12-year-old boys are at a sensitive age when they are discovering their preferences and are open to new and exciting ideas. And because every boy is different, there’s no formula when it comes to picking the right gift. We’ve tried to make this easier for you by outlining gift ideas that’ll get his nod of approval.
Choosing gifts for 12-year-old boys
Child development experts will tell you that at 12 years old, boys are not yet fully in the throes of teenagehood but are standing right at the precipice of it. As a result, you will find it is no longer so easy to buy them things since they are quite opinionated about their likes and dislikes.
Experts suggest that you try as much as possible to keep up-to-date with all their emerging interests so you remain confident in knowing what they like. Doing this will make your shopping experience easier and more fruitful.
According to human development markers, boys between the ages of 10 and 12 become more independent and start to feel the need to belong which puts them at risk of peer pressure. They suggest getting them gifts that are trendy yet honor their individuality. That way, you meet their need to fit in while helping them preserve their sense of self.
How we identified gifts for 12-year-old boys
We considered toys that will help boys this age use up their increasing energy levels such as a big-boy bicycle, a kickball, or a splash slide. We also factored in age-appropriate board games to help them further develop their growing capacity to think logically, and engage in abstract thinking as well as problem-solving.
We looked at gifts that’ll speak to their individual personality and also appeal to their peers. So tech gadgets like a mini-drone with a camera or anything that brings on the laughs like a hilarious board game or gizmos related to the latest in the gaming world are some gift ideas we chose. We also factored in that these types of toys will help boys this age develop their social skills as they interact with others.
Tips for getting gifts for 12-year-old boys
- Ask for help
Your 12-year-old’s world is diabolically different from the one you knew at his age so do your best to step into his world. You could ask his peers or parents who have children his age what toys are popular for a boy his age and then use this information to help you make the right decision. - Make it a teaching experience
Consider a gift that will have a permanent, positive impact on your 12-year-old boy such as a puppy. Child development experts have constantly outlined the important life lessons that having a pet can teach your child. From patience to compassion to responsibility, a pet is the type of gift that’ll teach your boy lessons that’ll stay with him for life. - Know his interests
Is your 12-year-old boy into the arts or sports, an avid reader, a gamer, a gifted chess player, or into rock climbing? What does he truly enjoy doing? Get the answer to this question and you are well on your way to getting him a gift that’s perfect for him.
