Best Gifts for 11-Year-Old Boys (Fun, STEM, Games, and Cool Room Stuff)
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At 11, most boys want gifts that feel a little more “big kid” (real challenge, real skills, real brag factor) without being a pain to set up. I picked a mix of brainy, active, social, and room-upgrade gifts so you can match his personality—builder, gamer, athlete, or all of the above.
STEM + Building Gifts (For curious builders)
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Snap Circuits Jr. SC-100 Electronics Exploration Kit
A hands-on way to build working circuits that feels like “real” engineering, not a toy. Great for kids who love figuring out how things work.
Snap Circuits Jr. SC-100 Electronics Exploration Kit, Over 100 Projects, Full Color Project Manual, 28 Parts, STEM Educational Toy for Kids 8 +- SO MANY TOYS IN A SNAP: Make dozens of cool electronic gadgets - all from one box! A safe and fun way to introduce children ages 8+ to the basics of electrical engineering! Build exciting projects and toys using the included colorful instruction book!.Ideal for ages:8 years and up
- PROJECTS THEY'LL LOVE: So many fun electric-powered projects you can make and play! Ages 8 to 108 will love building 100+ projects! Have fun while building practical skills and learning the basics of circuitry. Build a flying saucer in a snap and watch it take off and sound the alarm! Kit includes 29 Snap Circuits parts.
- GREAT GIFT Give the gift of learning and fun this holiday season! Snap Circuits kits will keep kids busy and having fun all year round. Combine with other Snap Circuits kits for even more projects!
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LEGO Technic Audi RS Q e-tron (42160)
A more advanced Technic-style build that’s satisfying for older kids who want a longer project and a display-worthy result.
LEGO Technic Audi RS Q e-tron 42160 Advanced Building Kit for Kids Ages 10 and Up, This Remote Controlled Car Toy Features App-Controlled Steering and Makes a Great Gift for Kids Who Love Engineering- Build an ’electric’ rally car – Kids ages 10 and up who love rally cars can explore new engineering skills as they build a LEGO Technic model version of the Audi RS Q e-tron 2022 Dakar rally car
- Remote-controlled functions – Kids will love putting this remote controlled car toy to the test using the CONTROL+ app to drive forwards and backwards and steer the car
- Faithful details – This building toy set incorporates many features from the real Audi RS Q e-tron rally car, including a new Technic wheel created especially for this model
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National Geographic Mega Crystal Growing Kit
A science-meets-collection gift: he gets the fun of growing crystals and the pride of keeping/displaying the results afterward.
National Geographic Mega Crystal Growing Kit for Kids- Grow 6 Crystals with Light-Up Stand, Science Gifts for Kids 8-12, Crystal Making Experiment, Science Kit for Girls and Boys (Amazon Exclusive)- FAST GROWING CRYSTALS IN 6 COLORS - Red, Green, Blue, Purple, Yellow, and Glow in the Dark; Crystal Chemistry has never been so fast (grows in 3 - 4 days), fun and colorful!
- GROWING IS EASY – Easy-to-follow instructions and 2 silicone growing chambers make growing your crystals. Our new clear crystal seed rocks can be left in your delicate crystals and grown crystals can be placed directly into your display
- NIGHT LIGHT DISPLAY – Show off your 5 favorite home-grown crystals on the included light-up display
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Gecko Run Marble Run Starter Set (Thames & Kosmos)
A vertical marble-run style kit that encourages experimenting and redesigning—perfect for kids who like tinkering and trying “one more run.”
Gecko Run Marble Run Starter Set by Thames & Kosmos, Toy of The Year Winner - 63 Piece Vertical Marble Run, Flexible Tracks | Fast, No-Mess Setup, Residue-Free Nano-Adhesive Pads, Creative Play- Innovative: Design your own vertical marble runs with this specially designed system of flexible tracks that does not require any support structures, allowing you to build higher with fewer pieces.
- Intuitive & Mess-free: Tracks attach to smooth surfaces with the help of clever nano-adhesive pads that create a strong but temporary bond; the pads are not glue-based and can be quickly and easily repositioned without leaving behind damage or sticky residue.
- Open-ended & Educational: Combine different configurations and environments for endless possibilities; develop engineering and problem-solving skills and see physics in action.
