"Toys" for a 12 year old

[Anonymous]

I can recall at Barnes and Noble, they have little "how to" books and items that can be a lot of fun for all ages. For my 12- and 13-year-old niece and nephew, I once got one with a deck of cards and a book about poker, rummy, etc., and one with a harmonica and a book on how to play it.

[Anonymous]

small radio controlled cars or helicopters.

[Anonymous]

Last year I gave my 11 yr old gifts like you are describing -- not exactly "toys." She felt disappointed because she didn't get anything "to play with." I would go for something that he can actually do Christmas morning, like something to build or make. You should be able to get a few things for under $50.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Last year I gave my 11 yr old gifts like you are describing -- not exactly "toys." She felt disappointed because she didn't get anything "to play with." I would go for something that he can actually do Christmas morning, like something to build or make. You should be able to get a few things for under $50.

Yes, that's exactly what I want -- suggestions for things he can actually do on Christmas morning. He's not a builder, when he was little and would get legos for Christmas he'd hand them to me and tell me to put them in the closet so he could give them to other kids for their birthday.

[Anonymous]

Does he like to play card or board games? Would someone be available to play with him?

Anomia is really fun for kids and adults.

Kanoodle is a good one-person game.

[Anonymous]

What about a science experiment type of kit? Like "make your own such and such..." Child's Play on Conn Ave has a good selection. What about magic tricks? they have sets with pretty good illusions. What about some kind of craft/art kit?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I can recall at Barnes and Noble, they have little "how to" books and items that can be a lot of fun for all ages. For my 12- and 13-year-old niece and nephew, I once got one with a deck of cards and a book about poker, rummy, etc., and one with a harmonica and a book on how to play it.

This is a good idea. Check out the klutz books. They have them for things like hackysacks or yo-yos. Or what about brain teaser puzzle type things. There is a new store outside nordstrom at Montgomery mall that sells this sort of thing.

[Anonymous]

My nephews (5th & 8th grade) like the Myth Busters tv show. They sell kits on different topics.

Also "Thinkfun" brand toys have single player puzzle type games for 8+ or Adult. You can get them at Barnes & Noble or online.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I can recall at Barnes and Noble, they have little "how to" books and items that can be a lot of fun for all ages. For my 12- and 13-year-old niece and nephew, I once got one with a deck of cards and a book about poker, rummy, etc., and one with a harmonica and a book on how to play it.

This is a good idea. Check out the klutz books. They have them for things like hackysacks or yo-yos. Or what about brain teaser puzzle type things. There is a new store outside nordstrom at Montgomery mall that sells this sort of thing.

Klutz! THAT'S what they're called! Yes, they are fantastic, and not very pricey (stocking stufferish, as the OP is looking for).

[Anonymous]

music player, books, a free pass to call/text friends on your cell phone, board games you can all play, RC car?

[Anonymous]

guitar!