The magical, mysterious world of the preteen! Back in my day, it was all about Nintendo 64, playing soccer in the park and being very mischievous. But times have changed. These days 12-year-old boys have to navigate through a world of social media, online gaming and constantly changing trends. So, what do you buy someone living in today fast moving world?
Luckily for you, there are a lot of options out there. Shopping online means you can buy something for any interest, hobby, or activity 12-year-old boys like; you just have to know what they like in the first place.
The easiest way to do this is to talk to them. It might seem hard at first (some pre-teens aren’t the best at communicating), but by opening up a dialogue, you can find out everything you need to know.
What Did We Look For When Shortlisting Gift Ideas For 12-Year-Old Boys?
It’s gotta be hard being a 12-year-old in this day and age, everything moves so fast, especially fashion and trends. In the midst of all that, you have to somehow finesse your social skills. For pre-teens, their interests, hobbies and taste can begin to define their identity.
It’s important that 12-year-olds receive a gift that encourages them to be who they are and to have fun with it. If you give them something they have zero interest in or try and push them in a certain direction, it may have the opposite, negative effect.
With all this in mind, I’ve tried to include something for everyone on this list, adding gifts that will last them longer than just a fleeting trend.
Let’s dive in and see what I’ve found that will make 12-year-olds put their phone down and get excited. No matter the occasion or your budget, there’s something here they’ll love.
Gifts for Their Room
1. Our Favorite: Echo Dot 4th Gen
What better way to spend your time than singing along to your favorite songs with millions of tracks, podcasts, games and more, all accessible with voice command, the Echo Dot 4th Gen is a great gadget for boys who love music. It’s not just for music; boys can also ask Alexa questions to help them with their homework.
| 😍 Great gift for 12-year-old boys who love music, podcasts, games, and knowledge. |
2. GUSODOR Led Strip Lights
12-year-olds always find new and interesting ways to express themselves. With these GUSODOR Led Strip Lights, boys can add a multicolored flair to their room that they can change with the included remote control or through an app on their smartphone. They’re easy to install and react to music for when the party starts.
| 😍 Great gift for 12-year-old boys who love to dance around their room to flashing colors. |
3. Dahey Moon Wall Mounted Shelf
Shelves are quite boring, right? Well, they don’t have to be with the Dahey Moon Wall Mounted Shelf. This stylish hanging unit brings an extra dimension to their room and lets boys show off their prized possessions. It’s made of wood, so it’s durable, and the color adds a touch of warmth.
| 😍 Great gift for 12-year-old boys who often leave things lying around. |
Gifts They Can Wear
4. Our Favorite: Stranger Things 4 Hellfire Club Baseball Tee
There’s no better way to show your allegiance to the greatest D&D club than by wearing the official Stranger Things 4 Hellfire Club Baseball Tee. Probably the most popular tee of 2022 after season four of the show managed to break Netflix, 12-year-olds will love wearing this new fashion commodity.
| 😍 Take it to the next level with this Hasbro Stranger Things Dungeons & Dragons game. |
5. adidas Adilette Shower Slides
There can be some strange things lurking on the floor of locker room showers, so it’s always safer to wear a pair of adidas Adilette Shower Slides on your feet. What better way for a 12-year-old to show off their fashionable side than rocking a pair of adidas after practice. But they’re not only for the locker room; you can take these bad boys to the beach or use them for lounging around the home.
| 😍 Might as well wear the whole look with these adidas Tastigo 19 Shorts |
6. MTV Retro Logo Graphic T-Shirt
One of our favorite words in fashion is “retro” because it means we can wear clothes from yesteryear that we missed out on the first time. We may remember it like yesterday, but now MTV is old school. 12-year-olds can show off their retro stylings by rocking this TV Retro Logo Graphic T-Shirt as a blast from the past.
| 😍 If they’re into retro, why not get them this Saved by the Bell-style shirt? Very 90s! |
Gifts for Gamers
7. Our Favorite: Nintendo Switch – OLED Model
It’s no secret, at TheToyZone, we LOVE the Nintendo Switch, and we play a lot of it. With such an expansive catalog of games (with plenty of free games on offer), boys will be able to find one to sink their teeth into. My favorite version is the OLED Model, which has a bright, crisp screen, better speakers and double the storage space to save games.
