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Tweens are those individuals that fall between child and teenager — think between the ages of 9 and 12. The concept of a “tween” encapsulates this super fun and awkward stage of not being a grown-up, but 100% thinking you are (until it’s time to take out the trash or clean the kitchen, of course).
But if you ask us, tweens get a bad rap. The truth is, this can be an exciting time not just for them, but also for you, the adults in their life. Though it’s not all sunshine and roses, the other side of the surly, salty coin of tweendom is a brain bursting with new ideas and a kid ready for a new range of experiences and adventures.
We’ve put together a list of gifts for tween boys that they’ll actually find useful. That doesn’t mean you can’t opt for a classic pair of socks, but there are other options out there that’ll strike their fancy. Also, let’s be honest: When you asked them what they wanted, they either said “I don’t know” or ticked off a whole bunch of items that require payment plans. We tried to balance things we know are popular with tween boys — gaming, sports, and electronics — with gifts that will expand their horizons while keeping them engaged. Happy shopping!
For the tween boys who like sports, this arcade-style basketball hoop game will be a slam dunk. Players can choose between 10 different modes to play with family and friends when the competitive itch strikes. The battery-powered hoop set can be used indoors on a rainy day or outside during the summer and is made with durable steel and nylon designed to last for years ahead.
Release your tween boy’s inner Viking or ninja with this set. Throw (plastic!) axes at the bristled target, solo or against a friend. The set includes three throwing axes and a bristle target board.
Everyone loves sleep, especially tween boys who are out playing with their friends, doing homework, or just enjoying life. This larger-than-life dog bed is designed for humans with a vegan fur exterior and a 360-degree supportive plush pillow bolster for optimal comfort. Plus, there’s a side pocket big enough to hold those nighttime essentials, like a Nintendo Switch or favorite book, for easy access.
Gel Blaster The Supersized Gel Blaster Surge XL
Let the games begin! Tweens can get their competitive juices flowing with this supersized gel blaster. They can select from three modes — single shot, triple round burst, and auto and can reach targets up to 150 feet away. Additionally, it can be connected via Bluetooth to a smartphone for real-time updates and feedback on accuracy and technique for a more optimal playing experience.
For the tween boy who wants to keep the status of having the best bedroom decor, this neon effect frame is the perfect gift. With three bright pens, individuals can jot down thoughts, messages, and other fun doodles to put on display when illuminated. They can even have friends write on it for a collaborative activity so everyone can join in on the fun.
Tween boys with active lifestyles and hormone changes might start to sweat more — and that’s okay. This body spray can help get rid of unwanted body odor with ingredients like aloe vera, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, and zinc, and leave them with a refreshing citrus scent.
It’s small enough to fit in a backpack or gym bag for easy access after sports practice, when a quick refresh may be warranted.
This is a more practical gift for tween boys who spend a lot of time out in the sun, whether that’s playing football or going to the beach. These patches work to block 98 percent of the sun’s rays and stay put for hours at a time on the bridge of the nose or under the eyes.
Tweens are usually interested in participating in the latest trends, especially ones that are good riffs on a throwback, and the Shocktato is one of them.
Pass along the toy (hot) potato and wait in anticipation for a jolt that leaves players laughing and smiling. This game is perfect for birthday parties, game nights, or hang-out sessions where an element of surprise is needed.
This stylish and functional beanie is ideal for tween boys who want to listen to music on the go without headphones.
With Bluetooth connectivity, they can connect it to their smartphone or other electronic devices to take calls and play their favorite tunes. Plus, the headphones are removable, so they can be tossed into the washing machine for an easy clean.
3D printing is the latest craze among kids and tweens alike and this pen combines creativity with technology together for a fun and easy activity. It comes with a silicone drawing surface to bring designs to life, 10 colorful filaments, and a variety of nozzles to alternate between to prevent unwanted clogs and snags.
Backbone Mobile Gaming Controller
Compatible with any iPhone, the Backbone controller allows your tween to play hundreds of titles on a variety of gaming services, including Apple Arcade, Xbox Game Pass, and more.
Add games to your library and record, edit, and share gameplay directly through the Backbone app. You can even voice chat with friends as you play!
The world is opening up to your tween these days. Why not mark the occasion with this map? On its own, it’s a handsome decoration for any room, but as they travel more, they can scratch off the various states and countries they’ve visited for an increasingly vibrant, constantly evolving, interactive, conversation-starting piece!
Big Joe Bean Bag Chair
Perfect for the living room or their bedroom, this super-soft bean bag chair is filled with just the right amount of fluffy, lightweight beans for a comfortable gaming, reading, TV, or homework spot.
As beans compress over time (it happens), keep the seat cozy (and reduce waste) by refilling the shell. New beans are sold separately.
This fast-paced role-playing card game is as brutal as it is adorable! You and up to five friends are bands of heroes who must gather all different card types into your hand to win… or, you can use your cards to defeat three monsters. Easy to learn, but delightfully frustrating to conquer.
Perfect for the tween boy who wants to blow off steam outside or down in the basement, this assortment of obstacles is all he’ll need to build strength and coordination — or just have fun.
The set comes with two slack lines and various accessories and obstacles. With a weight limit of up to 600 pounds, he can even invite over a few friends!
This isn’t a little-kid Lego set. We love this beautiful kit with true-to-form models of real Tokyo landmarks, including Tokyo Tower, Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower, Tokyo Big Sight, Tokyo Skytree, Chidorigafuchi Park, Shibuya Crossing, and more. Each landmark is scaled to give an accurate representation of the comparative size of each.
Whether your tween likes the old-time charm of Fenway Park, the modern grandeur of Yankee Stadium, or just baseball in any way they can get it, this frameable piece of art by Seth and Maddy Lucas is a perfect tribute to America’s pastime.
With all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums artfully rendered, this poster is a great addition to their (probably messy) room.
Exploding Kittens LLC Exploding Kittens Card Game
The hilarious illustration and captions on the cards are half the fun in this Russian Roulette-esque game. Players draw a series of cards to control the action of the game with one goal in mind: Don’t pick up the Exploding Kitten. If you do, don’t worry! There are defuse cards, but use them wisely.
With this monthly subscription box, your tween boy will have a chance to try hands-on projects that promote timeless skills like wood carving, basket weaving, and even scrimshaw. Each crate includes all the materials they’ll need, including reusable tools and easy-to-follow instructions.
Exploding Kittens LLC Bears vs. Babies Card Game
From the creators of The Oatmeal and Exploding Kittens, this game is all about building hideous monsters who eat delicious babies! (Don’t worry: The babies are awful.) It sounds scary (and disturbed), but it’s actually family fun for two to five players. Highly strategic and hilarious, each game only takes about 20 minutes.