60 best gifts for active kids to keep them busy
When finding the perfect gifts for active kids, the goal is to keep them moving about and having fun at the same time. In today’s fast-paced, screen-obsessed world, keeping kids physically active is more important than ever now. Regular physical activity is not just about maintaining a healthy weight; it also plays a crucial role in mental wellbeing, mindfulness, and overall health. Whether your child has boundless energy or just enjoys spending time outdoors, there’s no shortage of great gifts that can provide hours of entertainment while also helping them develop critical motor skills, teamwork, and overall fitness.
This guide is designed to help you find the best gifts for active kids of all ages, so they stay active, healthy, and happy. From sports gear to imaginative play, these ideas will be a hit with the whole family.
Gifts for active kids
Engaging in sports helps your child develop essential life skills, such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Physical activities can serve as a powerful tool for reducing stress, improving mood, and boosting self-confidence. With that in mind, here are 60 of the best gifts to keep your active child entertained and moving all year round.
1. Springfree Trampoline
A Springfree trampoline is the perfect gift for active kids who love to jump and play. Its innovative design offers a safe way for kids to enjoy bouncing without the usual risks associated with traditional trampolines. This outdoor gift is a huge hit as it provides hours of entertainment for the whole family.
2. Mini Micro Scooter
The Mini Micro Scooter is such an awesome gift for young children. This scooter is not only fun but also helps develop balance and coordination, making it a great way to encourage outdoor play.
3. Stomp Rocket Jr. Glow Kit
The Stomp Rocket Jr. Glow Kit is a fun toy that offers a lot of excitement. Kids can launch foam rockets high into the air, helping your child develop gross motor skills while having fun outdoors.
4. Nike Hyperfuel Sport Water Bottle
Keeping kids hydrated during active play is essential. The Nike Hyperfuel Sport Water Bottle is a perfect start to encourage your child to drink more water while engaging in physical activities. It’s a great idea for kids involved in team sports or outdoor play.
5. Slackers Swingline
Slackers Swingline is an outdoor gift that brings the fun of a ninja course to your backyard. With ratchet straps and climbing holds, this gift is perfect for adventurous kids who love obstacle courses and active play.
6. Pickleball Set
One sport that has been gaining popularity rapidly is pickleball. Often described as a combination of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball is a fun and accessible sport for kids of all ages. A pickleball set includes paddles and balls, offering a great way for kids to develop hand-eye coordination and enjoy hours of fun gameplay.
Pickleball is ideal for children because it offers a balance of physical activity and mental engagement. The sport requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking, helping your child develop their agility and hand-eye coordination. Since pickleball can be played in singles or doubles, it also teaches valuable lessons in teamwork and communication. The game’s adaptability makes it suitable for kids of various skill levels, allowing them to improve at their own pace while having fun.
7. Laser Tag Set
For a fun game that can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors, a Laser Tag Set is a great gift. It encourages active play, teamwork, and strategic thinking, making it a favourite toy for active teens.
8. Hop Balls
Hop Balls are a fun toy that provides a great way for your child to burn off energy while developing balance and coordination. These bouncy balls are perfect for outdoor play and are a huge hit during play dates.
9. Indoor Trampoline
An indoor trampoline is an ideal gift for active kids, especially during the winter months. It offers a fun way to stay active indoors, helping your child develop core strength and gross motor skills.
10. Gymnastics Mat
A gymnastics mat is a great gift for kids who enjoy tumbling and gymnastics. It provides a safe space for practising flips, rolls, and other moves, making it a great toy for developing strength and flexibility.
11. Mud Kitchen
A mud kitchen is an outdoor play essential for encouraging imaginative play. It’s a great gift for young children who love to get messy and create their own outdoor adventures.
12. Training Wheels Bike
A bike with training wheels is a perfect start for young children learning to ride. It helps build confidence and balance, and when they’re ready, the training wheels can be removed for more advanced riding.
13. Soccer ball set
Soccer (or football to us Brits) remains one of the most popular sports worldwide, and for good reason. It’s a sport that emphasises teamwork, coordination, and cardiovascular fitness. Whether played casually in the backyard or competitively in a league, soccer offers numerous physical and social benefits.