Puzzle + Logic Gifts (Quiet focus, big wins)
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ThinkFun Gravity Maze
A logic game that turns into a build-and-test marble run—great for kids who love puzzles but still want something physical.
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ThinkFun Gravity Maze - Falling Marble Logic Game - Challenging STEM Toy for Kids 8-12 - Gravity Marble Maze - Brain-Building Fun - Educational Gift - Boosts Critical Thinking & Problem Solving- Ignite Creativity & Problem-Solving: ThinkFun's Gravity Maze sparks the imagination while honing critical thinking skills. Kids tackle engineering challenges through play, fostering intellectual development in an immersive STEM experience.
- A Hybrid of Fun & Learning for Boys and Girls Ages 8-12: The innovative Gravity Maze merges fun and education, making it ideal for fostering classroom skills. Watch as your child becomes engrossed in strategic planning in school and at home.
- Endless Adventure in Every Build: Open a world of construction possibilities as kids solve marble puzzles that challenge their imagination. Gravity Maze includes 9 towers, 3 marbles, a game grid, and a target piece for endless design possibilities.
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Educational Insights Kanoodle Extreme
Pocket-sized brain teasers that are awesome for car rides, waiting rooms, or screen-free downtime—without feeling “babyish.”
Educational Insights Kanoodle Extreme Puzzle Game, Brain Teaser Puzzle Challenge Game, Easter Basket Stuffers for Kids, Gift for Ages 8+- TIKTOK MADE ME BUY IT–OVER 4 MILLION SOLD! Millions of players around the world can’t get enough of this best-selling, award-winning, brain-bending, puzzle game
- FEATURES OVER 300 2-D & 3-D PUZZLES: From basic to truly tough, get ready to cross-train your brain. How to play? Place the pieces shown—the challenge is deciding where and how the rest of the pieces go
- THE PERFECT ! Our puzzle games and brainteaser games are the perfect gift for kids, teens, and adults!
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The Original Rubik’s Cube 3×3
A classic challenge that never goes out of style—and it’s a fun skill to show off once he gets faster.
Rubik's Cube, The Original 3x3 Cube, Problem-Solving Brain Teaser, Color-Matching Puzzle, Fidget Toy, Sensory Puzzle, for Ages 8 & Up- The Original Rubik’s Cube: A combination of math, art, & science- the iconic Rubik’s Cube is here to challenge your mind. The 3x3 has fascinated fans since its 1980 launch
- Twist, Turn, Learn: The Rubik’s Cube features 6 colored sides, each made up of 9 squares. Once the sides are jumbled up, you twist, turn, & rotate the Cube until each of the 6 sides has only 1 color
- Great For Anxiety Relief: This fidget toy pack is not only a fun brain puzzle, this puzzle toy is great to keep your hands moving in stressful moments like the classroom or the airport
Game Night Winners (Best for siblings + friends)
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Exploding Kittens (Original Edition)
Fast, funny, and easy to learn—one of those games that gets requested again and again at sleepovers.
Exploding Kittens Original Edition - 2-5 Players - Ages 7+ - 15 Minutes to Play - High Stakes Card Game - Party Game, Family Game Night, Kid and Adult Card Game- In this family card game, draw cards and try to avoid the dreaded Exploding Kitten! Use strategic action cards to skip your turn, shuffle the deck, or defuse the Kitten with laser pointers or catnip sandwiches. The last player standing wins!
- Designed for 2-5 players, ages 7 and up, Exploding Kittens is great for kids, teens, and adults alike. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or want a casual game to break the ice, this easy-to-learn game is perfect for bringing everyone together.
- Compact for travel, portable for on-the-go, camping, game nights, road trips or a family home evening.
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Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
A quick-reaction party card game that’s loud (in a fun way) and perfect when you need instant energy at game night.
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Wildly Entertaining Card Game for Family and Group Game Night | Easy to Learn and Play with 10-15 Minute Rounds | Fun for Kids, Teens, Adults, and Families | 2-8 Players- Fast-Paced Fun for All Ages: Engage in a lively game where players race to match cards with spoken words like "Taco," "Cat," "Goat," "Cheese," and "Pizza." Designed for 2–8 players aged 7 and up, each round lasts just 10–15 minutes, making it perfect for quick family card games or travel entertainment. Its simplicity and speed ensure everyone stays engaged and laughing.
