80+ Non-Toy Gifts for Kids and Tweens
For many parents, buying gifts for little kids is pretty easy – they love a stuffed animal or basically any toys.
But as kids get a bit older and start to leave the toy era of their life behind, it can get much tricker to find gifts that they’ll enjoy and use without rushing them to grow up too fast.
I asked my Instagram community for non toy gift ideas for tweens and teens that are fun and interactive and the recommendations came FLOODING in! Many of these gifts also lend themselves nicely to hobbies or the exploration of new hobbies.
I hope you’ll find it helpful!
80+ Non-Toy Gifts for Kids and Tweens
CRAFT KITS
Bead Kit
This bead kit has been a huge hit with my girls! It comes with 6000 beads in 24 colors. It also comes with earring hooks, stretchy string, tools and more!
Sculpd Air Dry Clay Kit
Bring the pottery shop to your home! This is a completely unique idea for anyone who loves to create!
Crochet Kit
Aside from the hooks/needles and a skein or more of yarn, crocheting doesn’t really need a whole lot. Plus, when it’s all said and done you end up with something really fun. These Woobles ones are very popular right now, and the advent calendar version even made it on the Everyday Reading Teen and Tween Advent Calendar list.
Paint By Number
For someone who really enjoys painting, paint by numbers are a fun creative outlet. Turn on an audiobook or a mindless show and just start painting. Galison is one of my favorite puzzle brands – so I know these paint by numbers have to be GOOD!
Polymer Clay
Polymer clay is way better than Play-doh because after you create, you pop it in the oven to bake. The clay becomes hard and doesn’t crack or flake. I’ve seen kids make little figurines, keychains, charms – the options are endless.
Mindful Lettering Kit
My teen and tween girls have done the Mindful Lettering Kits and LOVE them! I love them because everything you need comes right to your doorstep: workbook, brush pens, tracing paper, and detailed video tutorials. This keeps them focused for hours!
Advanced Art Supplies: Canvas, Paint, Sketchbook, Pencils
These kind of supplies don’t come cheap and it’s always nice to have something more extravagant than your standard Crayola marker set. And if you haven’t ever tried out Art for Kids on YouTube now is the time to give it a whirl.
Cross Stitch / Needle Felting Kit / Punch Needle Kits
This is such a great year-round hobby. It’s the perfect way to keep yourself entertained during the the long cold days or this summer when you’re home more with more free time to fill!
Building Models
For those with an engineering mind, model building takes a lot of time, focus and patience. But the result is 100% worth it!
Balloon Animal Kit
This sounds like something that could easily turn into a paid job. Get them started with this fun kit!
Plant Terrarium Kit
If you have a kid who already has a green thumb or might be interested in it, grab one of these. This one has terrific reviews, comes with a light and seems like a good fit for those that are on the younger side. This one looks a little more involved for those that are older.
Wood Burning Kit
How cool is this idea?! Definitely something geared for the older crowd for safety reasons. I love the option of being able to configure your own design or use the templates provided.
Carving Kit
A reader recommended this as something her tween son LOVED and I immediately knew it would be a hit. In addition to the carving kit, I would get an extra set of these wood blocks.
Book Nook Kit
This is the full package when it comes to a DIY craft kit! It is very similar to a 3D wooden puzzle, and once built adds a fun whimsical addition to any bookshelf, AND also acts as a little light!
Diamond Painting
My girls love diamond painting and I love that they are mess free. You can get a a diamond painting kit for under $10 and they last for hours. See our favorite diamond painting kits here!
Paper Airplane Kit
Paper airplanes never get old and they REALLY never get old with this fun kit that’s under $6. My sisters and I love making new kinds of paper airplanes and this is great for boys and girls alike.
SUBSCRIPTION
Subscription Boxes
My favorite subscription boxes for teens and tweens are Bookroo, Kiwi Co, Stitchfix, and FabFitFun, but I know there are so many other options out there.