A soccer ball set is a classic gift that encourages teamwork and physical fitness. Soccer is excellent for developing motor skills and coordination and requires players to use their feet, head, and body to control the ball, promoting balance and dexterity. In addition to physical benefits, soccer helps your child learn the importance of working together as a team to achieve common goals—a lesson that extends beyond the field. This gift is sure to get lots of use in the backyard or at the park.
14. Basketball Hoop Set
Basketball is another fantastic sport that can keep your child active and mentally sharp. The game requires agility, speed, and strategic thinking, making it both physically challenging and intellectually stimulating.
A basketball hoop set is a great way for your child to practice their shooting skills while staying active. Whether set up in the driveway or backyard, this gift offers hours of entertainment and helps improve hand-eye coordination.
15. Water Table
A water table is a great toy for young kids, offering hours of entertainment while helping to develop fine motor skills. It’s especially popular during the warmer months and makes a great outdoor gift.
16. Ratchet Straps Slackline
A Slackline is an awesome gift that challenges your child to improve their balance and focus. With ratchet straps and a sturdy line, it’s perfect for outdoorsy kids who love a challenge.
17. Obstacle Course Set
An obstacle course set is a fantastic gift for kids with endless energy. It allows your child to create their own courses and challenges, promoting physical activity and imaginative play.
18. Climbing Holds
Climbing holds are a great addition to any playset, encouraging your child to climb and explore. They’re a great gift for kids who love outdoor adventures and help build core strength and gross motor skills.
19. Tennis Racket Set
Tennis is a sport that can be enjoyed throughout a person’s life. It’s excellent for developing coordination, agility, and strategic thinking. A tennis racket set is a great gift for kids interested in learning tennis and helps develop hand-eye coordination and offers a fun way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
Starting tennis at a young age helps your child develop strong hand-eye coordination and quick reflexes. The sport also teaches strategic thinking, as players must anticipate their opponent’s moves and plan their shots accordingly. These skills are not only useful in tennis but also in many other aspects of life.
20. Pocket Knife
For older kids who enjoy outdoor activities like camping and hiking, a pocket knife can be a thoughtful and useful gift. However, it’s important to ensure they understand safety and responsibility when using it.
21. Stepping Stones
Stepping stones are a great way to add an obstacle course element to any backyard. They’re perfect for imaginative play and help develop balance and coordination.
22. Nike Running Shoes
A pair of Nike running shoes is a great gift for kids who love to run. They provide comfort and support, making them perfect for running around the park or participating in team sports.
23. Climbing Rope
A climbing rope is another great outdoor gift for adventurous kids. It’s perfect for building upper body strength and adds a fun element to any backyard play area.
24. Roller Skates
Roller skates are a classic gift that provides hours of active fun. They’re great for developing balance and coordination and can be enjoyed at the park, in the driveway, or even indoors with the right setup.
25. Archery Set
An archery set is a unique and exciting gift for kids interested in learning a new skill. It helps develop focus, patience, and hand-eye coordination.
26. Trampoline with Safety Net
For families with limited space, a trampoline with a safety net is a great choice. It offers all the fun of a trampoline while ensuring kids stay safe during play.
27. Kickball Set
A kickball set is a great way to get the entire family involved in a fun, active game. It’s perfect for outdoor play and encourages teamwork and physical activity.
28. Gymnastics Bar
A gymnastics bar is a great gift for kids who love to practice their flips and tricks. It’s perfect for indoor use and helps build strength and flexibility.
29. Swimming Pool Toys
Swimming is not just a sport but a vital life skill. It’s an activity that combines physical exercise with safety and can be enjoyed by kids of all ages. Swimming offers a full-body workout that enhances cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and improves flexibility. It’s a low-impact sport, making it ideal for children who might be prone to joint injuries or who prefer a gentler form of exercise.
Swimming pool toys are a great gift for the holiday season, providing endless fun in the water. From diving sticks to inflatable rings, these toys keep kids active and entertained.
30. Pogo Stick
A pogo stick is a fun toy that offers a great workout while improving balance and coordination. It’s sure to be a huge hit with kids who love to jump and play.
