk, ideal for layering it up in winter or slipping it on to combat summer showers, meaning it is perfect all year round.
The coat comes in a choice of three colours, a detachable peaked hood, taped seams and water-repellent zips.
Plus it is machine washable at 30-40 degrees following care label instructions.
To Purchase >>> Spotty Otter Adventure Unlined Waterproof Jacket
Voyager Kids Scarf, Little Hotdog Watson
£26.00
Help your stylish little one stay warm with the Voyager Kids Scarf from Little Hotdog Watson.
These plush scarves are super soft, feature faux fur with a thick pile and are lined for extra warmth.
Fastened by looping pompom ends, there are no tricky knots to tie and they always look great. They have been designed to be worn under or overcoats.
The Voyager Kids Scarves come in a choice of six colours and are available for kids from 3 to 10 years.
To buy >>> The Voyager Kids Scarf from Little Hotdog Watson
Baylis & Harding Beauticology Sprinkled with Love Gift Set
Credit – Baylis & Harding
£7.00
You’re never too old for a nice bubble bath and tweens love the Baylis & Harding Beauticology Sprinkled with Love Gift Set.
It features 2 60ml bath bubbles with Unicorn Candy scent and 3 65g of bath sprinkles featuring Strawberry Stardust and Peppermint Frost.
Each of the bubbles and sprinkles comes in a test tube container with a cute unicorn design.
To buy >>> The Baylis & Harding Beauticology Sprinkled with Love Gift Set
Grace & Stella Rainbow Bath Bomb
£19.99
Another cute bath product for kids who like to pamper themselves is the Grace & Stella Rainbow Bath Bomb.
Infused with shea butter and argan oil, the bath bomb effortlessly dissolves grime and leaves the bath squeaky clean.
Packed with high concentrations of fatty acids and vitamins for truly nourished, radiant skin, the blend of coconut oil and shea butter acts like a moisture magnet, locking in hydration for hours.
The bath bomb is available in a 1-pack and a 4-pack.
To Purchase >>> Grace & Stella Rainbow Bath Bomb
Wicked Movie 2026 Personalised Square Calendar
Price: £16.99
For tweens who love the Wicked movies, this personalised 2026 calendar is a magical Christmas gift. Featuring vibrant imagery inspired by the film, each month brings a splash of sparkle to their room. With plenty of space to note down school events, birthdays, and holiday plans, it’s as practical as it is fun.
What makes this calendar extra special is the personalisation option — you can add the tween’s name to the cover, turning it into a keepsake they’ll treasure all year.
Perfect for young fans who love music, drama, and a bit of everyday enchantment.
To buy >>> Wicked For Good Calendar
Emma and Bob, By Agnes Horvath
£11.99
The story of Emma and Bob will help guide kids in learning that they are perfect and wonderful just the way they are!
A Golden Wizard Book Prize Winner 2024, Emma and Bob’s ordinary holiday becomes extraordinary.
In addition to enjoying time at the beach, in the forest and at home, Gran explains to them ‘the endless cycle of life’ and the importance of ‘self-kindness’, ‘positive thinking’, ‘listening to your heart’ and ‘being present’.
Aimed at readers aged 9 years and over.
To buy >>> Emma and Bob, by Agnes Horvath
Grave Yard Girls, 1-2-3-4, I Declare a Thumb War, By Lisi Harrison & Daniel Kraus
£12.00
Credit Union Square & Co
From £9.90
1-2-3-4, I Declare a Thumb War is a slightly scary, extremely addictive, contemporary book series for kids aged 9 to 12 years.
Part mystery and part tale of friendship centred around five young teen girls in for the fright of their lives.
Meet Whisper, Frannie, Sophie, Gemma, and Zuzu: five friends who tell eerie tales by night and navigate middle school drama by day.
In Misery Falls, Oregon, it is the 100th anniversary of the electrocution of the town’s most infamous killer, Silas Hoke, and the town is abuzz.
When a mysterious text message leads the girls to the cemetery—where Silas Hoke is buried! — life can’t get any creepier.
Except, yes, it can, thanks to the surprise storyteller who meets them at the cemetery, inspiring the first-ever meeting of the Graveyard Girls.
1-2-3-4, I Declare a Thumb War is packed full of frights, friendships, and a mystery you won’t soon forget.
To Buy >>> Grave Yard Girls I Declare A Thum War
Trying To Make The World A Better Place, Diana Holborn
Credit Diane Holbourn
£9.99
Looking for a new book for your tween, Trying To Make The World A Better Place is the first book in Becky Bexley’s genius child series.
Even from the moment she was born, it was clear that Becky Bexley was not like other children.
Now she’s in secondary school, often seeming wiser than her teachers. She does her best to help people, whether they like it or not.
She has advice for her teachers when they want to give up smoking, gives a boy advice he uses to stop himself from being teased, and even gives the headmaster some advice on improving the school’s anti-bullying strategy.
She helps people outside school too, including rescuing her mum from a con artist, and she even gets to go to the White House, where she ends up giving the president advice about his behaviour
But will a few tactless remarks she makes and their own fierce disagreements, unwittingly stirred up by some of the insights she tries to pass on ruin her efforts?
Becky’s advice is based on genuine therapy techniques and psychological researc,h offering stories that kids can relate to.
To purchase >>> Trying To Make The World A Better Place
The Legend of Childer’s Forest, Gillian Young
Credit Wyre Owl Books
£10.99
Younger tweens can go on an adventure with Poppy the golden retriever with her younger sister Devon.
When a family of rabbits are driven from their home, Poppy and Devon make it their mission to help.
Their quest takes them to Childer’s Forest, the site of ancient and mysterious events. So, when the safety of their human brother, Jack, is also threatened, Poppy and Devon call on the famous Legend of Childer’s Forest for help.
The book is aimed at readers aged 7 to 9 years.
To Purchase >>> The Legend of Childer’s Forest from Gillian Young
Discover >>> Christmas Gifts For teens
