The Coolest Holiday Gifts For Big Kids

There’s nothing “babyish” about the items we selected for this holiday gift guide, curated especially for big kids around the ages 7-12. These items can spark creativity, promote physical activity and inspire new ways of play. With innovative technologies and styles, plus cool spins on classic items, these gifts are definitely covetable. Whether you are shopping on a budget or looking to splurge on a gift for that special kiddo in your life, any of these options are a safe bet.

Playmation Marvel Avengers Starter Pack

Playmation is a cool technology-infused game that encourages kids to be active. The 5-piece starter pack comes with a piece of wearable arm gear equipped with a motion sensor that interacts with two Smart Figures and two Power Activators. Kids can become their favourite Avenger’s character as they play individually or in multiplayer mode to physically take on 25 different missions. Players also have the option to track their progress and download additional missions via the AvengersNet app (with your permission, of course). Available at Walmart.ca, on sale for $80TOMS Shoes For Kids

A gift that gives back is always a great idea, especially around the holidays. A stylish pair of youth shoes from Toms means that both your kiddo and a child in need will receive the gift of new footwear. The mid-tops are effortlessly cool; they have a synthetic leather upper, elastic tongue straps (shoe laces optional!) and durable rubber soles. The low wedges are a nice choice for young fashionistas who are excited to dress up for seasonal festivities. Available at TOMS.com, Black Synthetic Youth Paseo-Mids, $41 and Camel Corduroy Youth Desert Wedges, $80 Microduino mCookie 101 Basic Kit

The Microduino mCookie is like blocks for big kids. Included are four small, brightly coloured modules, each with a different function: core USB, Bluetooth, battery management and sensor hub. The kit also contains a variety of sensors and accessories, like a buzzer, sound detector and LEGO connectors so that creations can be taken to the next level. A variety of instructions are available for free on their Wiki page so that kids can start off by building basic projects such as a buzzer alarm or a singing birthday cake made out of LEGOs. Available at Mircoduino.cc, $135
Disney Descendants Villain Descendants Coronation Evie

The Descendants dolls are based off of the 2015 Disney live-action film that centers on the would-be teenage sons and daughters of some of the most notable Disney heroes and villains. Kids will love having a toy version of their favourite characters, such as Evie (pictured), daughter of the Evil Queen; Mal, daughter of Maleficent; and Jane, daughter of the Fairy Godmother. Available at toysrus.ca, $20
Acer Aspire One Cloudbook

This sleek laptop is a great buy if you’re looking to surprise a child with their first computer. Kids often have to type up assignments or access information online for school and they are sure to feel a sense of independence when they get to do it on their own. This laptop is lightweight with a slim build, plus it has the convenience of Windows 10, which makes it easy to navigate between apps. Available at microsoftstore.com, $239Urbanears Kransen Headphones, Bonfire Orange

Available in a variety of attractive colours to suit any kid’s personality, these headphones have a bunch of cool features that make them stand out. The ear buds snap together and a cable loop secures the cord in place to prevent tangles when they’re packed away. A built-in remote allows kiddos to navigate through their music and the ergonomic buds ensure that they stay where they’re supposed to be. Available at urbanears.com, $50Extraordinary Animals, Illustrated by Beach, $11

This charming gift option is perfect for big kids who are looking to get more out of a children’s colouring book. The pages of this book are filled with black line illustrations, interesting animal facts, drawing prompts and hidden images to spot. Plus, there are over 100 stickers for kids to customize and use to further adorn the pages. Available at indigo.ca, $11