| 😍 Great gift for 12-year-old boys who love playing video games on the move. |
8. Meta Quest 2
This gift allows 12-year-olds to be transported into the immersive world of virtual reality. VR is the natural progression for gamers, so a head start is always helpful in what will be typical in the near future. Meta Quest 2 is one of the most popular headsets with 126GB or 256GB memory and over 350 3D games to choose from.
| 😍 Make sure they don’t damage their Meta Quest 2 with this sturdy carrying case. |
9. RESPAWN 110 Ergonomic Gaming Chair
You can’t truly get into a game if you’re uncomfortable right? With the RESPAWN 110 Ergonomic Gaming Chair, you can eliminate aches and pains no matter how long you play. 12-year-olds can play in any position they want with its segmented padding, reclining high back, extendable footrest and lumbar support.
| 😍 Do they need to stay hidden in the jungle? Why not try the Forest Camo colorway. |
10. BENGOO V-4 Gaming Headset
Video games ain’t what they used to be. Modern games are all about playing with others online, and there’s no better way to be connected than with the BENGOO V-4 Gaming Headset. This headset with fitted LED lights can be paired with Xbox, PC, Nintendo and Playstation consoles. With noise cancellation technology, 12-year-olds are transported straight into the action with no distractions as they talk tactics with their teams across the globe.
| 😍 If blue isn’t their color, check the same headset in white. |
Gifts for LEGO Fans
11. Our Favorite: LEGO Technic All-Terrain Vehicle 42139
When you hit 12 years old, LEGO may start to feel a little…childish. The LEGO Technic All-Terrain Vehicle 42139 takes it to the next level containing 764 intricate pieces which form moving parts of the ATV, tipping cargo bed and engine pistons. There’s so much detail packed into this great vehicle for the “older” LEGO fan.
| 😍 If your boy prefers architecture over mechanics, check out the LEGO Architecture Skyline Collection 21044. |
12. LEGO NINJAGO Jungle Dragon 71746
In this 506-piece set, Ninjago fans can build their own jungle dragon to fly above the treetops with its frightening growl from its moving jaw. This LEGO NINJAGO Jungle Dragon 71746 set not only contains said dragon with a moving tail for battle, but it also includes four Minifigures from the series Island Lloyd, Island Zane, PoulErik and Thunder Keeper.
| 😍 There are many sets to expand this world, like the LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Training Center 71764 set. |
13. LEGO BrickHeadz Star Wars The Mandalorian & The Child 75317
LEGO and Star Wars are always a winning combination, and for 12-year-olds, it can sometimes be more about collecting than playing. That’s why we’ve chosen the LEGO BrickHeadz Star Wars The Mandalorian & The Child 75317 set. This set sits on my desk, proudly paying homage to the amazing Mandalorian series from Disney.
| 😍 Big fan of The Mandalorian? LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian Trouble on Tatooine 75299 could also make an awesome gift. |
14. LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Chamber of Secrets 76389
Okay, this is a big one. Imagine being transported into the scariest place imaginable. The LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Chamber of Secrets 76389 allows 12-year-olds to immerse themselves into the franchise they’ve loved since childhood with this whopping 1176-piece set which includes 10 of their most loved characters. This will keep them busy for many a witching hour.
| 😍 There’s a lot more where that came from. Why not treat them to the LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Astronomy Tower 75969 to expand the adventure. |
Gifts for Science Lovers
15. Our Favorite: 4M Toysmith, 7 Crystal Growing Science Experimental Kit
For kids who love chemistry, there’s something very satisfying about experiments that take time to complete and result in sparkling crystals. The 4M Toysmith, 7 Crystal Growing Science Experimental Kit will thrill 12-year-olds with seven different crystal growing experiments, including cases to display their masterpieces.
| 😍 Safety is key in science, so make sure you wear protective goggles. |
16. Official Arduino Starter Kit
The world of electronics is vast, exciting and often confusing, but never impossible. A great introduction to electronics is the Official Arduino Starter Kit which allows you to understand how circuitry works with a hands-on approach. This kit includes over 100 components to build 15 projects, each stage explained in the project guidebook.
