The Best Gifts for Kids Ages 5-10

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Gifts to help kids explore and learn

School-age children are natural explorers and learners, with their brains and bodies primed for discovery through play. Between ages 5 and 10, children develop more complex thinking skills, better physical coordination, and deeper social understanding. The best gifts for grandchildren support this natural development and help grandchildren build important life skills while having fun. Our picks for gifts for this age group encourage active engagement rather than passive entertainment, allowing children to take charge of their play experience.

The best games for kids ages 5-10

Games are more than just entertainment – they're powerful tools for developing critical thinking, strategy, and social skills. Board games teach children how to follow rules, take turns, and handle both winning and losing gracefully. Strategy games like Ticket to Ride help develop problem-solving abilities and forward thinking. Cooperative games like Zombies show children how to work together toward shared goals, while competitive games like Kerplunk help them learn to handle challenges with resilience. When grandparents join in the play, these games become opportunities for meaningful connection and learning together.

Creative gifts for kids ages 5-10

Creative play is essential for children's emotional and cognitive development. Art supplies, building sets, and open-ended toys allow children to express themselves while developing fine motor skills and spatial awareness. These types of gifts also encourage children to think flexibly and solve problems in unique ways. When we provide tools for creative expression, we're showing our grandchildren that we value their ideas and imagination. This kind of play helps build confidence and self-expression skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Alternative gift ideas for kids ages 5-10

Memberships: A membership to the zoo, aquarium or children’s museum is a gift that will provide a year of enjoyment for the whole family. Again, check with your grandchild’s parents to see if this is something they’d like. To find a zoo or aquarium near your grandchildren's family, check the American Zoo Association directory.

Lessons: Talk to your grandchildren and find out what they’d like to learn to do. Play piano? Ice skate? Speak a new language? If their parents give the okay, the gift of lessons in a new skill will build confidence and give pleasure for years to come. ​

Find more gift ideas:

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