37 Must-Have Gifts for Any 11-Year-Old on Your Shopping List

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If you have an 11-year-old on your shopping list you may be keenly aware of just how tricky it can be to pick the perfect gift. Kids these age are no longer little kids, so they've left a lot of those make-believe toys behind in elementary school. And while they're technically pre-teens, they aren't into quite as many of the sophisticated gifts teens are asking for. That being said, there is something uniquely fun about shopping for tweens, because while they have left a lot of the toys of their childhood behind, they're still just kids at heart.

While tweens like a lot of the same gifts you'd buy teens, including expensive tech gadgets and trendy clothes and shoes, they are normally content to have smaller scale versions of those items. And while that's good news for the grown-ups who are footing the bill for their everyday necessities, it's also music to the ears of those on the hunt for the perfect gift for the kid in your life.

Whether you're looking for something to commemorate that big birthday, a toy for the holidays, or something just to let them know you care, there's something for every occasion on our editor-approved list of the best gifts for 11-year-olds.

DIY Wall Collage Kit

This gift will take any bedroom and help transform it to one that reflects the unique personality of the tween living inside of it. The wall collage kit comes with 154 cutouts, 66 letters, 769 sticker, and so much more. Kids can take pick and choose the pieces that they love to make their own masterpieces. Ages 10+

Bluetooth Beanie Hat

Keep kids warm while also letting them rock out to their favorite tunes or podcast with this beanie. Available in eight different colorways, this hat with headphones inside is going to quickly become their must-have bus stop or outdoor accessory. All ages

Stay-N-Play Balance Ball

This balance ball offers tweens a unique way to stay active while sitting at their desks. Whether it's doing homework, playing on their tablet, or just hanging out, this fun chair will keep their bodies busy so their minds can focus. Ages 5+

Family Edition

Tweens are going to love this card game that will leave the whole family in stitches. Created to be used with four to 20 players, this 600-card deck guarantees hours of entertainment. Ages 8+

NeeDoh Nice Cube

Designed to help them chill out, this goo-filled, squishy cube is fun to squish but will always return to its original square shape. Ages 3+

3D Printing Pen

Give the power of creativity when you gift this three dimensional pen. The heat activated device allows tweens to bring their drawings to live using the three different colors of PLA filament included. Comes with a charger, stencil book, and a few starter project ideas, this gift will give the artist in your life a whole new way to create. Ages 8+

Sprocket Portable 2"x3" Instant Photo Printer

Give the 11-year-old in your life the power to print their own photos on the go with this cute pocket sized printer that's iOS and Android compatible. It can instantly turn memories into treasured keepsakes. The photo paper has a sticky back, so it's easy to put these pictures on display after they're printed, too. Ages not listed

Custom Neon Sign

Her very own personalized neon sign — what could be cooler? Plus, the ordering process couldn't be easier. Just choose your color, font shape, and what you'd like it to say, and it ships within two to three days.

Magnetic Fidget Pen

Keep those hands busy with this fun puzzle fidget pen. It allows the user to build different shapes and structures using the magnetic pieces and then can be turned into a regular (and fully functional) pen when it's time to get to work. Ages 8+

Solar Robotic Set

With two levels of construction — including an entry level for those who have never built robotics before and a senior level for those who have some familiarity of the concept — there are plans to build 12 different robots in this set.

Each bot will be powered using solar energy, which it can then use to crawl, roll, and float around. Once they're done playing, these bots can be disassembled so that a totally different robot can be built in its place. Ages 8+

Bean Bag Chair with Drink Holder

What could be better than coming home from a long day at school or a hard morning of practice and kicking back on your own personal chair? With a drink holder and pocket big enough to hold their tablet, you know exactly where you'll be able to find the tween in your life most days when you gift them this oversized bean bag chair. All ages

Level Up! High-Rise Leggings

Whether she's training to be a gymnast or just needs something cozy to wear while heading to the book store, these high-rise leggings are sure to please. Manufactured to reimagine the way athletic wear is designed for young girls and teens, these comfy pants easily go from training to relaxing... all while looking cool. Ages not listed