| 😍 There’s a whole world of circuits to explore with Arduino. |
17. OLD NOBBY Organic Chemistry Set
The world of chemistry is fascinating, and when you have a first for knowledge, there’s so much to learn. The OLD NOBBY Organic Chemistry Set guides 12-year-olds through atoms with its molecular models and instructional guide. It may sound technical, but this kit uses 3D visual learning and color-coded pieces to discover the mysteries of molecular chemistry.
| 😍 They will definitely benefit from this Periodic Table of Elements Poster on their journey of discovery. |
Gifts for Sports Fans
18. Our Favorite: Agility Ladder & Soccer Training Equipment
Looking for a gift for a sports fan who loves to train…all the time? The Agility Ladder & Soccer Training Equipment encourages 12-year-olds to increase their footwork, speed and agility with a simple setup that is easy to pack away when they’re done. Included is a 19.6 ft training ladder with 12 adjustable rungs, eight agility disc cones and a wall chart with drills for them to complete.
| 😍 To help with their drills, add a Rolilink Metal Stopwatch to their gift. |
19. GoSports Slammo Game Set
Bored of the usual sports? GoSports Slammo is a new take on volleyball but with a twist. This action-packed game sees competitors try to outsmart each other by spiking the ball off the net for them to return. Perfect for a day at the beach, 12-year-olds will have a blast with their friends as they play 2-on-2 to beat their opponents.
| 😍 You can also get different-sized Slammo nets like Slammo Pro and Slammo XL. |
20. WILSON Profile XD Teen Complete Golf Club Set
Whatever you think, golf is no longer a sport for old, strangely dressed white dudes; it’s an exciting sport that gets more popular every year. Boys will love learning the skill, power and determination it takes to get the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible. It isn’t as easy as it sounds; TRUST ME.
| 😍 Great gift for 12-year-old boys who love the outdoors and want to learn a very different sport from football. |
Gifts for Young Artists
21. Our Favorite: Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera
Camera phones may have taken over, but there’s nothing like having a physical photograph of a treasured moment. With the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera, 12-year-olds can exercise their artistic creativity and get instant results. Whether they want to capture special occasions, document their travels, or take photos for the gallery, this camera is great fun for young artists
| 😍 Remember, with this retro camera, you’re gonna need film. |
22. SHANY Glamour Makeup Kit
Art isn’t about colors on a canvas. With the growing popularity of shows like Glow Up and Blush, makeup has become an art form in itself. With the SHANY Glamour Makeup Kit, 12-year-olds can test their skill and creativity as this kit includes 48 different color eyeshadows, four blushes and six glossy lip creams.
| 😍 In order to paint, they need brushes. Try out this BS-MALL 14 piece brush set. |
23. 72PCS Drawing & Art Supplies Kit
A great artist has to have great tools to create. Arm your future Van Gough with everything he’ll need to make a masterpiece with this 72PCS Drawing & Art Supplies Kit. All neatly stored in a large folder, this set comes with a sketchbook, watercolor pencils, sketch pencils, metallic pencils and charcoal pencils.
| 😍 With all those pencils, they’re probably gonna need some extra sketch books. |
Gifts for Boys Who Love to Cook
24. Our Favorite: The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs
The best way to get into cooking is to dive straight in, so I’ve chosen The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs to get them started. These techniques have been tested on over 750 kids to make sure they’re understandable and, most importantly, taste good. With over 100 recipes, 12-year-olds will be cooking up a storm in no time.
| 😍 Hint: Every good chef needs an apron to create in! |
25. Cakebe Cake Decorating Kit
Who doesn’t love cake? Baking one is even harder than saying no to one; believe me, it’s an art form. Decorating a cake takes skill, precision and patience; just look at the folk from The Great American Baking Show. Luckily the Cakebe Cake Decorating Kit has everything you need to make a masterpiece cake for others to enjoy, with 78 different tools to help you.
| 😍 Are you really a baker if you don’t have the hat? I don’t think so. |
26. NutriChef 13 Pcs. Nonstick Kitchen Cookware
If you wanna “WOW” in the kitchen, you gotta have the right tools for the job. This NutriChef 13 Pcs. Nonstick Kitchen Cookware set has everything a 12-year-old needs to make magic for the dining table. Because accidents happen, all the pans are non-stick and dishwasher friendly and the set also includes 3 kitchen utensils. Dinner is served.