Magazine Subscription
My girls, like many children, LOVE getting mail, and a magazine subscription is a nice (and inexpensive) way to get something fun in the mail every month or every quarter.
SPORTS EQUIPMENT
Pickleball
Pickleball is SO popular right now and I 100% understand why. All you need are paddles and balls, there are free courts popping up everywhere, and it’s a really easy game to learn.
A Basketball Hoop
If you have the space for it, this is a really fun gift that gets your kids outdoors. Or go for a smaller one that you can use inside during the winter (or summer, if you live somewhere crazy hot like Arizona).
Skateboard
I have no experience skateboarding, but this is a great, active option that could provide hours of entertainment!
Rollerblades
One Christmas we got all of the girls roller blades (this K2 brand came highly recommended). All you need are some skates, a helmet and a smooth surface to get going. My favorite thing about roller skating is that you can really get your heart rate up while having a blast!
Pull Up Bar
This sounds like zero fun to me. However, I can definitely see a teenager using this every time they walk by it or having pull up challenges with friends!
Boxing Pad
We’ve been talking about getting a boxing something for years and this one, that syncs to music and mounts on the wall so it doesn’t take up a lot of space, seems perfect! I think this will be very popular for the kids!
ROOM DECOR
Big Mirror
It’s very convenient to have a full length mirror to see if your outfit flows. As kids get older, most of them are experimenting with their style. This is also a terrific way to fill up a big empty wall.
Hanging Basket Chair
I’m never going to say no to another spot to read. We have one on our back porch that gets used ALL OF THE TIME!
Moon Lamp
This lamp is just plain cool and great for both boys and girls. It has 128 different colors to choose from, timers and dimming options. It would be very soothing to go into your room at night and have this already lit up.
Fun Clock
If you’ve been around here for a while you know I’m a huge believer of having your phone charge somewhere that isn’t your bedroom. I’ve used this alarm clock for years and LOVE it! Here are a few more fun ideas if this one is too neutral. This Large digital clock, modern wall clock, Toast Alarm Clock, and Digital Pixel Alarm Clock that is also a Bluetooth speaker.
Wall Calendar
For that organized and scheduled child in your life, this coloring wall calendar is adorable and gives you tons of opportunity to use their creativity.
Organization Items
Speaking of organization, I for one would love to receive this gift. I absolutely love getting organized with these inexpensive drawer dividers and these shelf dividers.
OUTDOOR
Hiking Boots
We live near the mountains and have been taking more and more hikes as the girls have gotten older. I know they would love to have some sturdy, specialized hiking boots to wear.
Fishing Gear
I love the old proverb about teaching a man to fish. Why not teach this concept to your teen, quite literally! If you live in a place close to water this works out really well, they’ll have fun doing it, and it will instill more patience in the process.
Frisbee Golf Equipment
Anyone looking to pick up this hobby and wants others to play with them would be wise to get a whole pack of frisbees. This set has outstanding reviews!
Metal Detector
For the kid bubbling with adventure and curiosity, a metal detector seems like a no-brainer gift idea.
Binoculars
Don’t waste your money on those dinky binoculars and instead get these high quality ones!
Skittle Skatter Yard Game
I have seen this game all over Instagram and it looks like a really great time! Put away those devices, grab a few people and the first to 50 points wins!
Bird Feeder
Birding doesn’t just have to be for the old folk! You might be surprised how into watching birds kids can get. Set out a bird feeder and see what backyard birds frequent your yard. You could go simple, or these ones that attach to your window would give you a really close view.
Gel Blaster Guns
With Nerf guns all the rage, I wouldn’t be surprised if these take off! I have never seen these before, but I am so happy to see that they have a mess-free alternative to a paintball gun.
Professional-Grade Sidewalk Chalk
For the sidewalk chalk artist who is ready to up their game, these professional-grade chalks come in a broad range of colors, and are great for blending. Get ready for some elaborate artwork on your sidewalks!
