36 cool gifts for the tween who’s impossible to shop for
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Not quite a teenager, yet no longer a little kid, an 11-year-old still wants to be surprised when it comes to gifts — they just don't want the typical toys they used to receive.
To simplify the struggle that is shopping for tweens, we've rounded up a list with everything you need to make an 11-year-old smile. From an electric powered scooter to a new way to play Pictionary, these picks won't disappoint!
To quickly jump to the category you're looking for click on the links below or keep scrolling to see all 36.
Don’t forget to check out Shop TODAY’s 2020 Gift Guide to find the perfect present for everyone on your list!
Bestselling gifts for 11-year-olds
1. Carpool Karaoke Microphone
Carpool Karaoke Microphone
Carpool Karaoke Microphone $59.99 at Nordstrom
Carpool Karaoke Microphone $39.99 at Best Buy
Carpool Karaoke Microphone $62.99 at JCPenney
Host your very own karaoke jam with this Bluetooth-enabled portable microphone.
2. White Ivory Faux Fur Inflatable Chair
Faux Fur Inflatable Chair
Faux Fur Inflatable Chair $59.99 at Amazon
Faux Fur Inflatable Chair $49.99 at Bed Bath & Beyond
Faux Fur Inflatable Chair $59.99 at Overstock
This faux fur chair is easy to inflate and perfect to sit in when studying or playing video games.
3. Echo Dot
Echo Dot
The new Echo Dot with LED clock display is here — and the possibilities are endless. Your kids can ask for the weather, play music or set an alarm clock to get up for school!
4. Funko Disney The Haunted Mansion
Funko Disney The Haunted Mansion
Funko Disney The Haunted Mansion $19.56 at Amazon
Explore all the classic rooms of the ghost-infested manor from the famed attraction at Disney World in Orlando. Go on a quest of the festivities-filled ballroom to the attic and out to the graveyard and beyond in search of spirits.
5. UpWords
UpWords Board Game
One-up your opponent in this exciting word-stacking game.
Best toys for 11-year-olds
1. GT Kids' Berm BMX Bike
GT Kids' Berm BMX Bike
GT Kids' Berm BMX Bike $179.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods
For little racers, this BMX bike will allow your kids to ride on all terrains.
2. "How to Train Your Dragon" Hatching Toothless
"How To Train Your Dragon" Hatching Toothless
"How To Train Your Dragon" Hatching Toothless $59.93 at Walmart
"How To Train Your Dragon" Hatching Toothless $59.99 at Kohl's
"How To Train Your Dragon" Hatching Toothless $59.99 at Barnes and Noble
Kids love a surprise! Here's a chance to hatch and train their very own baby dragon Toothless from "How to Train Your Dragon." Feed Toothless, teach him how to fly and watch him come to life with movements and interactive sounds!
3. Lego "Overwatch" Set
Lego "Overwatch" Set
This cool Lego set is based on the action game, "Overwatch."
4. Razor Hovertrax Hoverboard LED Lights
Razor Hovertrax Prizma Hoverboard with LED Lights
Razor Hovertrax Prizma Hoverboard with LED Lights $179.99 at Amazon
Razor Hovertrax Prizma Hoverboard with LED Lights $158.00 at Walmart
This hoverboard is super fun with an LED light show and it can reach speeds up to 9 mph!
5. Huffy Scooter
Huffy Scooter
This scooter is easy to use with its non-slip resin deck and best of all? It’s foldable! Recommended up to 200 pounds.
Best games for 11-year-olds
1. Not Parent Approved
Not Parent Approved: A Fun Card Game for Kids, Tweens, Teens, Families and Mischief Makers
Not Parent Approved: A Fun Card Game for Kids, Tweens, Teens, Families and Mischief Makers $25.99 at Amazon
Don't let the name fool you, both kids and parents will love playing this fun card game. It's like Cards Against Humanity, but for a younger crowd and it's sure to fill your game nights with plenty of giggles.
2. Pictionary Air
Pictionary Air
Pictionary came out with a take on the popular game — but this time they can draw in the air! Have fun taking turns drawing the clues while your teammates guess the images.
