Holiday Gift Guides
The Ultimate List of Gifts for Big Kids in 2026
When it comes to gifts for big kids, it’s all about what’s “cool.” My oldest is definitely a big kid now, and my middle is starting to get into big kid stuff too. Around this age, their interests start to shift away from little kid toys and closer to the teenage years, but they still love to play. I focused on kids ages 8 to 10, with a mix of creative, active, and techy picks. Here are the best gifts for big kids in 2026. You can shop the rest of my gift guides here.
Ultimate List of Gifts for Big Kids
As kids grow, their wish lists start to include a mix of creativity, adventure, and a few gadgets. Whether they’re into STEM projects, sports, or making bag charms, the best gifts are the ones that spark their curiosity and keep them busy. I’m still team avoid-video-games-for-as-long-as-possible, but I’ll admit the Switch 2 has won us over for family game nights. This guide has something for every big kid on your list.
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BaubleBar Bag Charm Bead Kit
Bag charms are everywhere right now, and this kit lets big kids design their own. It’s a creative gift that keeps them busy, and they’ll love clipping their creations onto their backpacks.
Crayola Globbles Sticky Squishies
These squishy, sticky balls stick to walls and ceilings when they’re thrown, then slowly peel off. They’re super satisfying to squeeze, and they’re a hit with kids who love fidgets.
Rubik’s Brain Teaser Puzzle Game
Big kids love a challenge, and this Rubik’s puzzle game will keep them thinking. It’s a great screen-free gift for problem solvers that builds patience and logic skills.
LEGO Gingerbread House
This LEGO gingerbread house is such a fun holiday build, and it makes a great decoration once it’s done. It’s a gift they can pull out and display every Christmas.
Crazy Aaron’s Better Butter Thinking Putty
Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty is a classic, and the Better Butter version is extra soft and smooth. It’s so satisfying to stretch and squish, and it’s great for keeping hands busy while they think.
Moose Flipside
Flipside is a quick, easy-to-learn game that big kids can play solo or with friends. It’s small enough to toss in a bag for car rides and trips.
Posca Paint Markers
Posca markers are a favorite with artsy kids, and they work on just about anything, from paper and rocks to shoes and phone cases. The colors are bold and bright, and they’re perfect for customizing their stuff.
Rothy’s Kids Slippers
Rothy’s slippers are cozy, comfy, and machine washable, which every parent will love. They’re perfect for chilly mornings and lounging around the house all winter.
Harry Potter Illustrated Edition by Jim Kay
The illustrated Harry Potter books bring the story to life with gorgeous artwork on nearly every page. It’s the perfect way to introduce big kids to the series, and it’s a beautiful keepsake.
Gui Gui Mega Slime Haul
Slime is still a big kid favorite, and this mega haul comes with so many textures and colors to play with. It’s a guaranteed hit for kids who love all things squishy and sensory.
Razor Scooter
A Razor scooter is a classic gift for big kids. It’s lightweight, sturdy, and folds up easily, so it’s great for zipping around the neighborhood or riding to a friend’s house.
Thousand Helmet
Thousand makes some of the most stylish helmets out there, so kids will actually want to wear it. Pair it with the scooter for a gift that’s fun and safe.
LEGO Star Wars Gingerbread Set
This LEGO set mixes Star Wars and the holidays, and big kids will love building it. It’s a fun gift for Star Wars fans, and it looks great with the rest of your holiday decorations.
Lightro Light-Up Football
This football lights up, so big kids can keep playing catch after it gets dark. It’s perfect for winter evenings in the backyard when it’s dark by dinnertime.
Speks Gump Loop
Speks makes some of the most satisfying fidget toys, and the Gump Loop is a favorite. It’s great for keeping hands busy during homework, car rides, or screen-free time.
Pepper Pong Portable Ping Pong Set
This portable ping pong set turns any table into a ping pong table. It sets up in minutes, so it’s great for family game nights, vacations, and playdates.
Apple Watch
An Apple Watch is a great option for big kids who aren’t ready for a phone. They can call and text family, and you can keep track of where they are, which gives everyone a little more independence.
Hasbro Hypershot
Hypershot is a fast-paced game that big kids can’t get enough of. It’s great for friendly competition with siblings and friends, and it gets everyone off the couch.
Nintendo Switch 2
If you’re ready to introduce gaming, the Switch 2 is the one to get. It’s perfect for multiplayer games with friends and family game nights on the weekends.
Polaroid Go Gen 3 Mini Instant Camera
There’s nothing like an instant photo, and this mini Polaroid is the perfect size for big kids. They’ll love snapping pictures with friends and decorating their rooms with the prints.
The Silent Basketball
This foam basketball bounces almost silently, so kids can dribble inside without driving everyone crazy. It’s a game changer for basketball-obsessed kids during cold and rainy months.
Pottery Barn Kids Cozy Throw
Every big kid needs a cozy throw for movie nights and reading in bed. This one from Pottery Barn Kids is so soft, and you can personalize it with their name.
