How to Choose Stocking Stuffers for Preteen Boys

Looking for that perfect set of stocking stuffers for a preteen boy? Try some of these ideas. Kids in this age group are becoming independent, know how to cooperate, and are developing social skills.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Art Supplies
• Portable CD Players
• Christmas Stockings
• Painting Sets
• Pez Dispensers
• Magnifying Glasses
• Magazine Subscriptions
• Movie Tickets
• Music Gift Certificates
• Modeling Clays
• Cameras
• Film
• Baseballs
• Bike Locks And Cables
• 3-D Puzzles
• Legos
• Matchbox Cars
• Silly Putty
• Slinkys
• Action Figures
• Card Games
• Handheld Games
• Marbles
• Plastic Model Kits
• Stickers
• Yo-yos
• Dreamcast
• Nintendo Game Boys
• PlayStation Controllers
• PlayStations
• Pokémon cards

1. Think about things a preteen boy would enjoy: action figures, marbles, video games for his Nintendo 64, Sega Dreamcast or Sony Playstation 2 player, a baseball, books, passes to a theme park or movie theater.

2. Remember that preteens love the freedom to choose, so include gift certificates to online or offline stores.

3. Choose stocking stuffers he can learn from. (Educational gifts don't necessarily have to be boring.) A magnifying glass, painting set, science kit, magic tricks, a camera and film, a flashlight, or age-appropriate models might grab his attention.

4. Look for things that are fun - a Slinky, Silly Putty, small Lego sets, a Pez dispenser, a yo-yo, gift certificates for CDs, CD-Roms or DVDs, or some stickers.

5. Try a Nintendo Game Boy (or games, if he already has one), or a portable CD player if you don't mind spending that much.

6. Find cool Matchbox or Hot Wheel cars, card games, small puzzles, modeling clay or art supplies.

7. Consider a bike lock, bike light equipment, or inline skate accessories.

8. Know his hobbies. If he collects cards, such as Pokémon, sports or Star Wars, stick a pack or two in; and buy him a subscription to special interest magazines (put a gift card in the stocking, or a copy from the store to clue him in).

Tips & Warnings

• Including a special ornament for the tree (perhaps with your boy's name and the date inscribed) in the stocking every year is a nice tradition--when your son grows up, he will have a lifelong collection of ornaments.