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Gifts for Children Ages 9-12
See Toy Wishes Hot Dozen & Fab Five Computerized, motorized, electronic, and remote-controlled are the hallmarks of gifts to please the nine- to twelve-year-old. Kiddie versions of grown-up toys will just not do. Older children demand the real thing in sports gear, musical instruments, electronics, fashion accessories, and tools for their chosen hobbies. Regulation Gear. Replace children's sports equipment with the genuine articles. Give regulation sports gear: basketballs and backboards, footballs, baseballs and bats, soccer balls and nets, tennis rackets and balls, volleyballs and nets. Creative Genius. Give craft kits that challenge older children's creative skills. A pottery wheel, weaving loom, papermaking kit, rock-polishing kit, or jewelry-making kit are good choices. Ten Four, Over and Out. Walkie-talkies are a great way for kids to communicate while playing spy games or hide 'n' seek. For just a few dollars more than the toy walkie-talkies, you can get a simple version of the real thing from Radio Shack. Programmed for Fun. Computer programs and games are available for a wide range of interests. Encyclopedias and atlases on CDs are so much fun, kids don't even care they are actually learning. For advice on educational software, consult the child's teacher. Who’s Game? Air hockey games and table-tennis tables are popular among nine- to twelve-year-olds. Camped Out. Arrange for a child to attend a summer camp related to her interest—music, sports, space exploration, or writing to name just a few. Ticket to Fun. Give admission (for two or more) to a pinball arcade, miniature golf course, swimming pool, or go-cart sports park. Hanging Out. Give educational posters or maps to hang on bedroom walls. Framed posters or maps are especially fun. Members Only. Give a junior membership in the National Geographic Society, www.nationalgeographic.com. Membership includes a subscription to World magazine, a membership card, an official certificate, and an iron-on insignia. Control Freaks. Give an electric train, racing set, or anything with a remote control. Just You and Me. Children love the gift of your time. Fill a container with strips of paper on which you've written fun activities. Then, on a regular basis—weekly, monthly—set aside time to participate in an activity the child selects from the container.
See Toy Wishes Hot Dozen & Fab Five
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