Unique Gifts for Kids Ages 9–12: 10 Picks
Consoles, coding robots, science kits and games for tweens. Star ratings appear only where we found a sourced, non-Amazon rating; prices are approximate at time of writing.
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The big one
Nintendo Switch 2
around $499 (US list price) at time of writing
Why it's a good gift: The console every kid is asking for this year.
Most-wanted collectible
Pokémon TCG Elite Trainer Box (current set)
around $50–$60 list (resale prices vary) at time of writing
Why it's a good gift: Packs, sleeves, dice and a storage box; Pokémon cards are among the most-searched kids' gifts this year.
Best e-reader for tweens
Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Kids
Price varies see current price at the retailer
Why it's a good gift: Waterproof Paperwhite with a kid cover and parental controls.
Best STEM kit
Elenco Snap Circuits Classic SC-300
Price varies see current price at the retailer
Why it's a good gift: 300+ projects: radios, alarms, motors and more.
Best long project
National Geographic Hobby Rock Tumbler Kit
Price varies see current price at the retailer
Why it's a good gift: Turns rough rocks into polished gems, with grit and jewelry settings.
Photo: PRNewsfoto/SpheroBest coding robot
Sphero Mini Activity Kit
Price varies see current price at the retailer
Why it's a good gift: App-driven robot ball that teaches coding through games.
Best instant camera
Fujifilm instax mini 12 Instant Camera
around $80–$94 (Target listing) at time of writing
Why it's a good gift: Prints credit-card-size photos in about 90 seconds; built-in selfie mirror.
Best game night
Exploding Kittens Card Game
Price varies see current price at the retailer
Why it's a good gift: The fast, silly card game kids and parents both like.
Best big-kid scooter
Razor A5 Lux Kick Scooter
around $130 (Razor list; often less) at time of writing
Why it's a good gift: Big 8-inch wheels for a smoother ride, riders up to 220 lb.
Best mini speaker
JBL Go 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker
around $40 (Best Buy listing) at time of writing
Why it's a good gift: Pocket-size waterproof speaker with surprisingly big sound.
Prices change often, especially around Black Friday; check the retailer. Picks marked with a rank come from our researched top 10 lists.
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