40 Best Birthday Gift Ideas For 9 Year Old Boys & Girls
I have 9-year-old nieces and nephews, and I have become an expert in gift guides for the big kids. I've curated a list of the best toys, games, and activities that are sure to bring smiles and excitement to the faces of 9-year-old girls and 9-year-old boys everywhere. From STEM toys to video games, board games to sports equipment, there's something here for every interest and personality.
9-year-olds can be a tough age. They're nearly pre-teens, and in today's world with social media and so many choices. I'm super close with my niece and nephews, which has helped me make the list of the best gifts for 9-year-olds.
Whether you're searching for a birthday gift or simply want to surprise a creative kid, I've got you covered with a wide variety of options to choose from. From educational toys that promote skill development to fast-paced games that challenge deductive reasoning, there's something here for every child in this age group.
For the budding bookworm, consider gifting a graphic novel or an activity book filled with fun facts and brain teasers. These engaging reads not only stimulate the mind but also foster a love of learning and encourage deductive reasoning skills. With a variety of options available in different genres and themes, you're sure to find the perfect gift to spark their imagination.
For the active and adventurous 9-year-old, outdoor activities and team sports are excellent options for promoting skill development and social skills. From water-resistant sports equipment to modern design basketball hoops, these gifts provide endless opportunities for hand-eye coordination and teamwork. Plus, with enough materials to keep them entertained for hours on end, you can rest assured that you're giving a gift that will bring joy and excitement to their double-digit birthday celebration. I'm so excited for you to explore this gift guide and find the perfect gift idea for the 9-year-old in your life!
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Friendship Bracelet Kit
I love the neon colors in this bracelet kit! It’s packaged in such a cute way from a small business. It’s a perfect tween gift.
Plushible Snugibles
These are the cutest, most comfy blankets that fold up into their own little bag.
Clue Board Game
Family game night anyone? Clue is a classic! If your tween doesn’t have this game, definitely grab it for their birthday.
Nee Doh Chick Deedo’s
These are destined to be so popular! I think they’re the new pop it. They’re squishy and fun!
Rainbow Name Necklace
How pretty are these Rainbow name necklaces from a unique designer on Etsy? They’ll love this.
Indoor Basketball Hoop
If you have a sports fan in your life, you can’t go wrong with this indoor basketball hoop. The best part is the shot clock countdown.
Friendship Bracelet Making Kit
I love how this kit is all self contained including where you keep the thread and how you build out the bracelets. This is a must-have!
Light Up Frisbee
This frisbee is the perfect 9-year-old gift for boys or girls! How fun to have it fly through the air at dusk or nighttime in the summer?
Birthstone Necklace
This custom birthstone necklace with a personalized messaged is so sweet. It’s a beautiful necklace and also perfect for a tween birthday — something she’ll remember for years!
Sports Battle Buckets
This game is so fun! It’s perfect for a family game night or for a tween to play with friends!
Personalized Belt Bag
The 9-year-old fashionista in your life is certain to love this! It’s a perfect tween gift for birthdays and holidays. It’s cute and comes in 3 colors.
Sussed? The Game of Wacky Choices
This game will score you some cool points with your tween. Sussed is a game that has everyone chatting wacky choices about all topics. It’s great for family game night or for the kids to play with their friends.
Clay Bowls Craft
These bowls are so beautiful and such a fun craft for tweens to make at home. Perfect for all of their knick knacks and jewelry.
Bunny Garden
These darling little kids gardening kits can be personalized with their name. It’s a fun project you can do together and then plant it outside.
Cinema Box Sign
How fun is this sign for your 9-year-olds room? They can change up the messaging as often as they like and personalize it by the day!
Marquee Light
A perfect gift for any tween! You can get them the first letter of their name or spell it out.
Name Painting Kit
If you have a little artist you’re shopping for, this is a great gift for them. It’s. customized and from a small business on Etsy.