Gifts for Marvel Fans
27. Our Favorite: LEGO Marvel I am Groot 76217
“I AM GROOT” The infamous words from the most adorable character in the Marvel universe. With 476 pieces to build, LEGO Marvel I am Groot 76217 is a great gift for 12-year-old Marvel fans who also love LEGO. With loads of opposable joints, Groot can dance along to the included “Awesome Mix” cassette tape.
28. Funko Pop! Marvel: Avengers Endgame – Captain America
Please tell me you’ve heard of Funko Pop! These adorable figures make great collector’s items with hundreds of different themes. For Marvel fans, we’ve chosen Funko Pop! Marvel: Avengers Endgame – Captain America. This adorable bobblehead figure would make the perfect gift to sit on a 12-year-old desk to watch over and make sure they do their homework.
| 😍 If they’re more of an Iron Man kinda guy, check out the hugely popular Funko Pop! Avengers Endgame: I Am Iron Man Glow-in-The-Dark Deluxe Vinyl Figure. |
29. Marvel Ultimate Periodic Table Of Elements
If you’re a nerd (like me), you’ll know how much we love a quirky t-shirt. This may look like the periodic table, but there’s a fun twist. Each element represents a character from the Marvel franchise set out in groups like villains, heroes, Inhumans and defenders. Marvel fans will flock to this tee to read each section.
| 😍 Are they also Star Wars fans? Try this Star Wars Periodic Table of Elements. |
30. Marvel Crisis Protocol Core Set
We love a good strategy game here at TheToyZone, so when we found the Marvel Crisis Protocol Core Set we knew we had to include it. Build your team to save or take over the world; you cannot do it alone. This fun strategy game may say 14+ years, but we’re sure your 12-year-old Marvel fan will have hours of fun winning the battle.
| 😍 There’s more fun to be had with expansion packs like the Cyclops and Storm Character Pack and Magneto and Toad Character Pack. |
Gifts for Boys Who Love Tech and Gadgets
31. Our Favorite: ELEGOO UNO R3 Project Smart Robot Car Kit
I love gadgets; if I had this at 12, I would have been a thrilled nerd. The ELEGOO UNO R3 Project Smart Robot Car Kit combines engineering, robotics and RC cars. There are 24 different module parts, including obstacle avoidance, line tracing module and infrared remote control (they can also use their smartphone to steer the vehicle). Don’t worry if they don’t already know what they’re doing, as HD rendering instructions are included. Ideal for budding engineers.
| 😍 Collect other robots from ELEGOO like the Owl Smart Robotic Car Kit. |
32. Smartphone Video Microphone Kit
Do you have the next YouTube sensation waiting to get on the air? To get quality content these days, you need a good setup. The Smartphone Video Microphone Kit will help your 12-year-old on their way to fame and success with their swiveling ball-head tripod, cardioid microphone and adjustable LED light.
| 😍 If they wanna take the show on the road, check out the DJI OM 5 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer for expert filmmaking. |
33. Amazfit GTS 2 Mini Smart Watch
12-year-olds are a lot savvier these days when it comes to health and well-being. Who wouldn’t want to live longer? With the Amazfit GTS 2 Mini Smart Watch, they can keep track of their vitals, ask Alexa homework questions, check the weather and keep an eye on their daily health goals.
| 😍 Black, not their color? Try Flamingo Pink. |
Gifts for Book Worms
34. Our Favorite: All-new Kindle (2022 release)
Imagine having thousands of fantastic stories at your fingertips without hauling books around in your backpack. The All-new Kindle lets 12-year-olds access their favorite tales in one place with a high-resolution display. With 16 GB of storage, the 2022 kindle is an ideal gift for book lovers.
| 😍 You can also get our other book recommendations Crave and The Outsiders, for the Kindle. |
35. The Outsiders
You can’t beat the classics, that’s why The Outsiders has been a constant in bookstores for 50 years. This story follows Ponyboy’s journey of self-discovery as he navigates his way through teenage life. This international bestseller will connect with boys and reassure them that they are not alone on their journey to “fit in” with the crowd.
| 😍 Great gift for 12-year-old boys who love an exciting read that they can relate to. |
36. Crave
Vampires are cool, period. Crave is part of a #1 New York Times bestselling series from Tracy Wolff where we delve into the darkness and sometimes romantic life of the modern bloodsucker. 12-year-olds who love to read will be hooked from the first chapter; just make sure they don’t scare easily.