- Simple Rules, Wild Gameplay: Players take turns playing cards while chanting the game's title in order. When a spoken word matches the card played, everyone races to slap the pile and the last one to do so takes the cards! Add in surprise action cards and it becomes a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud competition that's easy to learn but hard to stop playing.
- Card Games for Families and Social Events: Whether it's a holiday gathering, birthday party, or casual get-together, Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a go-to choice. Its easy-to-learn rules and engaging gameplay make it a hit among both kids and adults. It's also a top pick for stocking stuffers and Easter baskets, offering fun without the need for screens.
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Ravensburger Labyrinth
A shifting-maze board game that mixes strategy with “whoa, the board changed!” moments—great for family nights.
Ravensburger Labyrinth Board Game - A Strategic Maze Challenge for Family Nights - Find Treasures & Block Opponents - MESH Accredited - Great Birthday Gift - 2-4 Players - Kids Ages 7-10 and Older- Shifting Maze Adventure: Immerse yourself in the thrilling, ever-changing Labyrinth. This captivating family board game offers a unique strategic experience as you navigate dynamic pathways to discover hidden treasures. Challenging fun for everyone.
- Strategic Gameplay & Treasure Hunt: Navigate the shifting labyrinth to find treasures and block your opponents. Plan your route carefully and build critical thinking, cause and effect, planning, and recognition skills to outsmart your rivals.
- Easy To Learn, Tactical Family Fun: Simple rules ensure everyone can join the fun. Strategic gameplay fosters critical thinking skills for boys, girls, and adults in this captivating labyrinth board game that encourages friendly competition.
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Ticket to Ride: First Journey
An approachable strategy game that feels like a “real” board game while staying easy enough for kids to run themselves.
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Asmodee Ticket to Ride First Journey Board Game - Fun and Easy for Young Explorers! Train Strategy Game, Family Game for Kids & Adults, Ages 6+, 2-4 Players, 15-30 Min Playtime- ALL-AGES ADVENTURE: Ticket to Ride: First Journey is a family-friendly board game suitable for players of all ages, introducing them to the world of cross-country travel.
- BRAND-NEW MAP: Explore America by train on a brand-new map, simplified rules, and shorter routes, perfect for newcomers to the game.
- COLLECT TRAIN CARDS: Just like in Ticket to Ride, collect train cards, claim routes, and connect cities coast-to-coast to complete your journey.
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Jenga Classic
Simple to start, funny to watch, and surprisingly tense—great for families and groups without a big rules explanation.
Hasbro Gaming Jenga Game | The Original Wood Block Game with Genuine Hardwood Blocks | Stacking Tower | Ages 6+ | 1 or More Players | Party Games for Kids | Family Games- THE ORIGINAL WOOD BLOCK GAME: Dare to risk it? Pull out a block, place it on top, but don't let the tower fall! The Jenga game for kids and adults is the wooden block balancing game loved for generations
- FAST, EXCITING, ANYTIME FUN: With a simple set up, easy-to-learn rules, and just the right amount of challenge, the Jenga game is a great game for impromptu fun with family and friends
- GREAT KIDS PARTY GAMES: Suspense, surprises, laughs! Liven up a party by taking along this portable game. This wooden blocks stacking game is great for Family Game Night, icebreakers, and kids birthday parties
Outdoor Action Gifts (Get-the-wiggles-out energy)
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Stomp Rocket Jr. Glow Rocket Launcher
Big outdoor fun with a simple setup—perfect for backyard play and friendly “who can launch higher?” competitions.
Stomp Rocket Jr Glow Rocket Launcher for Kids, 7 Rockets - Glow in The Dark Fun Backyard & Outdoor Kids Toys Gifts for Boys & Girls -Toy Soft Foam Blaster Set - Multi-Player Adjustable Launcher Stand- RUN, JUMP, STOMP AND GLOW: Experience active fun, day and night, with Stomp Rocket’s Jr. Glow! Take turns launching glow-in-the-dark rockets with your friends and family. Includes 7 Jr. Glow Stomp Rockets, Launch Stand, Launch Pad with Air Hose. Recommended for ages 3 and up.
- LAUNCHES UP TO 100 FEET: With the help of your stomps, Stomp Rockets can launch up to 100 feet into the air. Soar into the sky at the park, the beach, the playground, or anywhere else you want to stomp!