Types of Gifts for 9 year-olds by Category
Sometimes it’s easiest to shop for a child by their general interest. That’s why I’ve also broken out some ideas for my guide below by interest.
STEM Toys for Curious Minds
Encourage learning and exploration with STEM toys that spark imagination and creativity. From DIY kits to building blocks, these toys provide hands-on learning experiences while also offering hours of fun. Watch as your 9-year-old dives into the world of science, technology, engineering, and math with these cool gifts.
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Gravity Maze
It’s a combination logic game, marble run, and STEM toy that's one of the best gifts for 9-year-old boys and girls.
Robot Kit
If you have a little engineer in the making, this is a great educational toy for them. This robot kit is solar powered so will bring hours of fun even after building it!
Snap Circuits
This is a fun indoor activity for your STEM learner. With this 9-year-old gift, they can build different circuit boards and learn how electricity and connections work.
Interactive Video Games
For the tech-savvy 9-year-old who loves gaming, consider the latest video games that offer immersive gameplay and endless entertainment. Whether they're into adventure games, sports simulations, or puzzle challenges, there's a video game out there that will keep them engaged and having much fun for hours on end.
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Nintendo Switch
This handheld video game is incredibly popular among tweens and teens. If your 9-year-old doesn’t have a Nintendo Switch, they’ll love this.
Minecraft
This game is wildly popular among all Switch users. It’s a classic, and if a Switch is new to your 9-year-old this is a must-have gift.
Super Mario Bros. Wonder
Super Mario Brothers is back! Anyone else grow up loving Super Mario? Wonder is a fun addition to the gaming world. If they already have a Switch and some games, go with this one!
Classic Board Games for Family Game Night
Gather the whole family for a night of fun and laughter with classic board games that never go out of style. From fast-paced card games to strategy games that require deductive reasoning, board games provide the perfect opportunity for quality time and friendly competition. It's the perfect way to bond as a family and create lasting memories.
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Junior Detective
This is a super fun game to play for family game night. If your tween loves a good mystery, this game is most definitely for them.
Girl Talk Game
It's the truth or dare game with outrageous fun, big laughs, and silly secrets. Loved playing the classic Girl Talk game as a kid? Now you can introduce your own kids to this edition of the game, inspired by the original 1988 version
Monopoly Chance
This card-flipping version of the Monopoly game only takes about 20 minutes to play! Instead of moving a token around the board, each player receives a token deck with Cash cards, Bankrupt cards, and strategic cards that lend an edge.
Imaginative Play Sets
Fuel your 9-year-old's imagination with play sets that transport them to different worlds and adventures. Whether it's a space station playset or a Harry Potter-themed DIY kit, imaginative play sets encourage open-ended play and creative storytelling. It's the perfect time for them to explore different perspectives and let their imagination run wild.
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Harry Potter Imaginative Play Set
If you have a Harry Potter fan, they’re sure to love this play set. It’s a great gift for tweens.
Lego Space Station
Have a Lego lover in your life? Check out this Lego Space Station set. With more than 1000 pieces it’s sure to keep them busy!
Imaginative Play Tent
The tweens I know like to escape from time to time, so buy them a little hide out of their own.
Educational Books and Graphic Novels
For the bookworm in your life, consider gifting award-winning children's books or graphic novels that capture their imagination and spark their love for reading. From fun facts books to captivating graphic novels, there's something here to inspire and educate every 9-year-old reader.
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Trapped in a Video Game Book Series
This is a super popular book series making it one of the best gifts for 9-year-old boys.
Judy Blume Fudge Books Box Set
We can all agree Judy Blume is a classic, and this book set is sure to be a win with your tween reader. Highly recommend!
Hunger Games Book Set
This is a book set they are sure to love for years to come! My nieces and nephews have read this series again and again!
Sports Equipment for Active Play
Encourage physical development and active play with sports equipment that gets your 9-year-old moving and grooving. Whether it's a soccer ball for kicking around in the backyard or a basketball hoop for practicing their shots, sports equipment provides endless opportunities for outdoor fun and exercise.
