Kids 8 and up can admittedly be a little more difficult to shop for. They have more sophisticated requests each year. Below are a list of what I have personally found to be some great gift ideas for kids 8 and older. Of course, use your judgement as maturity level varies for each individual kid.

*Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. We might make a small commission on purchases. However, all products are recommended based upon my own honest opinions.

Active toys

Hoverboard: I’m not gonna lie, I was scared to get this for my kid. I hesitated buying her one. Once I finally bought one for her birthday (because that was the only thing on her list), I made her wear a bike helmet until she got the hang of it. I bought this particular brand and it has been good so far.

There are standard models, then there are models with lights and music. See the links below.

Pogo Stick: An oldie but a goodie! It’s funny how some toys are timeless.

Make sure to pay attention to weight limits. I’ve provided examples of one for kids 40 to 80 pounds, and one that holds more weight.

Razor Scooter: This is another timeless toy. Of course, it’s *very* updated. Just like hoverboards, this one has a models with lights and one with no lights.

Plasma Cars: Guys, these things are so much fun! We bought them for the kids, but the truth is…adults can ride them too. It’s not unusual to find us racing in the backyard. Draw start and finish lines on the cement with chalk and start your engines!

Electronics

Nintendo Switch: ALL of the kids in my family are asking for this one. I have to admit, it’s pretty cool. I like that we can take it on a road trip. My youngest was playing with another kid while waiting for her sister during an after-school activity.

Nintendo Switch games: These are games that the kids in my family say kids like. I am by no means an expert ;): Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Mario Odyssey, Splatoon 2, Nintendo Lab-O Creator, Fortnite, Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Mario Tennis Aces

Nintendo DS: This one is another portable gaming system. Move over Gameboy 😉

Chromebook: Both of my kids requested this as a present during their second grade year. These are widely used at school and a great tool for the kids.

Some important things to keep in mind when looking for a Chromebook are screen size and battery life. I am by no means an electronics expert (the hubby always picks the electronics). I linked to this Chromebook because of the screen size and battery life.

Kindle Fire for kids: Just like the Chromebook, this is excellent for the kids. Mine read books, play games, and take pictures/videos with theirs. They are great for road trips too.

Non-Electronic Activities and Games

Science Kits: I love these kits because it keeps the kids entertained and gets them using their brains.

Nail Art Design Kits and Supplies: I think this one is self explanatory. It’s just fun 🙂

Squishies, slime kits, and kinetic sand: My kids told me I *had* to add these, so here you go.

Learn How to Draw Books: If your kids are interested in art and drawing, this gift is awesome! It’s really neat to see them practice and see the result of their efforts.

Activities: Take a look at Goldstar! I have given my kids the gift of experiences for the past few years. In the past, we have gone to see plays (like the Panto in Pasadena). I recently took them to the Museum of Illusions and it was a big hit! Read about our experience at The Hollywood Museum of Illusions here. Another great experience would be the Chinese Lantern Festival at the Pomona Fairplex. You can also read about our experience at The Chinese Lantern Festival here.

There you have it! I hope that you found this list useful!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR OTHER GIFT GUIDES:

Excellent Gift Ideas for Toddlers and Preschoolers!

Book Gift Ideas for Kids of All Ages

Gift Ideas that Everyone Will Love

The Ultimate List of Adult-Friendly Kid Movies

I will have some more gift guides coming out soon. Stay tuned!