3. Back to the Future: Dice Through Time Board Game
Back to the Future: Dice Through Time Board Game
Back to the Future: Dice Through Time Board Game $29.99 at Target
Help Doc and Marty repair the space-time continuum before the paradoxes unravel the very fabric of the universe in this board game from the iconic movie, Back to the Future!
4. Marvel Battle World
Marvel Battle World Mega Pack
Marvel Battle World Mega Pack $22.73 at Amazon
Marvel Battle World Mega Pack $24.99 at Target
Marvel Battle World Mega Pack $23.47 at Walmart
Pick your favorite Hero, rescue your friends and win battles to defeat Thanos!
5. Rubik's Connected - The Connected Electronic Cube
Rubik's Connected - The Connected Electronic Cube
Rubik's Connected - The Connected Electronic Cube $59.95 at Amazon
Rubik's Connected - The Connected Electronic Cube $49.95 at Go Cube
Here’s a reinvented version of the Rubik’s Cube only this one is interactive! This Rubik’s cube is an app-enabled cube puzzle game that connects to your phone or tablet through Bluetooth and allows you to learn how to solve the Rubik’s, play mini-games and battle with other cubers around the world.
Best tech gifts for 11-year-olds
1. Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera $69.00 at Amazon
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera $69.00 at Urban Outfitters
Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera $69.99 at Target
Encourage them to explore their artsy side with this gift. They can take selfies, close-up shots, portraits and more on this mini camera.
2. Samsung Galaxy Ear Buds
Samsung Galaxy Buds
Samsung Galaxy Buds $79.99 at Amazon
Samsung Galaxy Buds $109.99 at Target
Samsung Galaxy Buds $79.00 at Walmart
Wireless Galaxy buds are great for listening to music and talking on the phone.
3. Sphero Edu
Sphero Edu SPRK+
The Sphero is way more than just a robot. Paired with the Sphero app, your child can learn how to program it to perform different activities like having a dance party.
4. Beats Solo3 Headphones
Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones
Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones $199.99 at Target
Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones $139.00 at Walmart
Beats Solo3 Wireless Headphones $139.00 at Best Buy
These headphones can last all day with up to 40 hours of battery life. They can control their music and activate Siri — all without touching their phone!
5. Powerbeats Pro
Powerbeats Pro
Enjoy your favorite tunes, tv shows and conversations with the Powerbeats Pro wireless headphones. These headphones also have active noise cancellation which is perfect to use when remote learning. The headphones also intuitively shut off when folded.
Best clothing and jewelry gifts for 11-year-olds
1. Whaline Blush Theme Hair Scrunchies
Whaline Blush Theme Hair Scrunchies
Whaline Blush Theme Hair Scrunchies $8.99 at Amazon
Scrunchies have made a major comeback as a go-to hair accessory. These ones come in 12 shades, ranging from peach to white.
2. Kidpik Subscription Box
Kidpik Fashion Box
Kidpik Fashion Box $39.50 at Amazon
This clothing subscription box takes the guesswork out of buying for your tween. Each box contains three or four items, creating a fully coordinated outfit right down to the shoes! Sign up for a monthly subscription and get a new outfit each month. The first box is just $39, while subsequent boxes are $60 and ship every two months.
3. Double Hearts Emoji Ring
Double Hearts Emoji Ring
Double Hearts Emoji Ring $39.00 at Experimental Jewellry Club
They'll have fun wearing their favorite emojis as rings!
4. BearPaw Loki Slipper
BearPaw Loki Slipper
BearPaw Loki Slipper $49.99 at Amazon
BearPaw Loki Slipper $49.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods
BearPaw Loki Slipper $44.99 at Famous Footwear
These suede and sheepskin slippers can be worn inside or outside year-round.
5. Chalk of the Town Chalkboard T-Shirt Kit for Kids
Chalk of the Town Chalkboard T-Shirt Kit for Kids
Chalk of the Town Chalkboard T-Shirt Kit for Kids $24.95 at Amazon
Add a little chalk and they can customize their own T-shirt. From writing their favorite phrases to drawing a picture, the sky's the limit!