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Pindaloo
This is an easy-to-store, fun game that the 9-year-olds are sure to love. It’s fun to play inside or outside — with a friend or solo. I love that it’s not expected and on the more creative side of things, too!
Light Up Baseball
This baseball is so fun for kids to play outside at dusk or at night. Who doesn’t love a game of catch? If you have a baseball player in your life, this is a great gift for them!
Air Hockey Table
I grew up with an air hockey table and LOVED it. We had so much fun playing after dinner every night. This one is great. It’s just over 3 feet wide.
Friendship Bracelet Kits
Foster social skills and creativity with friendship bracelet kits that allow your 9-year-old to create colorful bracelets for themselves and their friends. With different colors and patterns to choose from, these kits provide hours of crafting fun and the perfect opportunity for imaginative play.
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The Ultimate Friendship Bracelet Kit
Want to give them the ultimate friendship bracelet kit? This is it! It has every bead color you can think of and it’s from a small business.
Thread Friendship Bracelet Kit
A perfect tween gift for the kid that’s already into friendship bracelet making. This kit contains a holder that they can use over and over again.
Friendship Bracelet Kit
This kit is under $20 and a fun gift to send to your tween that lives further away. I love that everything is contained in the box.
Brain Teasers and Puzzle Games
Challenge your 9-year-old's problem-solving skills with brain teasers and puzzle games that offer hours of entertainment and skill development. From logic puzzles to spatial reasoning games, these games provide a fun way for your child to exercise their brain and develop critical thinking skills.
No matter what your 9-year-old loves, there's a perfect gift out there waiting to be discovered. Whether it's a high-quality educational toy or a fun outdoor activity, the options are endless. So go ahead, explore our list of the best gift ideas and make this birthday or holiday one to remember for your special 9-year-old!
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Tetris Game
This game is a fun spin on the video game. There are several boards and each player pulls cards to use the pieces and build their Tetris.
Scrabble Frenzy
This is a fun twist on the traditional Scrabble because it’s smaller and more portable. Great to bring to restaurants or on vacation.
The Game of Life
What a classic game. This one really needs no description. If your 9 year old doesn’t have this game, grab it! It’s perfect for tweens.
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Where to find gifts for 9-year-olds
When it comes to finding the perfect gifts for 9-year-olds, there are plenty of places to explore. For starters, moms love browsing through specialty toy stores and online retailers that offer curated selections of high-quality toys and games. These stores often carry a wide variety of options that cater to different interests and preferences, ensuring that there's something for every child.
For lots of fun and engaging toys, consider looking for items that promote physical development and encourage open-ended play. Think sports equipment like soccer balls, basketball hoops, and water-resistant outdoor toys that encourage active play and skill development. These toys not only provide hours of entertainment but also help kids stay active and healthy.
Graphic novels and educational toys are also great options for this age group. Graphic novels can capture the imagination of creative kids, while educational toys can promote deductive reasoning and problem-solving skills. Look for toys and games that have won best kids' book awards or are recommended for fourth graders to ensure high quality and educational value.
For kids who love technology, consider gifts with a color screen or modern design, such as handheld gaming devices or electronic activity books. These gifts combine fun and learning in a way that appeals to tech-savvy kids while also providing opportunities for skill development and social interaction.
When shopping for gifts, it's important to consider the child's interests, personality, and age group. Look for items that promote skill development, encourage creativity, and foster social skills. Whether it's a birthday gift or a special surprise, finding the right gift for a 9-year-old can be a rewarding experience. With so many options available, there's sure to be a great toy or game that will bring joy and excitement to any child's day.
My comprehensive gift guide for 9-year-olds offers a plethora of options to make shopping for the perfect gift a breeze. With a focus on promoting skill development, encouraging creativity, and fostering social skills, our curated selection caters to the diverse interests and personalities of children in this age group. Whether you're searching for a birthday gift or simply want to surprise a creative kid, our guide is designed to provide a wide range of options to suit every taste and preference.
