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Stocking Stuffers for Preteen Girls and Boys aged 9 to 12 for under $30
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items Finding small gifts for preteens is tricky. They aren't little kids anymore, but they aren't quite teenagers either. I focus on things that are actually fun or useful, not just plastic junk that ends up in the trash. This list has ideas for boys and ...
Sections
4
Fun Games and Toys
Tech and Gadgets
Creative and School Supplies
Cozy and Self Care
Fun Games and Toys
These are small enough to fit in a stocking but still fun to play. I look for games that are easy to learn and quick to play. They are great for car rides or waiting at restaurants.
This game is loud and fast. You have to slap the pile when the word matches the card. My family plays this together and we always end up laughing. It is easy to learn and rounds go quickly.
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Card Game - Family Fun
This is a logic puzzle game. It comes in a small case that fits in a pocket or bag. The pieces are colorful and sturdy. It is good for quiet time when you need a break from screens.
Educational Insights Kanoodle Ultimate 3D Puzzle
I had one of these growing up and now they are popular again. It is a digital pet on a keychain. You have to feed it and clean up after it. It is a fun little responsibility for this age group.
Tamagotchi Original - Angel Party
This is a tiny version of the classic card game. The cards are about the size of a thumb. It is cute and actually playable if you have steady hands. It works well as a funny novelty gift.
Worlds Smallest Get Wild UNO Card Game
Tech and Gadgets
Kids this age are starting to get into tech. Accessories are a safe bet because they are cheaper than the actual devices. These are practical items they will use often.
This sticks to the back of a phone or tablet. It helps you hold the device so you don't drop it. It also works as a stand for watching videos. There are tons of designs so you can pick one they will like.
PopSockets Phone Grip & Kickstand - Black
This is a small square that helps you find lost things. You can attach it to a backpack or keys. You use an app to make it ring. It is really helpful for kids who tend to misplace their stuff.
Air Tracker Tags 4-Pack, Bluetooth Finder for Apple Find My
These look like little animals that bite your phone cable. They reinforce the cord where it usually breaks. It is a cheap way to save a charging cable. They are cute and functional.
Cute Animal Charging Cord Protectors (12-Pack)
This connects to a phone via Bluetooth. It has a built-in speaker and voice effects. It is surprisingly loud and fun for singing around the house. It comes in a few different colors.
Mini Karaoke Machine Bluetooth Speaker w/ 2 Mics
Creative and School Supplies
School supplies can be boring, but these are a bit more exciting. I like giving things that encourage writing or drawing. These items are colorful and unique.
This is not a normal diary. The pages give you instructions to destroy the book creatively. You might have to poke holes in a page or paint with coffee. It takes the pressure off being perfect.
Wreck This Journal for Kids: Rip, Write, Draw
These pens write smoothly like gel pens but erase completely. The eraser doesn't leave crumbs. They are great for homework or drawing. I steal these from my kids all the time because they work so well.
Pilot Frixion Erasable Gel Pens, Assorted
This is a big pack of waterproof stickers. Kids use them to decorate water bottles, laptops, or notebooks. It is an easy way for them to show their personality. You get a lot of stickers for a low price.
Cute Kawaii Stickers for Kids - 108pc Bulk
These markers smell like fruit when you draw. The scents are strong and the colors are bright. They have a thick chisel tip that is good for posters or art projects.
Mr. Sketch Scented Markers Chisel Tip 24ct
Give them something different like this laminating machine. Kids can be so creative with these.
Personal Laminator for Kids - Compact Pink
Cozy and Self Care
It is nice to get something that feels pampering. These items are gender neutral or have options for everyone. They are practical but still feel like a treat.
This is a classic lip balm that works. It uses beeswax and peppermint oil. It isn't shiny or sparkly so boys use it too. You can split up the pack between multiple stockings.
Burt's Bees 12 Days Lip Balm Advent Set
Fun socks are an easy stocking stuffer. You can find them with pizza, tacos, or animals on them. They are a practical gift that is still a little bit silly. Look for cotton blends so they are comfortable.
Kids Boys Girls Crew Socks 4-6 Pack Gift Box
If they wear Crocs, these charms are a must. They pop into the holes on the shoes. There are thousands of designs from sports to food. It lets them customize their shoes however they want.
Crocs Jibbitz 10-Pack Shoe Charms