ATM Piggy Bank

Inspire a lifetime of good saving habits with this digital password-protected bank. The LCD counter lets them know exactly how much money they have stashed away, giving them the ability to track their savings and spending at all once. Ages 3+

RUKUSfx Motion-Controlled Music Mixer

If they're interested in music, this motion-controlled music mixer is a fun way to let them play DJ. By punching, swiping, and twisting this handheld device they can loop and remix 120 pre-loaded custom song tracks. They can even upload additional songs from their favorite artists or use the built-in mic to add their own vocals. No wonder it was a winner in Good Housekeeping's 2023 Best Toy Awards! Ages 6+

DIY Journal Set

Give the pre-teen in your life a place to jot down all of their thoughts and memories with this fun journaling keepsake. The 70 page book comes with paper clips, glue sticks, stickers, and more to help them personalize the book so that the outside reflects all of the uniqueness they've added to the pages inside the book. Ages 8+

Flashing Cube

This electronic game offers a more updated take on the classic Rubik's Cube. The batter powered device helps improve memory, hand-eye coordination, and reaction time thanks to games that test speed, agility, and of course memory. Just don't forget to add some batteries to your shopping cart when gifting this one since the required three AAA's are sold separately. Ages 6+

Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera

With over 32,000 4.5 star reviews on Amazon, it's clear that this instant camera is a fan favorite. It has a macro lens for closeups, a selfie mirror for those all important OOTD shots, and an automatic exposure setting that ensures your 11-year-old will get the right shot with every click. Ages 8+

Lighted Flying Disc

It's a bird, it's a plane, no, it's TOSY! This lighted flying disc is a new take on the classic Frisbee. Perfect for getting kids outside, this gift can be used day or night (thanks to the auto LED light system) and set to any color mode. Ages 10+

Farting Frenchies Card Game

If the name alone doesn't have your tween laughing the game play sure will. This strategic game is all about feeding a collection of cute pups some malodorous food, creating a stinky (yet hilarious) outcome. It can be played with 2 to 4 players, making this a gift the whole family can enjoy. Ages 7+

RELATED: The Best Two-Player Board Games for Adults and Kids

Aurora Sunrise Alarm Clock

Say goodbye to morning battles and hello to a good night's rest with this dimmable alarm clock. The fun designs — there are three magnetic accessories that can turn the circular device into the pet of your child's choice — are just the beginning of everything this gift can do.

It simulates sunrise, offers dual-mood sleep companionship that includes built-in tunes, and it can be hooked up to a Bluetooth to play their own music as well. Age not listed

Happy 11th Birthday

If you are on the hunt for a birthday gift that will make a pre-teen smile then you'll love these novelty socks. They wish wearers a HBD while also letting them know just how awesome you really think they are. Ages 10-12

Origami Puzzle Game

Keep idle hands busy, and creative juices flowing, with this puzzle game that teaches players how to master origami. The paper folding game comes with 100 different puzzles that are based on five different levels of difficulty. Any pre-teen with this game is looking at at least 50 hours of game time which should lead to a whole lot of new skills. Ages 10+

Walkie Talkies

With a nearly two mile range, these two way walkie talkies are a fun way for kids to stay in touch as they're cruising the neighborhood, or even just playing in the yard.

With 20 channels and an attached flashlight, these walkie talkies can be used for hours of fun. Gift one to a friend or keep both together as a set, either way your kid is going to love being able to talk to their pals from a distance. Ages 3+

Trolls Band Together "Hustle" Vegan Lip Balm Set

Inspired by the latest installment of the hit movie series Trolls, this lip balm gift set is a fun (and tasty) way to keep chapped lips at bay. Available in flavors like strawberry milkshake, peach punch, bubblegum, and melon candy, there's a flavor for every tween on your shopping list.

Jellyfish Aquarium

Okay, they're not real jellyfish but the effect is still very cool: They can use an included remote to switch between 15 lighting options and five light modes, then sit back and enjoy watching these digital sea creatures.