31. Martial Arts Gear
Martial arts are a great way to develop both physical and mental strength. Whether it’s karate, taekwondo, or judo, martial arts offer a structured environment where children can build discipline, confidence, and respect.
Martial arts gear, such as gloves and pads, is a great gift for kids enrolled in martial arts classes. It helps them practice safely at home and encourages discipline and focus.
32. Dance Mat
A dance mat is a fun and interactive gift that encourages kids to move and groove. It’s perfect for indoor play and helps develop coordination and rhythm.
33. Skateboard
A skateboard with some great skateboard shoes is a great gift for older kids who love to skate. It’s perfect for outdoor play and helps develop balance and coordination.
34. Rock Climbing Set
A rock climbing set is an exciting gift for kids who love to climb. It’s great for developing upper body strength and offers a fun challenge for adventurous kids.
35. Bike Helmet
A bike helmet is an essential gift for any child who rides a bike. It provides protection and peace of mind, ensuring they stay safe during their outdoor adventures.
36. Outdoor Playhouse
An outdoor playhouse is a great way to encourage imaginative play. It’s perfect for young children who love to create their own adventures in the backyard.
37. Bowling Set
A bowling set is a fun indoor or outdoor game that can be enjoyed by the entire family. It’s a great way to develop hand-eye coordination and offers lots of use during play dates.
38. Camping Tent
A camping tent is a great gift for kids who love the outdoors. It encourages a sense of adventure and is perfect for backyard camping or family trips.
39. Fishing Rod Set
A fishing rod set is a great gift for kids who enjoy spending time by the water. It’s a fun way to learn patience and enjoy the great outdoors.
40. Jump Rope
A jump rope is a simple yet effective gift for promoting physical fitness. It’s great for building cardiovascular health and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
41. Scooter with Light-Up Wheels
A scooter with light-up wheels is a fun and exciting gift for kids. It’s perfect for outdoor play and encourages active transportation.
42. Hiking Backpack
A hiking backpack is a great gift for kids who love to explore the outdoors. It’s perfect for carrying snacks, water, and other essentials during hikes or nature walks.
43. Table Tennis Set
A table tennis set is a great indoor game that helps develop hand-eye coordination and reflexes. It’s perfect for active play on rainy days.
44. BMX Bike
A BMX bike is a great gift for adventurous kids who love to ride. It’s perfect for performing tricks and exploring trails, offering hours of active fun.
45. Yoga Mat
A yoga mat is a great gift for kids interested in mindfulness and physical fitness. It’s perfect for practising yoga, stretching, or even gymnastics at home.
46. Indoor Climbing Wall
An indoor climbing wall is a unique gift that encourages physical activity and problem-solving skills. It’s perfect for limited space and provides hours of indoor fun.
47. Basketball Shoes
Basketball shoes are a great gift for kids who play basketball. They offer the support and traction needed for quick movements on the court, helping to improve performance.
48. Outdoor Adventure Kit
An outdoor adventure kit is a great gift for young explorers. It typically includes binoculars, a compass, and other tools that encourage kids to discover nature.
49. Football Set
A football set is a great way for kids to practice their throwing and catching skills. It’s perfect for outdoor play and encourages teamwork and physical activity.
50. Dance Class Gift Card
A gift card for dance classes is a great gift for kids interested in learning new dance styles. It encourages physical activity and helps develop rhythm and coordination.
51. Balance Bike
A balance bike is a perfect start for young children learning to ride. It helps develop balance and coordination without the need for training wheels.
52. Inflatable Bounce House
An inflatable bounce house is a great gift for kids’ parties and playdates. It offers hours of active fun and helps burn off energy.
53. Scooter Ramp
A scooter ramp is a great gift for kids who love to perform tricks. It’s perfect for the backyard and encourages active play and skill development.
54. Water Gun Set
A water gun set is a fun outdoor toy that provides hours of entertainment during the summer months. It’s great for play dates and encourages active play.
55. Sports Watch
A sports watch is a great gift for older kids involved in sports. It helps them keep track of time, set goals, and monitor their performance.
56. Playground Ball Set
A playground ball set is a versatile gift that can be used for various outdoor games. It’s perfect for encouraging active play and teamwork.
