121 Gifts for 11 Year Olds

11 year olds are just starting to move into the dreaded phase of puberty. They start becoming increasingly moody, their interests are constantly changing, and they explore and define their identity largely via external influences. These are important factors to keep in mind when finding the best gifts for 11 year olds.

Choosing the Best Gifts For 11 Year Olds

At the age of 11, there are many factors at play internally and externally in the development of kids this age. Internally, they are starting to develop a greater sense of who they are by exploring various styles and are strongly influenced by their environment, friends, clothes, popular culture, and their hobbies. So of course, when finding the best gifts for 11 year olds, you can find inspiration in what their friends are into, what sort of clothes they typically choose to wear, what they’re watching or listening to, and what they enjoy doing in their free time.

However, keep in mind that they can be fickle and erratic at this age too, as they’re testing and trying out different interests until something sticks. So what excites them one day, might bore them the next. Don’t be afraid to introduce them to new topics, styles, and interests!

How We Identified the Best Gifts For 11 Year Olds

According to Manhattan-based social worker and psychotherapist Alyson Cohen, 11 year olds are “not as excited to spend time at home with family and are really looking to blossom out into the world.” So we selected items that could encourage this instead of trying to keep them cooped up at home.

We also opted for gifts that will support the exploration of their identity and self-expression, such as body markers and a vlogging kit. Finally, since their interests are constantly changing and developing, we listed products that could encourage a whole range of interests, whether it’s photography, science, music, sports, or more.

Tips for Buying the Best Gifts For 11 Year Olds

1. Keep it age appropriate
   Remember that, although they’re on the brink of puberty, 11 year olds are still considered kids. So don’t buy them gifts that are too adult or grown up and rather focus on items that will encourage them to still be kids and enjoy childhood.
2. There’s no right or wrong
   Since they’re constantly adapting their interests, there’s really no way of knowing whether the gift you buy will be right or wrong. Have fun with it and maybe help push them out of their comfort zones with whatever you buy.
3. Help them navigate the world
   As 11 year olds gain more confidence and curiosity to learn more about the world around them, get them gifts that will act as resources to help them navigate their environment and social, emotional, and physical growth.