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Lap Harp
I’ve never dabbled in playing a lap harp, but I’ve heard they are pretty easy to pick up and A LOT cheaper than a real harp.
Steel Drum
Have you ever heard one of these being played? It is quite mesmerizing and a unique musical instrument that not everyone will have.
Kalimba
I have never heard of this before and then I watched the video on Amazon and they are actually really cool and can produce some very good music. This would be perfect for any child who is musical and likes unique things.
Synthesizers
These synthesizers have a very electronic sound to them and would make great space, video game and techno music. Plus they are small enough to fit in your pocket!
Drum Pads
All the reviews say these are amazing for both the drummer and the people living with said drummer. Drum pads would be a good place to start if you have an interested percussionist on your hands.
Record Player
I love that record players have made a resurgence and that today’s musicians are still making vinyl albums. This is such a fun gift to pair with a vinyl from their favorite artist.
Hand Bells
A few years ago, we bought a set of Merry Bells and they have a terrific DVD or digital play-along video with 30 different Christmas songs that have chords – definitely a step up from single note playing! – and come down the screen like Guitar Hero and you play your bell when it hits the line. You can use the code JANSSEN for 10% off them!
STEM KITS
KiwiCo Labs
KiwiCo is my FAVORITE option for a STEM subscription box – they really are the crème de la crème. And it’s the perfect gift that keeps on giving! Their KiwiCo Labs boxes are designed for ages 6-16+ with brand new rebuildable STEM projects. (Plus they have additional digital content to extend learning and STEM skills). Use the code EVERYDAYREADING for 50% off your first box.
Chemistry Set
After seeing this set, I really want one just to see what all 28 experiments are! This set includes real chemicals, test tubes, and safety goggles perfect for the budding scientist who is ready to move on from vinegar and baking soda volcanoes.
Programmable Robot (Sphero Bolt)
It’s a big priority in our house for our girls to learn to code. These coding robots can do so much, and provide an additional way to learn programming in a fun, hands-on way.
Microscope
Do you a curious child who loves to dig deeper? If yes, this microscope would be eye-opening!
3D Printer
I have never heard anyone who owns a 3D printer say they have regretted the purchase. Let your child’s imagination run wild and create all sorts of cool things!
Rock Tumbler
For the kid who always comes home with a pocket full of rocks, this is the best gift! And it’s surprisingly affordable.
TICKETS
Tickets to Plays or Concerts
You can’t beat live theater / music and having tickets for a great production or a favorite artist is a really fun thing to look forward to.
Tickets to a Sporting Event
Whether it’s a professional team or a college team, it’s so fun to go cheer on a sports team! (My pick would be basketball, Bart’s would be football. My girls don’t care as long as we get some concessions).
Movie Theater Tickets
I love a movie at home on the couch as much as anyone, but you just can’t beat the fun of going to an actual movie theater!
Get Out Pass
If there is a Get Out Pass in your area, this would be a fantastic way to explore your own state and try out some new activities. I highly recommend, we have used ours a ton and love it! (You can use code EVERYDAYREADING for 45% off)
LESSONS / CLASSES
Cooking Classes & Cookbook
For the foodie in your life or a child who needs a new hobby, this would be an excellent gift to build on a current hobby or to create a new one! I have a list here of my favorite kid cookbooks if you need some recommendations.
Music Lessons
This is a no-brainer gift for the musical child or a chance for them to try something new. You might even get a little concert out of it to celebrate their accomplishments.
Camera & Photography Class
This would be another fabulous class to gift! Taking pictures is incredibly popular right now and it would be so cool to learn how to get the exact shot you are wanting. I’ve heard these vintage cameras with no screen that can plug into your phone are so much fun!
Art Lessons
There are so many types of lessons out there to fit the interest of any creative child. Think classes for cupcake decorating, sewing, tie dye, hair braiding, painting (my girls loved this watercolor class), calligraphy, etc.