One of the key highlights of our gift guide is the emphasis on educational toys that offer both entertainment and learning opportunities. From activity books filled with fun facts and brain teasers to STEM toys that promote deductive reasoning and problem-solving skills, these gifts provide children with valuable educational experiences that lay the foundation for future academic success. By incorporating educational toys into our gift guide, we aim to empower parents and caregivers to make informed choices that support their child's cognitive development and academic growth.
Furthermore, our gift guide also features a variety of options for promoting physical activity and outdoor play. From water-resistant sports equipment to team sports that encourage teamwork and collaboration, these gifts offer children the opportunity to stay active, healthy, and engaged in physical activity. In a world increasingly dominated by screens and technology, it's more important than ever to encourage children to get outside, explore their surroundings, and engage in active play. By including outdoor activities in our gift guide, we hope to inspire families to prioritize physical activity and outdoor play as essential components of a healthy lifestyle.
Finally, our gift guide celebrates the joy of creativity and imagination with a selection of gifts designed to spark the imagination and inspire endless hours of imaginative play. From graphic novels that transport children to far-off worlds to activity books that encourage artistic expression and creative thinking, these gifts provide children with the opportunity to explore their interests, express themselves, and unleash their creativity. By fostering a love of creativity and imagination, we hope to instill in children the confidence to express themselves and pursue their passions, both now and in the future.
My gift guide for 9-year-olds offers a diverse selection of options to suit every child's interests, preferences, and developmental needs. From educational toys to outdoor activities, our guide is designed to provide families with the tools and resources they need to make informed choices and select the perfect gift for their child. Whether you're shopping for a birthday gift, holiday present, or special occasion, our gift guide is your go-to resource for finding the perfect gift that will bring joy, excitement, and endless hours of fun to the 9-year-old in your life.
Why Etsy is a Great Place to Find 9-year-old Birthday Gifts
Etsy stands out as a remarkable marketplace for finding the perfect gift for someone due to its unique blend of handmade, vintage, and artisanal products. With a vast array of items spanning various categories such as jewelry, home decor, clothing, art, and personalized gifts, Etsy offers a diverse selection that caters to virtually every taste, style, and interest. Here are several reasons why Etsy is a great place to find a gift for someone:
Handcrafted and Unique Items: One of the standout features of Etsy is its focus on handmade and one-of-a-kind products. Whether it's a handcrafted piece of jewelry, a custom-made piece of artwork, or a personalized gift, Etsy offers an extensive range of unique items that are not typically found in mainstream retail stores. This emphasis on craftsmanship and individuality allows shoppers to discover truly special and meaningful gifts that are sure to stand out and leave a lasting impression on the recipient.
Supporting Independent Artists and Small Businesses: By shopping on Etsy, customers have the opportunity to support independent artists, designers, and small businesses from around the world. Many Etsy sellers are passionate artisans who pour their heart and soul into creating their products, and purchasing from them directly helps to sustain their livelihoods and support their creative endeavors. This aspect of Etsy adds a personal touch to each purchase, knowing that it directly contributes to the success and growth of independent creators.
Customization and Personalization: Etsy offers a plethora of customizable and personalized gift options, allowing shoppers to tailor their purchases to the preferences and interests of the recipient. From monogrammed jewelry and engraved accessories to custom-designed clothing and personalized home decor, there are endless opportunities to create a truly unique and thoughtful gift that reflects the recipient's personality and style. This ability to add a personal touch to each gift enhances its sentimental value and makes it even more meaningful to the recipient.