| 😍 When they finish the first installment, they’ll definitely want to carry on the series with Crush, Covet, Court, Charm, and Cherish. |
Gifts for Board Game Lovers
37. Our Favorite: Avalon Hill – Betrayal at House on the Hill
There’s a reason why board games are still so popular today: they’re great fun, challenging and sometimes scary. Avalon Hill – Betrayal at House on the Hill takes that to a new level as you build your own haunted mansion and try to escape it. With 50 different scenarios, there’s so much play packed into one game.
| 😍 Set a haunting mood with these Flickering Flameless Candles. |
38. Splendor
When board games don’t cut it anymore, it’s best to move on to more strategic adventures. Splendor is a game for all the family to enjoy as players vie to control gem mines, hire artisans and transport their goods as a wealthy merchant running a lucrative jewelry business. Prestige and power are gained through strategy in this fun board game.
| 😍 If the family enjoys strategy games, then why not add Azul to your collection. |
39. Skillmatics Board Game: Rapid Rumble
Rapid Rumble is a fast, fun strategy game for up to five players. You have to have your wits about you as you roll the die and shout answers as fast as possible before the timer runs out. There’s no actual board here; each player has to get rid of as many letter cards as they can as they answer questions from category cards. It’s fun chaos.
| 😍 And another gift for Marvel fans, this time in card game form Skillmatics Marvel Card Game. |
Gifts for Boys Who Love the Outdoors
40. Our Favorite: Fofana Ninja Slider Zipline Pulley Kit
If your 12-year-old likes to spend their time in the great outdoors, there are loads of fun activities to do. The Fofana Ninja Slider Zipline Pulley Kit provides an adrenaline-packed new adventure to your yard and is easy to set up. This 65 ft zipline brings an element of danger to play while remaining super safe and fun.
| 😍 If they also like climbing, why not upgrade to the full Fofana Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course. |
41. Coleman Sundome Camping Tent
There’s nothing like sleeping under the stars and looking up at the big night sky. With the Coleman Sundome Camping Tent, you’ll know that your 12-year-old will be safe and warm as it has Weathersec technology to withstand 35+ mph winds and keep them dry in the rain. Plus, it only takes 10 minutes to set up.
| 😍 They’ll also need a sleeping bag to keep warm. Try this Coleman Brazos Sleeping Bag, which is ideal for cold weather. |
42. FUSION Kids Centaur Harness
Climbing is a great way for 12-year-olds to learn coordination and tactics whilst gaining strength and having fun. The USION Kids Centaur Harness will keep them safe and secure as they venture up any mountain or climbing wall. Equipped with three fast pass steel adjusters and a front-reinforced belay loop, it is the perfect gift for beginner climbers.
| 😍 They can even practice at home with these TOPNEW 12 Ninja Tree Climbing Holds. |
Gifts for Animal Lovers
43. Our Favorite: Zoology: Inside the Secret World of Animals
For those big animal lovers, there’s nothing more fascinating than Zoology. Zoology: Inside the Secret World of Animals gives 12-year-olds a magnificent visual insight into the animal kingdom with its ‘head-to-toe’ pictures and descriptions. This highly-detailed book looks at a vast array of animals, looking at their size and shape, skins and coats and senses and behaviors.
| 😍 If they prefer to learn what happens below the surface, try Oceanology: The Secrets of the Sea Revealed. |
44. Ravensburger Tropical Waters 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle
Jigsaws don’t have an age limit; they’ll be fun and challenging and teach us valuable problem-solving skills. The Ravensburger Tropical Waters 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle shows the wonderful world of life under the sea with an array of different wildlife the study. 500 pieces is no easy task, so this jigsaw puzzle will keep 12-year-olds occupied for some time.
| 😍 Prefer birds over fish? Then you should go for the Buffalo Games – Hummingbird Garden – 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle. |
45. Petcube
Our pets mean everything to us, but how can you keep an eye on them when you’re not at home? The answer is Petcube. This small device lets 12-year-olds check up on their pets in recess as it contains a small camera, microphone and speaker that connects to an app on their smartphone. Watch them play, talk to them and ensure they are happy in your absence.
| 😍 If you want to go a step further, Petcube Bites 2 lets you feed your pet treats from anywhere in the world. |
Gifts for Boys Who Like to Write
46. Our Favorite: NACODEX 84 Key Bluetooth Typewriter Keyboard
These days, kids write words using a touch screen, but nothing beats typing out a story on a typewriter. Something about the feel of the keys and the sound they make hatches creativity. The NACODEX 84 Key Bluetooth Typewriter Keyboard gives 12-year-olds the freedom to write all their ideas just like the famous authors before them, but with that modern touch.
