32 Best Gifts for 8-Year-Olds That Encourages Them to Dream Big and Have Fun

If the eight-year-old in your life loves asking questions, this colorful encyclopedia is full of bite-sized facts that make learning fun and interactive. It’s packed with fun, interesting facts that make learning feel like an adventure. It’s way more exciting than the old-school versions we grew up with, and it keeps their curiosity buzzing.

I’ve given this marble run more times than I can count and it’s always a win. My nieces and nephews get completely absorbed in building and designing their own roller coaster, and I love seeing how proud they are once those marbles start flying.

What’s that smell? Oh, just the sweet, irresistible s’mores scent of this squishy and adorable pillow. It’s the perfect gift for eight-year-olds who can’t get enough stuffies—or snacks (even the pretend kind).

If your eight-year-olds are anything like the ones I know, dinosaurs are a full-on obsession. This dino kit with its cool UV “torch” lets them explore skeletons and uncover hidden secrets, making them feel like real paleontologists.

As someone who rocked the original Skip It back in the day (and yes, I still remember the ankle marks), I was so excited to gift this updated version. Eight-year-olds love the light-up wheel and how the newer versions are soft around the ankle (kids these days will never know). It folds up for easy storage, but the fun never gets old—even for me.

An eight-year-old might not always keep the polish on their nails, but that’s part of the fun! These vegan nail polishes are a go-to in my gift rotation because they’re easy to apply and even easier to peel off when ready for a redo or a fresh new look—no remover required.

I’ve been playing Throw Throw Burrito with my nephew ever since he learned how to toss. Now that he’s eight, this zombie vs. survivor edition is even a bigger hit. It’s the perfect mix of dodgeball action and teamwork, and eight is the sweet spot where they can finally master both.

If your eight-year-old is still holding out hope for their Hogwarts letter, this glow-in-the-dark kids Advent Calendar will make the wait a little more magical. Each of the 24 days brings a mini Harry Potter figurine surprise, and every morning feels like unwrapping a tiny bit of Hogwarts.

As a mom to young kids who tries desperately to skip the sugar overload if it’s possible, these macaron-inspired erases are the sweetest alternative. They’re the perfect stocking stuffer, and they’re scented—because who doesn’t want their pencil case to smell like a bakery?

Friendships are becoming a bigger deal as eight-year-olds form stronger connections. For the eight-year-olds in their Swiftie era with their BFFs, they’ll love getting creative with this DIY friendship bracelet kit. It lets them design their own unique accessories that are just as bold and fun as they are.

If you’re going to gift clothes, I learned that if a dress doesn’t have “twirl power,” it’s not even worth it. This rainbow tulle option is dressy enough for parties but soft and stretchy enough for everyday play.

Since most eight-year-olds aren’t carrying around a phone yet, I love giving them an instant camera as a fun way to capture memories in real time. It’s always a hit with kiddos who love that instant gratification of seeing their photos print right away—and it’s a great way to keep them engaged without being glued to a screen.

Got a little Jedi in your life? This Star Wars LEGO Advent Calendar unveils a new mini figure or buildable ship each day for 24 days, keeping them busy each morning while you enjoy your hot coffee in peace. “Building sets like LEGO kits challenge children to follow directions, think critically about how parts mesh together, and employ creativity when designing constructions,” says Sakariyawo.

This might look more like a crumpled ball the first few times they try this origami craft kit, but I’ve seen how once they get the hang of it, they’re super proud of their creations. It’s a great age where they can tackle instructions on their own and parents get a little break from being asked “What else can we do?” every five minutes.

Mario Kart meets UNO? Say less. This epic mashup combines two beloved best-sellers—perfect for the competitive eight-year-old during family game night. “Strategy card games are great for teaching kids to plan, think ahead, and evaluate different outcomes, which improves critical thinking foresight,” says Sakariyawo.

I love sneaking in a little learning when gifting kids—without them even realizing it. This DIY stem toy is perfect for that. They get to explore how gears work and create a motorized rainbow in their own room, which is basically the coolest thing ever.

Slime, putty, and mess—it’s the trifecta for an eight-year-old. By this age, my nieces and nephews have already gone through so much slime, but this kit takes it to a whole new level. But this Lab Kit by National Geographic takes it to the next level. Magnetic putty? Glow-in-the-dark slime? And something called “snotty” slime? Yeah, I’ll let the kids handle that one while I supervise (from a distance).

When it’s dark before dinner, a light-up soccer ball is perfect for 8-year-olds to get some wiggles out in the backyard before bedtime. ”They’re improving their motor abilities with each passing year. Sports equipment is key to promoting coordination and motor skills at this age,” says Sakariyawo.

As an aunt who grew up in the ‘90s, I love a good throwback. So I’m always super excited to introduce kids to Lite Brite when their little hands are ready to tackle those tiny pegs. It also builds patience and focus (which we all know is a bonus at this age).

I’ve seen firsthand that eight-year-olds have plenty to say, but figuring out what’s secretly on their mind is another story. This felt letter board is the perfect way for them to express themselves with funny quotes, their favorite phrase, or whatever other thoughts pop up. Plus, they can decorate it with their favorite photos for a personal touch.

Between school, soccer, and all their weekend activities, the eight-year-olds I know are always on the move. This customizable Yeti water bottle is basically indestructible and keeps their drinks cool all day long.

I remember these brain teaser trivia decks from when I was a kid, and now they’re back—and better! I love gifting these Brain Quest cards as stocking stuffers or birthday gifts because they make learning feel like a game.

As kids get older, they’re ready to take on crafts solo. If the eight-year-old in your life has an artistic side, these fun foil colors turn foam stickers and magnets into sparkling art.

As an aunt to almost-tweens, I completely get the whole “Friyay” vibe. Fridays mean staying up later, hanging out with friends, and if they’re eight, it’s the start of those much-anticipated sleepovers. My nieces love wearing this sweatshirt to kick off the weekend fun, and I love how cute and cozy it is.

At eight years old, they’re officially done with the “baby room” phase and ready to show off their style. So, what better way to level up their decor than with a mesmerizing lava lamp?

It doesn’t get more magical than this build-your-own unicorn kit. The easy-to-connect pieces are great for keeping them entertained (and off screens!) whether we’re out at a restaurant or on a long car ride.

At this age, they want their room to feel more like their own. A stylish, monogrammed pillow feels special and adds a personalized touch to their décor, giving their space that perfect blend of cozy and cool.

A typical conversation with my almost-tween nephew: “What did you do today?” “Nothing.” If that sounds way too familiar, then this topic starter set is just what your dinner table needs. Perfect for encouraging eight-year-olds to open up and share more than the typical one-word responses, it’s a fun way to get them talking, thinking, and connecting. “Sometimes eight-year-olds need a little boost when it comes to social skills. Look for role-playing games or conversation starter sets like this to help build those communication skills,” says Sakariyawo.

Hand these dice to an eight-year-old and watch as they spin hilarious, epic stories on the spot—whether they’re flying solo or playing with friends. “Storytelling games like this help with emotional growth, expression, and promote self-reflection,” says Sakariyawo. Who knows? You might just have the next Roald Dahl in the making.

If you have an eight-year-old who’s always dreaming of adventures, this series whisks them away on a time-traveling journey–starting with prehistoric times and the dinosaurs. “Many eight-year-olds with a positive attitude towards reading are indeed ready for more advanced reading, including chapter books. Encourage your child to read books they enjoy, even if they're slightly below or above their reading level. The key is to foster a love for reading!” says Sakariyawo.