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Parents share the toys, books, games, and gifts that keep their picky tweens engaged.
Parents / Brian Kopinski
Parents / Brian Kopinski
Welcome to the tween years.
To find the best gifts for 9-year-olds, we went straight to the source: kids and their parents.
We also reviewed major trends on social media and applied our insider knowledge of the toy industry.
Kids can unplug, and parents can soak up this time before the teen phase hits.
We love classic outdoor toys likebikesandskateboardssince they double as a means of transportation.
Educational Gifts
Learning is a 9-year-olds full-time job.
Add some extra value to playtime with gifts that have an educational component.
Consider ascience kitthat teaches physics concepts in an age-appropriate way.
Or, for budding architects and engineers, you cant go wrong with a funLego set.
Arts and Creative Gifts
Give the kids in your life a creative outlet with a mess-freeart kit.
We like customizable gifts, like a bracelet that says their name or a belt bag with different patches.
If you prefer a safer option, classic Converse shoes are always in style.
We chose a platform version of the old-school shoe for a more modern look.
Tech Gifts
Tech-savvy kids will enjoy getting to explore their interest in an age-appropriate way.
For example, a digital pet blends a love of technology with whimsical play.
Unique Gifts for 9-year-olds
Looking for something a little outside the box?
Consider a more niche gift, like a meal delivery service with kid-friendly global recipes.
Plus, cooking together is a great screen-free bonding opportunity.
Factors to Consider
Who We Are
Anja Webbis an associate editor atParents.
She has over eight years of editorial experience.