47. Vintage PU Leather Travel Notebook
When you’re a serious writer, you need to take notes when inspiration hits where ever it may be. With this Vintage PU Leather Travel Notebook, young Hemingways can jot down all their musings on these beautiful, high-quality pages.
| 😍 You can also get it in different colors. Choose from Brown, Light Brown, and White Coffee. |
48. Wordsworth & Black Fountain
The only pen that could be used in a notebook as fine as the one above is the Wordsworth & Black Fountain pen. This elegant writing tool will help with creativity as it glides across the page. It comes with ink cartridges, so 12-year-olds are ready to write, and it also comes with a luxury leather case.
| 😍 Creativity comes in all kinds of colors like Crimson Red, Racing Green, Brown Gold, or Velvet Purple. |
Gifts for Movie Lovers
49. Our Favorite: DJI OM 5 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer
For budding young directors, it’s all about creativity and pro footage. With the DJI OM 5 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer, 12-year-olds can get the smoothest camera movements to make their project look as professional as a Hollywood blockbuster. Attach a smartphone to the gimbal and you could be looking at the next Speilburg.
| 😍 Show them the tricks of the trade with the Digital Filmmaking For Kids For Dummies paperback. |
50. GooDee Portable Projector
For serious movie lovers, it’s all about watching their favorite films on the big screen. With the mini GooDee Portable Projector, movie fans will enjoy every feature in their room by connecting it to their laptop, game console, tablet and smartphone. Plus, it looks really cool.
| 😍 As an extra gift, get them a subscription to Prime with this Amazon eGift Card. |
51. Stranger Things Smartwatch Band
Did you see the Stranger Things 4 Hellfire Club Baseball Tee we recommended before? What could be a better match than this Stranger Things Smartwatch Band. Styled with Hellfire Club graphics, 12-year-olds can show off their love for the movies by attaching it to their apple watch.
| 😍 There are other Stranger Things straps to choose from, like the Logo Edition, Friends Don’t Lie, and Hawkins Highschool. |
Gifts for Music Fans
52. Our Favorite: Guitar and Amp Bundle Kit
Calling all future guitar heroes, the time has come to shred the biggest riffs and make the loudest noise with this Guitar and Amp Bundle Kit. You get everything a beginner needs all in one kit including a guitar tuner, extra strings, a strap and a guide to teaching 12-year-olds their first chords.
| 😍 There are nine different colors to choose from including Black, Red, White, and even comes in a left handed version. |
53. Beats Studio Buds
When you’re a big music fan, you want full immersion. That’s where Beats Studio Buds come in. These top-of-the-line in-ear headphones connect wirelessly to your smartphone through Bluetooth, have noise cancellation and a built-in microphone AND they’re sweat-resistant making them ideal for sport. Plus…they sound amazing.
| 😍 They also come in a range of colors, Red, White, Moon Grey, and Ocean Blue. |
54. Numark DJ2GO2 Touch – USB DJ Controller
Any aspiring DJ needs the right tools to get the party started and buying all the equipment can be very expensive. Unless you’re ready to embrace the future with the Numark DJ2GO2 Touch – USB DJ Controller. This allows 12-year-old producers to mix their favorite tracks digitally and it’s small enough to take to any party to show off their skills.
| 😍 Keep their set-up safe and easy to transport with the LTGEM EVA Hard Case for Numark DJ2GO2 Touch. |
Gifts for Anime/Manga Lovers
55. Our Favorite: Fairy Tail – Nintendo Switch
Based on the best-selling manga from Hiro Mashima, Fairy Tail for the Nintendo Switch takes us on an enchanting journey with demons, dark wizards, dragons and cats as you choose from 16 different playable characters. Battle against memorable enemies as you explore magical worlds with all the classic manga stylings.
