The top-selling toys for 9-year-old boys have kids — not marketing — in mind. Finding those gems, however, isn’t always easy.
For this age group, manufacturers push toys that promote learning and social development, says Ali Mierzejewski, the senior editor of The Toy Insider. “However, if the toy itself isn’t fun, kids aren’t going to pick it up, and then it won’t matter how many educational and social benefits it has.” It’s true toys branded with the latest movie fly off the shelves, but the well-crafted items are timeless.
At about age 9, “most children shift from imaginative play to rule-based play — like board games and sports,” says Dr. Glenda Revelle, an associate professor of Human Development and Family Sciences at the University of Arkansas. “Peer relationships and friendships are of increasing significance during middle childhood, when children begin to define themselves in relation to their peers.”
With that in mind, here are 12 toys for 9-year-old boys that earned two thumbs up from kids:
- Toy Robot
Something like the fun WowWee Robosapien X (designed by a NASA scientist!) is controlled via smartphone. “It’s cool because you can control the robot from your phone and make it do lots of different things,” says Max from California.
- Racing Game
A racing game like the Anki Drive Starter Kit is a hot pick. “I can’t believe there’s a toy like this! I love video games and race car tracks. I can play with my brother and beat him all the time,” says Adam.
- Scooter
The scooter remains the best choice in childhood transportation, especially the Razor Powerwing Scooter. According to Taran from New York, however, it could improve. “I ride my Razor everywhere. I wish mine could shoot sparks, but my mom wouldn’t like that.”
- Athletic Bag
He’ll feel like a pro toting his gear with a grown-up bag. Try the Franklin Sports Jr. Size Equipment Bag. “If I show up to a game with this, I bet other kids would be scared to play against me,” says Cooper from New Jersey.
- Word Game
For readers and word masters, check out letter games. Bananagrams WildTiles adds fast-paced action to the classic game. “This is a cool toy because you can make words with the letters and it comes with a banana case,” explains Ramon from California.
- Science Kit
Budding scientists and explorers love model kits, so the Thames and Kosmos Physics Discovery set provides a perfect option. “I would love to have my own science lab to make inventions and create things that work,” Connecticut-based Ellis says.
- Remote Control Toys
Remote control vehicles, such as the Air Hogs RC FireWing – Red R/C Flying Bird, excite kids and take time to master. “I want to fly this over my friend’s pool and fool him into thinking it’s a real bird!” says Taran.
- Building Set
Kids love creating something tangible, like with the K’NEX Supernova Blast – Roller Coaster Building Set. A win for learning and fun! “I really like this because I like to build things that actually work. Once you build it, it will be so cool — especially because it’s glow-in-the-dark,” says Adam from Connecticut.
- Quadcopter
Drones are popular this year. The WebRC XDrone Spy Quadcopter is sturdier than most and hard to knock down. “Drones are the coolest thing ever. I want one! It records video, too,” explains Max.
- Video Game
A new game is always in high demand. LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham for the Xbox 360 contains robust play and familiar characters to control and battle. “It has the best story line and the levels are really satisfying to beat,” says Brandon in Connecticut.
- Skateboard
A great intro board for this age is the Kryptonics 22″ Torpedo Skateboard. “My cousin has one and she let me try it. It’s easier for tricks. It doesn’t slide out from under me,” explains Brandon.
- Pogo Stick
Kids challenge themselves or friends with this classic. Try the Flybar Foam Master Pogo Stick. “This was my favorite birthday present! I can jump forever with this!” says Cooper.
Want more toys that will shock and awe? Check out these Wow Toys.
Cara Stevens is a freelance writer living in Connecticut with her husband and two children. She has authored several books for children and writes frequently about parenting, hair care, DIY crafts, food and healthy living.
