Looking for the best gifts for 9-year-olds? As an aunt who’s gifted many, many presents to my own (12!) nieces and nephews—many of whom are in their tweens—I can tell you firsthand that this age group is full of strong opinions.
Nine is that magical (and sometimes confusing) age where they’re stepping into more independence, showing off their personal style, and throwing in the occasional eye roll.
By nine, it’s all about exploring friendships, curiosity, and big emotions. “Kids are tackling more complicated problem-solving and strategy games than an eight-year-old. Children are gaining more sophisticated cognitive skills and can independently focus on tasks more carefully at this age,” says Anike Sakariyawo, an educator and CEO/Founder of S.E.E.K (Seeking Education Empowers Knowledge) Foundation, Inc. “When children reach this age, they are beginning to acquire greater emotional awareness and independence, making brainteasers, coding or science kits, and strategy board games the perfect choice,” she says. They’re not just playing anymore; they’re thinking, strategizing, and plotting their next move.
But let’s not forget the social scene. It’s everything at this age. Nine-year-olds are all about friendship dynamics, teamwork, and learning to win (or lose) gracefully. Gift ideas that revolve around “co-op games, team sports, and group activities like crafting or even multiplayer video games are great for building social skills,” says Sakariyawo. Translation: anything they can do while hanging out with friends is a win.
Whether you’re shopping for a birthday gift, Christmas present, Hanukkah gift, or just because, we’ve rounded up the best gifts to get your almost-tween who’s learning more about themselves and the world around them. And if you’re looking for other age ranges, check out our gift guides for one-year-olds, two-year-olds, three-year-olds, four-year-olds, five-year-olds, six-year-olds, and teens.