6. Fearless Stretch Bracelet
Fearless Stretch Bracelet
Fearless Stretch Bracelet $20.00 at Nordstrom
This beaded stretch bracelet has the perfect mantra for your 11-year-old who is fierce and boldly and ready to conquer the world!
7. Vegan-Pouch-Favorite Daughter
Vegan-Pouch Favorite Daughter
Vegan-Pouch Favorite Daughter $24.00 at Los Angeles Trading Co.
This Vegan Pouch is perfect for small items that get lost easily. Available in four colors.
8. Swarovski Bracelet
Swarovski Bracelet
Swarovski Bracelet $74.25 at Amazon
Swarovski Bracelet $99.00 at Nordstrom
Swarovski Bracelet $99.00 at Swarovski
This Swarovski bracelet has three crystals; blue, soft purple, and clear hues. They sparkle on a shimmering chain and fasten with an adjustable sliding closure.
9. Freedom Moses Sandals
Freedom Moses Sandals
Freedom Moses Sandals $29.00 at Bandier
Freedom Moses Sandals $40.00 at Shopbop
Freedom Moses Sandals $40.00 at Solid & Striped
Freedom Moses sandals are an update on your classic, summer-friendly style with its brightly colored, tie-dye design.
Best unique gifts for 11-year-olds
1. Hydro Flask Tumbler Cup
Hydro Flask Tumbler Cup
This cool tumbler by the very popular Hydro Flask brand keeps beverages cold up to 24 hours or hot for up to six hours.
2. Funko The Child
Funko The Child
Funko The Child $15.99 at Amazon
Now you can have your very own “Baby Yoda” but his real name is “The Child” and he stands almost 4 inches tall. A perfect gift for a Star Wars fan.
3. Casio Casiotone Keyboard
Casio Casiotone Keyboard
Casio Casiotone Keyboard $119.00 at Amazon
Casio’s next generation of Casio tone keyboards are ultra-compact and features 400 tones and 75 rhythms. It comes in black, white or red. There’s also a handle so you can take it wherever you go!
4. Slackers Ninjaline
Slackers Ninjaline
Slackers Ninjaline $89.99 at Amazon
Slackers Ninjaline $99.00 at Wayfair
Slackers Ninjaline $109.99 at Fat Brain Toys
Now your kid can train like a real Ninja Warrior and build his very own obstacle course. This Ninja kit comes with an intro kit and includes seven hanging attachments.
5. Collins Key Fake Food Mystery Challenge Wheel
Collins Key Fake Food Mystery Challenge Wheel
Collins Key Fake Food Mystery Challenge Wheel $19.97 at Amazon
Collins Key Fake Food Mystery Challenge Wheel $19.97 at Walmart
Collins Key Fake Food Mystery Challenge Wheel $19.99 at Target
Are you up for the Ultimate Fake Food Challenge? Mold and shape the key compounds to create fake foods with your hands or sculpting tools! There are 24 surprises and challenges to take on in this game.
6. Harry and David Festive Snack Train
Harry and David Festive Snack Train
Harry and David Festive Snack Train $79.99 at Harry & David
For the kid who loves trains or lives far away, this gift will spread the festive cheer and joy! This wooden train is filled with sweet and savory snacks.
7. Paint by Pom Pom, Unicorn Pal
Paint by Pom Pom, Unipom Pal
Paint by Pom Pom, Unipom Pal $19.99 at Etsy
This is a cool paint by numbers craft but with Pom Poms! No glue or scissors required. There are four unique characters from a unicorn, puppy, kitty and a dinosaur! Also comes in a frame ready to be displayed. The perfect gift!
Still looking for the perfect gift? Be sure to check out Shop TODAY’s 2020 Gift Guide to shop for everyone on your list, including:
37 gifts for the 7-year-old who’s ready to take on the world
27 genius gift ideas that middle schoolers will actually love
53 gifts your 10-year-old will cherish this holiday season and beyond
These are the 37 best gifts to give 8-year-olds for the holidays
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This gift guide was originally published on Nov. 8, 2018.
