“They’re also constantly curious and are interested in trying new activities that’ll allow a feeling of mastery and success,” says Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a New York City-based neuropsychologist, school psychologist, and director of Comprehend the Mind. While toys that can help them improve their language and communication skills are especially great, Dr. Hafeez also recommends doing at-home science experiments, building something together, and playing brain games, like puzzles, which can “improve their memory, attention, and cognitive thinking.” We researched the best toys that’ll help your child do all of that and more, keeping in mind their recommended age, safety features, educational value, and of course, fun factor. Our top pick is a popular STEM toy, the Be Amazing! Toys Big Bag of Science Works, which includes over 65 engaging experiments, clear instructions, and nearly endless entertainment value. Here are the best toys for 10-year-olds. Price at time of publish: $37 Price at time of publish: $30 Price at time of publish: $29 Price at time of publish: $100 Price at time of publish: $41 Price at time of publish: $30 Price at time of publish: $19 Price at time of publish: $16 Price at time of publish: $20 Price at time of publish: $15 Price at time of publish: $50 Price at time of publish: $35 Price at time of publish: $90 Price at time of publish: $16 Price at time of publish: $22 Price at time of publish: $77 Price at time of publish: $100 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $20 Price at time of publish: $30 Price at time of publish: $22 Price at time of publish: $35 Price at time of publish: $20 Price at time of publish: $350 Price at time of publish: $26 Price at time of publish: $75 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $37 Price at time of publish: $13 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $18 Price at time of publish: $20 Price at time of publish: $13 Price at time of publish: $110 Price at time of publish: $200 Price at time of publish: $100 Price at time of publish: $25 Price at time of publish: $14 Price at time of publish: $33 Price at time of publish: $14 Price at time of publish: $23 Price at time of publish: $130 Price at time of publish: $80 “As a parent, you want to give them the means to blossom into a more skillful and deep-thinking mini-adult,” Dr. Hafeez says. “Rather than buying that hyped-up product in the toy store, understand what specific interests spark your child, and buy them a toy to foster those.”
Safety
This is a year of exploration and testing the limits of their independence, but they still need parental support. Before you set your 10-year-old free with a new toy, chat with them about any potential safety concerns (read: remind them to wash their hands after mixing the chemicals that come with their cool new science experiment set). If you’re gifting them an active toy, make sure they’re armed with all of the necessary protective equipment like helmets and goggles, too.
Educational Value
Ten-year-olds can be exceptionally social, says Marissa Silva, editor in chief of The Toy Insider. “They love to interact with their peers in person and online, and toys and games that will help them further these relationships will be surefire hits.” Consider multi-player board games that are geared to big groups, outdoor toys, and “anything that will spark a laugh.” At this age, while 10-year-olds develop their social-emotional intelligence and strategic thinking skills, toys that encourage problem-solving and creative thinking (like Gravity Maze or The Big Bag of Science Set) will also be beneficial, adds Silva. In short, any toy that teaches them about teamwork or helps inspire meaningful moments with their peers is a great option.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays. She’s also covered similar topics in other roles, including toy reviews, product roundups, interviews with experts, and more.
