Linda sent us an e-mail and asks, "I've been invited to a birthday party for an 11-year-old boy. He's the son of an old friend, and I haven't seen him since he was 8. According to my friend, he loves science, sci-fi (big surprise) and skateboarding. It might be kind of lame to hand him a $20 or a gift certificate. So, what should I get him? Any ideas?"
Good question, Linda!
Having 14 nephews and nieces, ranging in ages from 8 to 26, we can tell you we've purchased many a gifts over the years. Our nephews' style ranged from sports-enthusiast to book lover and while cash was always an easy out, whenever they would receive an actual item, we noticed it was always appreciated.
We really like the LEGO watch, $19.99, available at Target. It's black and white and will remind him of "simpler" times when he spent hours with his LEGOs.
We also dig Urban Outfitter's Robot Calculator, $20, and finally if he's into skateboarding he may like PB Teen's skateboard shelf, $39.
Any other suggestions for Linda?
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if he is into skateboarding don't get him a skateboard shelf, get him a new deck for his board. that is the actual board part of the skateboard. find out who is favorite skater is (Bam is usually a good guess) or brand and get him a deck with cool graphics from that brand or that skater.
also a beanie with a skateboard graphic on it is always a winner, at least for my little bro.
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one more idea - u could get him a subscription to Transworld Skateboarding. this is a skateboarding mag that is kid friendly/parent approved
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There are also some good sci-fi novels for kids in this age group. Cory Doctorow's _Little Brother_ is an excellent book for a fifth/sixth grader, depending on your friend's parenting style (there's some violence in it).
view laura in la's profile