Long time readers of this blog will know that for years, Tag Along Toys has from time to time been a blog advertiser. We’ve worked together in many ways (Patti was the very first paid advertiser I had a decade ago!) but the truth is I’m also a customer.
My house is filled with items that we’ve collected for the kids from Tag Along Toys – games, activity sets, toys and more. So many of the items that my kids have are still used and played with (by them or cousins when we were able to see them) and the lasting quality speaks volumes as well.
I know that Patti carefully selects and finds items to be in the shop that families will love – and kids will enjoy, at any age.
But I also know that older kids can be harder to shop for so I’ve rounded up a few suggestions to help you find the perfect gift for your harder-to-shop for preteen or teen (because I understand!)
A few tips when shopping for older kids:
They are usually more than happy to offer some suggestions (at least I have found that to be the case). And while my youngest seems to have an endless list of suggestions, I appreciate that my eldest creates a shared google doc in November with links to the electronics or Funko characters etc. that he likes. Then we can pick and choose from the list! (And I wouldn’t know which gamer keyboard to get otherwise…)
Secondly, there’s always stuff they need like clothes, hair elastics and so on. Those always make great gifts (and yes, they need to be bought anyway!)
Books are a must. If you aren’t sure, grab a non-fiction or a comic.
One thing I love about this age is there’s usually an interest or reference or inside joke you can play into. Pop Culture, music, something they love and are learning about – this is the time to lean into all of that and encourage it, or just support the fun nature of it all.
Ok, here is an example of just some of the amazing items for older kids that you’ll find at Tag Along Toys! (please note – there’s even more in store!)
Squishmallows
I don’t think kids outgrow stuffies – they continually provide a source of snuggly comfort. And I have talked about Squishmallows before (I love to gift them). DD has one and it’s a constant around here.
Arts and Crafts
I remember loving to receive craft materials and kits when I was a teen (shout out to my wood burning kit and hot glue gun from nanny!) As kids get older, we move beyond finger paints and crafts that require supervision – instead, they are able to get creative and make so many items on their own (although it’s still fun to do it together). I love a kit like this gem one – the stickers can go on binders or in bedrooms to add personality.
Catapult
Adventurous creating is something that I love. Years ago we had a wooden catapult kit from Tag Along Toys that was so much fun to put together and use (it was so well used the glue started to come apart). There’s so much to learn with kits like this, but also fun to be had. And it doesn’t feel ‘childish’ at all.
Board Games
Of course my kids always have video games on their lists, but board games are a must. I know I’ve talked about Exploding Kittens before (a lot) but it’s a family favourite and as the kids get older, this is one that is guaranteed to keep their attention.
The other game I constantly recommend is Left Right Centre. It’s a game for the entire family, extended family and friends (when we can see everyone again!)
These are just a few ideas, but the best thing you can do is follow Tag Along Toys on Instagram and on Facebook where Patti shares items and you can have an idea of what she has in stock or check out the store. There’s always something to find!
