When it comes to holiday gifting for big kids, it’s all about what’s “cool.” As a mom to a toddler, 4 year-old and 6 year-old, this is a group I’m not really shopping for this holiday season. Older kids’ interests start to change, and they find themselves shifting away from little kid and closer to their teenage years. So I spent a ton of time putting together a list of the best gifts for big kids, and got approval from my friend who has a big kid. I also talked to my friend who’s a mom of a 9-year-old and got her approval on every item in this post. When putting this holiday gift guide together, I considered age 8-10 (ish) year olds. Here are my 2024 holiday gifts for big kids. You can shop the rest of my gift guides here.
The Ultimate List of Holiday Gifts for Big Kids in 2024
As children grow, their interests evolve, and their wish lists often include a mix of creativity, adventure, and a few gadgets. It’s clear that they’re no longer little kids, but they still love to play. Whether they’re into STEM activities, sports, or making friendship bracelets, the best gifts are those that engage their curiosity. This guide has something for every big kid on your list. I left the very obvious video games out because there are so many systems and I am not only not an expert, but I am team let’s avoid video games for as long as possible because they’re fun but a total time-suck. Here are the top holiday gift ideas that are sure to make their season bright and memorable.
More than 25 gift guides for everyone on your list. Whether you're shopping for the impossible to shop for man, or in-laws, kids, or a coworker, my gift guides have something for everyone.
PB Teen
I can't imagine that this wouldn't be a big hit with pretty much any big kid. It's really cool and good for hours of fun.
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Lego
Lego sets are the perfect gifts for kids of all ages. I've had so much fun working on them with my kids, and I'm an adult. What kid wouldn't love this set? And bonus, it's great for fine motor skills and critical thinking.
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Pottery Barn Kids
Perfect for the Harry Potter fan who wants to show off their house pride in sleep style with cozy pajamas.
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Sphero
This soccer-themed Sphero Mini packs a ton of fun into a tiny programmable robot the size of a ping pong ball. Equipped with a gyroscope, accelerometer, and colorful LED lights, this app-enabled robotic ball lets you drive, play games, and code using a free app.
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Bitzee
So this is like a modern-day tomagotchi that you can touch, and apparently all the 8 year-olds want them.
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Choose Friendship
Perfect for crafty kids, little Swifties, this DIY kit is a fun activity for parents to do with their big kids.
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Kanoodle
Board games are fine, but I prefer brain teasers and interactive games a bit more. If you're looking to engage with your big kid, this one is a great pick for family game night, and is a perfect activity for the whole family.
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amazon
These are cute, cozy, and very affordable.
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Zomi Gems
I feel like every little girl carries these now, and they're really great and practical for kids who tend to lose their stuff.
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Abercrombie
Half zips are very on-trend right now, and if you know a big kid who has a favorite team, or one who is just well-dressed, this half-zip is a great gift.
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The Babysitters Club
Talk about a classic. I used to love these books, and the movie was so good, so this would be such a great gift for young readers who are ready to be introduced to this series.
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Mini Brands
This is a great price, and is great for kids who are creative and into pretend play, too.
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Etsy
I think it's safe to say that every little and big kid I know is a Swiftie, and this hoodie is really cute and a great price, too.
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Gotrax
If this had existed when I was 8 or 9, I would have been terrible at it, but I really would have wanted one. What kid wouldn't love this? And it comes in different colors, so you can choose their favorite.
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Klutz
Another craft kit, I used to love these Klutz sets when I was a kid and love that they're still here! They make such unique gifts that anyone would love.
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Lego
Another Lego set because Legos are the best!
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What Do You Meme?
Games are such a great way to bond as a family, so these are some of my favorite gifts to give. This one has rave reviews, and is such a fun way to spend an evening together as a family.
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Alli Koch
Perfect for creative kids who love to draw, this book will teach them to draw all the things.
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Ooly
I personally give these markers a rave review. They are great for drawing and adult coloring books.
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Toys under $25 for every age, from babies to big kids.
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