Toys for boys just coming into their teens
The first thought that comes to a parent's mind for children of this age these days is computer based. From games for PC's to PC's themselves, parents are hard pushed to find a child within this age range who does not have an interest in technology. The hottest toys this year for the Christmas period will cost money, though there are ways you can maximize the benefits of buying by the approach given to the gift giving. This article tells of ways to obtain these gifts and how to get good value out of the gift, bearing in mind that children have changeable interests, and that indeed today's gifts are tomorrow's unwanted items.
These are the top games machine for this year. They have multiple features which allow great gameplay with a network of worldwide players. Children of this age want a little more than boring games played amongst themselves. TheXbox Prohas been rated as the top console for the year 2009. It offers increased speed, wonderful graphics and a wide range of expensive games. The PS3 similarly offers a good range of games, and may be more suited to the younger age range.
So how can a parent make the best use of a purchase of this nature? By buying the Xbox or PS3 as a family console and limiting the purchase of games to gifts for the young boy, what this does is open up possibilities. Instead of that console belonging to one child who may get tired of it, this makes it a family item, and one which can be enjoyed by everyone, giving the young boy a chance to compete against other members of the family in their gaming hobby.
Similarly, theWiiis extremely popular, though the extra items needed are expensive. If this is bought as a family item, the best value can be gleaned from its use by letting the adults do their exercise or particular favorite activities, and offering the child the sports package which is included with the Wii. Children do tire of the games after a while, and the range of games can be expanded upon at a later date, without the initial outlay having been wasted. When buying new games for the Wii, make sure that these suit everyone, so that the best value is gleaned from the items.
For the child who has a computer, the range of games available to all price ranges is worth looking into, since the benefit of computer games is that the child's interests can be encompassed in the choice. For example, those children interested in Football may also be enthused by playing football orientated games. Harry Potter fans can take their experience a step further and learn the basics of broomstick flying with great games. Budget games are also available at all times from sites such as Amazon.com and Big Fish Games and should never be dismissed against those in high street stores, since often the discounts available are well worth it.
If there are other children in the family, it is worthwhile thinking of boardgames, since the range available on the market today means that children will have something they can do with their siblings or their parents as an interactive interest. Christmas is a time for getting together, and at this age, a child is curious enough to want to try new things.
Eight Minute Empirehave developed a board game which will enthuse the boys and get them playing more traditional games. Even the traditional favorites can be great presents. A child of this age is easily capable of learning to play backgammon, chess or checkers. As well as these, many of the word development games such as Scrabble give them a chance to develop their word power as well as have fun. Test their knowledge with Trivial Pursuits or frustrate them with a game of Triominoes.
The range of board games available from Amazon means that parents are able to buy games which suit the interests of their children, and also their budget. From stocking stuffers to those games which will become a special part of their child's development and growing up years, there is fun to be had for everyone.
The overall theme of Christmas presents should be based on sharing. This is a family time, and by being thoughtful about your choice of presents, instead of spoiling the child, you can develop a sense of responsibility and family sharing of activities. Too many parents show disappointment when that expensive games console goes away simply because a child lost interest. By making these family interests rather than specifically for one child, children learn more about sharing and indeed profit from doing just that over the Christmas period and beyond.