57. Hula Hoop
A hula hoop is a simple yet effective gift for promoting physical fitness. It’s great for building core strength and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
58. Adventure Park Pass
A pass to an adventure park is a great gift for the entire family. It offers a fun day out and encourages physical activity and exploration.
59. Dance Party Speaker
A dance party speaker is a great gift for kids who love to dance. It’s perfect for indoor play and encourages active movement and fun.
60. Gift Card for Sports Store
A gift card for a sports store is a thoughtful gift that allows kids to choose their own sports gear or equipment. It’s perfect for active kids who have specific interests or needs.
FAQ
General gift ideas for kids
What is the best gift for a kid?
The best gift for a kid depends on their interests. For active kids, consider sports equipment or outdoor toys. Creative kids might enjoy art supplies or building sets. Experience-based gifts like a day at a theme park can also be highly memorable.
What to gift a kid?
When choosing a gift for a kid, consider their interests. Toys, books, sports gear, or art supplies are always good options. For something more unique, consider an experience gift, like tickets to an event or a day trip.
What is the 5-gift rule for kids?
The 5-gift rule for kids is a strategy where you give a child five gifts, each with a specific purpose:
- Something they want,
- Something they need,
- Something to wear,
- Something to read, and
- A special gift of your choosing, often an experience or something that holds sentimental value.
Active and sporty kids
What to buy for active kids?
For active kids, consider gifts that encourage physical play and help develop motor skills, such as trampolines, scooters, or sports equipment.
How to get my child active?
To get your child active, focus on making physical activity fun and a regular part of their routine. Encourage activities they enjoy, whether it’s playing a sport, riding a bike, or simply running around the backyard. Limit screen time and replace it with outdoor play or family activities like hiking or walking. Lead by example by being active yourself, and provide the necessary equipment, such as a soccer ball or a bike, to make it easier for them to stay engaged. Positive reinforcement and making physical activity a shared experience can help instil a lifelong love of being active.
What should I get my sporty kid?
For sporty kids, look for gifts that align with their favourite sports, like a new soccer ball, basketball shoes, or a tennis racket set.
What do you buy an active boy?
Active boys might appreciate sports equipment like a basketball hoop set, soccer ball, or bike. Outdoor adventure gear such as a tent or climbing ropes can also be exciting. For something unique, consider a slackline or laser tag set.
What kind of gift fits a very active 15-year-old boy?
For a very active 15-year-old boy, consider sports gear like a new pair of running shoes, a skateboard, or a basketball. Adventure gear such as a camping set or a climbing harness might also be appealing.
Age-specific gift ideas
What are the best gifts for 10-year-olds?
For 10-year-olds, consider gifts that match their growing interests and independence. A BMX bike, rock climbing set, or sports gear like a basketball hoop set are excellent for active kids. Art supplies, science kits, or musical instruments cater to creative and curious minds.
What is a good gift for a 10-year-old boy?
A 10-year-old boy might enjoy a sports watch, video games, or STEM kits that challenge him intellectually. For active play, consider a bike, skateboard, or basketball hoop set.
What gift for a 10-year-old boy? I need help, I have no idea what I can buy for my cousin. Consider gifts that match his interests. If he’s into sports, a BMX bike, soccer ball, or tennis racket set could be great. If he enjoys building or creating, Lego sets, science kits, or art supplies might be more appropriate.
What kind of gifts would be good for a 10-year-old girl?
A 10-year-old girl might enjoy art supplies, jewellery-making kits, or craft projects. If she’s into sports, consider a new soccer ball, roller skates, or a yoga mat. Books that match her reading level are also a thoughtful gift.
What is a good gift to give to an eight-year-old for doing well in school?
To reward academic achievements, consider a personalised journal, science kits, or books related to their favourite subjects. Tickets to an educational event or an experience-based gift, like a day at a museum or science centre, can also be meaningful.
What can be the best gift for an 8-year-old boy?
An 8-year-old boy might enjoy a remote-controlled car, Legos, or an archery set. For active boys, consider a soccer ball set, skateboard, or scooter with light-up wheels. STEM kits or puzzle games are also great for combining fun with learning.
What non-toy gift can you give an 8-year-old for her birthday?