Shoe Charms

If they own a pair of Crocs, their look isn't complete without a few well placed Jibbitz (a.k.a. shoe charms). Kids this age love adding different pieces to their shoes to show off their interests, express their own individuality, or to coordinate with their outfits. Pick from lots of 30, 50, or 100 and make sure your Croc fanatic has enough to wear something different every day of the week. Ages 3+

Night Light Bluetooth Speake

Pump up the jams with this five-in-one touch controlled bedside speaker. There's a dimmable color changing light, digital clock (and alarm), and of course, Bluetooth access to play all the greatest hits from any compatible device. Ages 10+

Inflatable Skimobile

If you're gifting to someone who lives in a climate that sees a lot of fresh powder during the winter months, this inflatable skimobile is a must have. The two seater blow up is made for kids but strong enough for grownups to get in on the fun as well. Ages 8+

PYXEL A Coder’s Best Friend

Fun meets learning in this coding robot for kids. Spark new interests or encourage an existing passion for all things STEM with this programable critter using two common classroom coding languages, Blocky and Python.

They'll have the opportunity to teach their robot how to change color, do tricks, and even wag its tail! Ages 8+

Light Box Marquee

Your tween doesn't need to make it to Hollywood to see their name (or anything else for that matter) in lights with this fun lightbox. The color changing box comes with 100 letters and multiple color rooms so it's sure to fit in with any room's aesthetic. Age not listed

TropiCali Beauty Bag

Every pre-teen needs the perfect spot to stash their trinkets, store their jewelry, and organize their makeup. This brightly colored zip up bag has multiple compartments and a clear acrylic bottom that ensures parents will never hear, "I don't know where I put my..." again! Age not listed

Jupiter Jumbo Kick Scooter

With a light-up deck, wheels, and and stem, everyone will be able to see the tween in your life coming when they're cruising around on this two wheel scooter. Available in three different colorways, this a great gift for boys and girls alike — just don't forget to add a helmet to your shopping list. Ages 8+

Deodorant for Teens, Tweens, and Kids

Formulated without aluminum, parabens, or phthalates, this deodorant makes a great starter product for young and sensitive skin. They'll love it for the way it makes them feel confident in their own skin, and grown ups will love it because it keeps tween odors at bay. Ages 8+

Printed Fleece Throw Blanket

There's something wonderful about snuggling up with a soft, plush, blanket. Whether it's for family movie night, reading a book on the couch, or getting a good night's sleep, this throw will definitely have them asking for just five more minutes. Age not listed

Gibbon GiBoard Balance Board

This balance board is a fun way for 11-year-olds improve their coordination, agility, and reflexes. The low-profile of this board makes it a safe starting point for those who are hoping to learn how to skateboard, giving them all of the skills and muscle development they'll need before they head out to the park.

Available in multiple colorways (including our favorite kid-centric space design), tween boys and girls alike will love having one of these at home. All ages

'Can't Get Enough Horse Stuff'

Know a tween who has officially entered their horse era? This book of horse facts — which includes information, cool games, silly jokes, and so much more — will make the perfect stocking stuffer. As an added bonus, it's a screen-free way to get them to spend an afternoon! Ages 7+

Ollyball

For the sports enthusiast there's the Ollyball. This indoor play ball (yes, you read that right!) is designed to help keep impacts soft, even when the ball goes flying around the house. Ages 4+

Shop more toys and gifts for kids

Looking for more of the best gifts for kids? Check out our guides for every age:

• Gifts for babies: Best Baby Gifts | Baby Boy Gifts | Baby Girl Gifts | Best Gifts for 6-Month-Olds

• Gifts for toddlers: Gifts for 1-Year-Olds | Gifts for 2-Year-Olds

• Gifts for preschoolers: Gifts for 3-Year-Olds | Gifts for 4-Year-Olds | Gifts for 5-Year-Olds

• Gifts for big kids: Gifts for 6-Year-Olds | Gifts for 7-Year-Olds | Gifts for 8-Year-Olds | Gifts for 9-Year-Olds | Gifts for 10-Year-Olds | Best Gifts for Girls | Best Gifts for Boys

• Gifts for teens: Best Gifts for Teens | Best Gifts for Teen Girls | Gifts for Teen Girls on Amazon | Best Gifts for Teen Boys | Best Stocking Stuffers for Teens

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