| 😍 Why not treat them to a chapter of the book to compliment the video game. |
56. Tanjiro Nezuko Kyoujurou Anime Stuff Figures
I’ll admit, I’m not into anime, but it’s my job to know what’s hot and these Tanjiro Nezuko Kyoujurou Anime Stuff Figures are fire. These adorable figures make for ideal collectibles for anime fans to have on their desk, measuring 2.5 inches high; they will show others their love for the popular series.
| 😍 If they’re CRAZY for anime, you can’t go wrong with this Demon Slayer Anime Merch Gift Set. |
57. How to Draw Anime and Manga
This one is a double whammy. For artistic fans of anime and manga, this How to Draw Anime and Manga is an awesome guide on how to master all the characteristics that make these popular genres what they are. It takes you through faces, expressions, hair, body, and clothes so 12-year-olds can start their own comic franchise.
| 😍 They’ll probably need pencils. |
Gifts They Can Use In School
58. Our Favorite: Case-it The Mighty Zip Tab Zipper Binder
When it comes to school work, you’ve gotta keep organized. The Mighty Zip Tab Zipper Binder can hold up to 600 pages of paper in its 3-inch O-rings arranged in five color-coded pockets. This durable nylon binder will keep all the work they need for school and can also store pens and pencils in its exterior zipper pocket.
| 😍 Comes in several colors like Blue, fire engine Red, and monster Green. |
59. JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack
Errr…there’s not a whole lot I can say about a backpack apart from it’s trendy, it’s lightweight, and the JanSport SuperBreak One Backpack is sturdy enough to hold all the school books you can cram inside it.
| 😍 Comes in 27 colors, including Buckshot Camo, Lucky Bandana, and Garden Tea Party. |
60. Mini Portable Charger
There’s nothing worse than getting into a situation where you need your phone, but the batteries are dead. That never needs to happen with this Mini Portable Charger. The 5000mAh power bank will get you charged when there’s no outlet in sight and has multiple outputs to match any connection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gifts For 12-Year-Old Boys
🙋♂️ What do teenage boys like?
As you probably already know, teenage boys can be challenging to understand. To make it harder, they all like different stuff… And to make it even harder, their interests can change fast!
The best way to answer this question is to talk to them. Find out what current trends they like, their interests and what they don’t like. You don’t want to give a football to a kid who hates sports but loves science.
Teenage boys might seem complicated to buy for, but not if you open your mind to their world… if you dare.
🙋♂️ Do 12-year-old boys still like toys?
Toys can sometimes seem a little childish when boys start to hit their teenage years. By now, 12-year-olds have usually found a hobby or interest to focus on, sometimes even several at once. Try and find out what they like and nurture it.
Of course, this isn’t always the case. You don’t need to worry if your 12-year-old still plays with toys; they’re still kids. Look at how they spend their time, then tailor a gift to match their interests.
🙋♂️What are the differences between teenagers now and back in my day?
Speaking as someone who used to be a 12-year-old boy, I know how different it is these days. I wasn’t burdened with social media, streaming, smartphones, or even a cell phone. Of course, I had video games, but if I wanted to play multiplayer (which was always either Goldeneye or Mario Kart) I had to call my friends over using the landline.
Now more than ever, we need to keep an eye on our teenager’s emotional health and social interaction due to new media. It can be hard for them growing up with so much going on around them and with access to so much more information than I had, both good and bad.
Diana Divecha Ph.D (a developmental psychologist and an assistant clinical professor at the Yale Child Study Center and Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence), gives us a great insight into the differences between generations and the traps and triggers to look for.
So… What Gift Should I Get For a 12-Year-Old Boy?
The answer is reasonably simple…ask them what they like.
I’ve tried to include gifts for different interests, hobbies, and activities in this list. If they like science, see what they can make with the 4M Toysmith, 7 Crystal Growing Science Experimental Kit. If they like sports, they’ll love the Agility Ladder & Soccer Training Equipment and for the artistic ones, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera will provide countless hours of creativity.
I couldn’t add every gift idea I wanted to (the list would be endless) so if you have a gift idea you think other 12-year-olds will love, let me know, and I will add it to our list.
