Ages 8 to 12
Educational toys that introduce new concepts and creativity.
Fine motor
A rainy day spent colouring or endless hours assembling LEGO—the precise movements of these activities require dexterity, muscle strength and hand-eye coordination, which improve your child’s hand strength, coordination, and fine and visual motor integration. 1
Sensory Learning
The sensations of sand play or the manipullations of modelling dough—when your child uses touch, sight, and sound, they improve their critical thinking, develop their sensory processing, and strengthen motor skills and problem-solving.2
Discovery & Exploration
Spend the day digging for fossils, building a robotic hand, or making a volcano erupt—not only will you equip kids with a range of skills, you’ll also instill a lifelong love of learning and an interest in innovation. 3
Cognitive Learning
Banish boredom with brain teasers, memory games, and puzzles—they’ll help develop the concentration, memory retention, spatial skills, and critical thinking your child will use every day. 4
FAQs
What types of educational toys are best for kids aged 8 to 12?
Some of the best educational toys for kids aged 8 to 12 are ones that focus on STEM subjects, complex problem-solving skills and growing creativity. Consider toys like robotics kits, coding kits, advanced building sets like LEGO or MAGNA-TILES, strategy board games and science kits. These types of toys help with critical thinking and build science and engineering skills.
What should I look for when choosing toys for pre-adolescent kids?
When shopping for pre-adolescent kids aged 8 to 12, look for toys that can offer high engagement, foster creativity and can challenge their developing skills. Consider toys like advanced building sets, STEM kits, strategy games and sports equipment. Look for toys that reflect what their current interests are. Make sure the toys you choose prioritize safety, are made from sturdy materials and are age-appropriate.
How can I create a learning space for kids aged 8 to 12?
When creating a learning space for kids aged 8 to 12, look to build one that’s organized, well-lit and free from distractions. Start by getting a spacious computer desk or gaming desk and pair it with a comfortable ergonomic chair or gaming chair that has adjustable lumbar support. Make sure you are stocked up on school supplies so they can work on homework and projects. Add a desk lamp or floor lamp for additional lighting so they don’t strain their eyes while studying. Choose a quiet spot away from high-traffic areas like the living room.
Are educational toys useful for school projects?
Yes, educational toys can be very useful for school projects because they can provide hands-on models and materials in areas like science and engineering. STEM toys are often designed with specific lessons in mind that can line up with a school’s curriculum. Depending on the subject, they can be great for demonstrating principles through hands-on experimentation.
References
1 https://schools.shrewsburyma.gov/ot/visual motor#:~:text=VISUAL%20MOTOR%20integration%20is%20a,into%20an%20accurate%20motor%20action. 2 https://www.goodstart.org.au/parenting/exploring-the-benefits-of-sensory-play 3 https://sensorysurroundings.co.uk/blogs/news/discovery-play-discovery-table-activities-educational-benefits-of-discovery-learning-for-children 4 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/what-is-cognitive-learning-theory.html#:~:text=Cognitive%20learning%20theory%20focuses%20on,build%20up%20over%20a%20lifetime 5 MentalUP. (2022). Educational Toys for 8-9 Year Olds. Retrieved from https://www.mentalup.co/blog/educational-toys-for-8-9-year-olds#:~:text=Which%20skills%20are%20developed%20with,teamwork%2C%20and%20boost%20their%20confidence 6 Parents. (n.d.). Toys for All Ages. Retrieved from https://www.parents.com/fun/toys/kid-toys/toys-for-all-ages/ 7 Playground Professionals. (2021). 6 Benefits of Educational Toys for Kids’ Development. Retrieved from https://playgroundprofessionals.com/play/toys/6-benefits-educational-toys-kids-development 8 Today. (2020). The 22 Best Gifts for 12-Year-Olds in 2020. Retrieved from https://www.today.com/shop/best-gifts-12-year-old-t195446