BEAUTY
Skin Care
This is the face wash and moisturizer I love for teens and tweens – affordable, effective and gentle! You can buy it from several different places – the cheapest will likely be directly from the brand since you can use my affiliate code EVERYDAYREADING. Throw in a small pack of face washcloths and you have the perfect gift (use the code JANSSEN15)!
Hairstyling Mannequin
This is a great gift for any girl who loves doing hair or playing with other’s hair. Add on a braiding course and you have yourself a fabulous present!
PRACTICAL NON-TOY
Cozy Blanket
I haven’t met an older kid who doesn’t love a cozy blanket to wrap up in a watch a movie, read or just relax. Use the code BRADSHAW45 for 45% off! (If you are looking for a more inexpensive option – these look super cozy, with plenty of color options)
Beach Towels
I bought some of these Geometry beach towels last year and I can’t see us using a different kind ever! They dry so quickly and fold down so well, making them incredibly easy to transport. Plus their prints are really cute! Use my code JANSSEN15
Stationary / Office Supplies
Why is it so fun to have your own stash of adorable office supplies (markers, bullet journals, etc)?! It would make any child feel so official, especially if they love writing notes or letters.
Bathrobe
One of the worst parts of getting out of bed or the shower is going from complete warmth to cold. Having a nice robe to wrap up in solves that problem!
Travel Gear
We have been traveling with the girls since they were young, but now that they are older, they are in charge of their own luggage. I love the idea of a gift of travel gear – luggage, a luggage tag, and packing cubes would be a great starting point. This is a gift that they will continue to use, even after they leave the house.
Watch
When my kids got old enough to understand the concept of time, they naturally always wanted to know what time it was. That’s when I knew a watch was needed. If you don’t want a digital option, these ones are SO good, waterproof, have alarms and timers and are straight up great quality. If you are looking for a more digital option, these ones have great reviews.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES
Rokr 3D Wooden Puzzles
These are like a puzzle and model combined into one! I love that they have function even after they are put together.
LEGO Icons Set
Some people like to build Legos to play with them after and some like to build and put them on display. These icon sets definitely fall into the later.
Board Game
I couldn’t do a gift post for kids without mentioning games! Our favorite family board games are here, but the specific one suggested was Rush Hour, which I’m now dying to try!
Reading Pillow
A reading pillow wasn’t on my radar, but after looking at the images and color options I think everyone in my family would love one of these!
TOOLS
Tool Set
Whether you plan to be a DIYer or not, this basic tool set would come in handy for just about anyone at some point in their life.
ChompSaw
Definitely one of the priciest things on this list and looks like it would be worth the splurge! A completely safe cardboard cutting mechanism for kids. My girls would use this like crazy!
Soldering Kit
If you don’t know what soldering is, you are in good company. It’s to process of joining two metals together with a substance called solder. Not quite the same as welding , but along the same vein. Fabulous idea for those that love hands on projects.
Sewing Machine
Let’s face it, sewing machines are expensive! So before I dive into such a hefty expense, I would want to try out the hobby with one of these cheaper options.
MISCELLANEOUS
Cotton Candy Maker
Analese bought one of these for her 11 year old last year and it has been a huge hit!! They pull it out any time friends come over and everyone always thinks it’s the coolest thing! The other perk – it only takes ONE jolly rancher to make an individual sized cotton candy (not the fair sized).
Video camera
Camcorders used to be all the rage and now you can get one for under $60! A terrific baby step to taking videos, but without having a phone.
Gibbon GiBoard (Balance Board)
Slack lining for inside! Have your child work on their balance and coordination all year long.
RC Cars/ Boats
The remote control car and boat game has really improved in the last decade or so. There are so many quality options that can do all sorts of crazy stunts and tricks. A fun non-toy, toy for an older kid.
A Large quantity of their favorite food
This is a fun idea and one that is sure to be a home run gift.
Any other great ideas for non toy gifts for kids? I’d love to hear!
I got my daughter a punch needle art coaster set. Also latch hook was something she enjoyed with she was a tween.