Vintage and Retro Finds: In addition to handmade items, Etsy also boasts a wide selection of vintage and retro goods, ranging from antique jewelry and vintage clothing to collectible decor and nostalgic memorabilia. For those who appreciate the charm and character of bygone eras, Etsy provides a treasure trove of vintage finds that evoke a sense of nostalgia and offer a glimpse into the past. Whether it's a vintage vinyl record, a retro-inspired poster, or a classic piece of furniture, Etsy offers plenty of options for those seeking unique and timeless gifts with a touch of vintage flair.
Ease of Use and Convenience: Etsy's user-friendly platform makes it easy for shoppers to browse, search, and discover products that align with their preferences and interests. The intuitive interface allows users to filter their search results by category, price, location, and more, making it simple to find exactly what they're looking for. Additionally, Etsy offers convenient features such as saved favorites, buyer reviews, and secure payment options, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience from start to finish.
Etsy stands out as a fantastic destination for finding the perfect gift for someone due to its diverse selection of handmade, vintage, and personalized items. Whether it's a custom-made piece of jewelry, a unique piece of artwork, or a vintage find with nostalgic charm, Etsy offers something for everyone. By supporting independent artists and small businesses, shoppers can feel good knowing that their purchases directly contribute to the success and livelihood of creative entrepreneurs around the world. With its emphasis on craftsmanship, customization, and convenience, Etsy continues to be a go-to destination for meaningful and memorable gifts that are sure to delight any recipient.
Why is Target a Great Place to find Birthday Gifts?
Target is renowned as an exceptional destination for finding gifts for 9-year-olds, offering a diverse selection of toys, games, and accessories that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. With its extensive inventory, affordable prices, and convenient shopping experience, Target has solidified its reputation as a go-to retailer for parents, caregivers, and gift-givers alike. Here are several reasons why Target is a great place to find gifts for 9-year-olds:
Wide Range of Options: Target boasts an impressive array of toys, games, and accessories for children of all ages, including 9-year-olds. From classic board games and action figures to the latest tech gadgets and trendy toys, Target offers a diverse selection that caters to various interests and hobbies. Whether the child enjoys sports, arts and crafts, STEM activities, or imaginative play, there are plenty of options to choose from at Target.
Affordable Prices: One of the key advantages of shopping at Target is its competitive pricing and frequent sales and promotions. With a commitment to offering high-quality products at affordable prices, Target makes it easy for shoppers to find gifts that fit within their budget without compromising on quality. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a special splurge, Target offers a range of price points to suit every budget.
Convenient Shopping Experience: Target's brick-and-mortar stores provide a convenient and hassle-free shopping experience for busy parents and caregivers. With hundreds of locations across the country, shoppers can easily find a Target store nearby and browse its aisles for gifts at their leisure. Additionally, Target offers online shopping with in-store pickup and same-day delivery options, providing added convenience and flexibility for those who prefer to shop from the comfort of their own home.
Exclusive Brands and Products: Target is home to a variety of exclusive brands and products that can't be found anywhere else. From popular toy brands like LEGO and Nerf to Target-exclusive lines like Pillowfort and Cat & Jack, shoppers can discover unique and innovative gifts that aren't available at other retailers. These exclusive offerings add an element of excitement and exclusivity to the shopping experience, making Target a favorite destination for gift-givers seeking something special and unique.
Customer Reviews and Ratings: Target's website and app feature customer reviews and ratings for many of its products, allowing shoppers to make informed decisions based on the experiences of others. Whether you're unsure about the quality of a particular toy or interested in hearing what other parents have to say, Target's customer reviews provide valuable insights and help guide your purchasing decisions. This transparency and feedback mechanism ensure that shoppers can shop with confidence and trust in the products they're purchasing.
Target is a fantastic destination for finding gifts for 9-year-olds due to its wide range of options, affordable prices, convenient shopping experience, exclusive brands and products, and customer reviews and ratings. Whether you're looking for a classic toy, a trendy gadget, or something in between, Target has something for every child's interests and preferences. With its commitment to quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction, Target continues to be a top choice for gift-givers seeking the perfect present for 9-year-olds.