Non-toy gifts for an 8-year-old could include a subscription to a kids’ magazine, a gift card for a bookstore, or tickets to a live show or museum. Art classes or cooking classes are also excellent options.
What gifts to get for a 4-year-old girl?
For a 4-year-old girl, consider gifts like a dollhouse, dress-up costumes, or building blocks. Art supplies for colouring and drawing, or interactive books that teach basic reading skills are also great choices. A balance bike is another fun and active gift.
What is the best gift to buy a 4-year-old girl?
Consider a dollhouse, interactive books, or educational puzzles for a four-year-old girl. Outdoor toys like a tricycle or sandbox are also popular and provide hours of fun.
What is a good birthday gift for a 4-year-old boy?
A 4-year-old boy might enjoy a train set, building blocks, or a tricycle. Other great options include puzzle games, books, or outdoor toys like a water play table or mini soccer goal.
What is a good birthday gift for a 7-year-old girl?
For a 7-year-old girl, consider gifts that encourage creativity and active play. Craft kits, dance mats, or sketchbooks are great for creativity. Roller skates, a scooter, or outdoor playsets can help keep her active and entertained.
What are good birthday gifts for a 5-year-old girl?
A 5-year-old girl might enjoy gifts that encourage imaginative play, such as a mud kitchen, dollhouse, or a dress-up costume. Other great options include art supplies like a drawing kit, interactive storybooks, or educational puzzles that help with learning letters and numbers.
Non-toy and experience-based gifts
What are some good non-electronic gift ideas for kids?
Non-electronic gift ideas for kids include sports equipment, outdoor playsets, arts and crafts kits, or adventure kits that encourage exploration.
What are some easy but thoughtful gifts for kids that are not toys?
Consider gifts that focus on experiences or learning. Gift cards for classes (like dance or art), a day trip to a zoo or museum, or subscriptions to a kids’ magazine are thoughtful options. Personalized items like custom storybooks where the child is the main character, or a handmade scrapbook capturing family memories are also great choices.
What are some good birthday presents for kids that aren’t toys but still fun?
Experience-based gifts are a great alternative to toys. Consider passes to amusement parks, cooking classes for kids, or a family game night kit with board games or puzzles. Outdoor adventure kits with binoculars and compasses can also be fun and educational.
What is a meaningful gift for a child who has too many toys?
A meaningful gift for a child who has too many toys might include experiences like a day pass to an adventure park, a gift card for sports classes, or outdoor gear like a camping tent.
What do you buy a spoiled child that has every toy imaginable for their birthday?
For a child who seems to have every toy, consider experience gifts like a day at an amusement park, a subscription to a monthly activity box, or tickets to a special event. Personalised items like custom artwork or a photo book documenting special moments can also be meaningful.
What would be a meaningful gift for a 6-year-old who has too many toys?
A meaningful gift could be a personaliesd storybook, a scrapbook of family photos, or a special experience like a day at the zoo or a cooking class. A donation made in their name to a cause they care about can also teach valuable lessons.
Outdoor and active play
What are some engaging outdoor toys for children to enjoy?
Outdoor toys like a Springfree Trampoline, Stomp Rocket Jr. Glow Kit, or a Mini Micro Scooter are great options. Water play tables, kickball sets, and obstacle course kits are also engaging choices that encourage active play.
What are some good birthday presents for children who have everything?
For children who seem to have everything, consider gifts that focus on experiences or creativity, such as tickets to a special event, art classes, or membership to a local children’s museum. Customised gifts, like personalized books or unique clothing items, can also be thoughtful.
Party and group gifts
What kind of cheap prizes are good to give out for an 11-year-old’s coed birthday party?
Consider small, fun items like glow sticks, mini notebooks, keychains, or slime kits. Candy or stickers are also inexpensive and popular choices. For something a bit more special, consider DIY craft kits or personalized water bottles.
Final thoughts
Choosing the best gifts for active kids doesn’t have to be a challenge. Whether they’re into team sports, outdoor adventures, or imaginative play, there’s something on this list for every active child. Encourage them to stay active, explore their surroundings, and develop new skills with these thoughtful and exciting gift ideas.
*Collaborative feature post*