- LEARN THROUGH PLAY: The launch stand allows kids to play while experimenting with gravity and force. Send Rockets soaring straight up into the sky or hurtling across your yard and start the journey into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) learning.
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Waboba Moon Ball
A small gift with huge play value: it bounces wildly high, which instantly turns into games and challenges outside.
Waboba Moon Ball (Colors May Vary)- A small step for Waboba, a giant bounce for mankind-thee Moon ball's crazy, gravity-defying features will turn a routine game into an out of this world experience
- Waboba moon ball makes a unique "pop!" Sound when it hits the pavement
- This high-flying outdoor ball bounces up to 100 feet in the air! (30 meters)
Sports Gifts (For the kid who always wants to play)
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Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball
A solid everyday basketball for driveways and outdoor play—great if he’s constantly shooting, dribbling, and practicing.
WILSON NBA DRV Series Basketball - DRV, Blue, Size 5 - 27.5"- Wilson NBA DRV Series Basketball - DRV, Blue, Size 5 - 27.5"
- NBA OFFICIAL: Wilson is the official basketball of the NBA. This ball features official NBA branding coupled with the iconic Wilson script
- PERFORMANCE COVER: Outdoor cover designed for grip on rough surfaces
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Franklin Sports Grip-Rite Youth Football
A youth-size football that’s easier for smaller hands to grip and throw—nice for backyard catches and learning spirals.
Franklin Sports Junior Size Football - Grip-Rite Youth Footballs - Extra Grip Synthetic Leather Perfect for Kids - Blue and White- JUNIOR SIZE: This junior football is the perfect size for kids to grip, throw and catch the ball with ease
- EXTRA GRIP: This football has a synthetic leather covering designed to provide additional grip for easier catching and throwing
- PRO STYLE LACES: The pro-style, hand sewn laces are easy to grip so young players can throw tight spirals
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Spikeball Roundnet Set
A high-energy outdoor game that’s perfect for parks and hangouts—especially for competitive kids who like quick points.
Spikeball Original Roundnet Game 1-Ball Set with SpikeBuoy Water Accessory Bundle- Competitive Spikeball Game Set: Experience the thrill of using this Spikeball game set with your friends and family when you play this outdoor lawn and yard game; now bundled with our Spikebuoy 2.0 water accessory!
- Fun Outdoor Game Set: You can set up your Spikeball game set and play Roundnet on any surface, whether it's grass, sand, or indoors, and now even the water!
- Outdoor Game: Set up the Spikeball net quickly and start playing; this spikeball set is made with durable materials for a long-lasting, outdoor family game
“Cool Room” Upgrades (Instant wow factor)
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Govee RGB LED Strip Lights (16.4 ft)
A room upgrade that makes his space feel more “his”—great behind a desk, shelves, or around a bed frame.
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Govee Smart RGB LED Strip Lights, 16.4ft WiFi LED Strip Lighting Work with Alexa and Google Assistant, 16 Million Colors with App Control and Music Sync LED Lights for Bedroom, Home Decor- Hands-Free Voice Control: The Smart RGB LED Light Strip work with both Alexa & Google Assistant. Free up your hands and power your lights on and off, change colors, or adjust brightness with simple voice commands.
- Wireless Smart App: The Govee Home app offers you advanced control over your led strip lights and access to incredible features like the customizable DIY mode and a convenient Timer function. Nice led lights for Home Decor.
- Music Sync: As halloween decorations, a built-in mic allows the smart LED strip lights to sync to any music type. Use our Govee Home app and watch in glee as your led strip lighting dance to your favorite songs.
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Rossetta Dual Lens Galaxy Projector
A chill-but-cool gift for nighttime vibes—projects a space/aurora look that makes a bedroom feel like a hangout spot.
Rossetta Dual Lens Galaxy Projector, Star Projector for Bedroom with White Noise & Bluetooth Speaker, Remote, Timer, Aurora & Nebula Night Light for Room Decor, Gifts for Kids Adults, Valentines Day- 5-in-1 Dual Lens Galaxy Projector: Rossetta light projector combines an advanced dual-lens star projector, color-changing aurora lights, nebula light projector, Bluetooth speaker, and white noise sound machine. Its dual optical lenses project a vibrant cosmos of galaxy lights and magical northern lights with 58 mixed light effects onto your walls and ceiling, instantly transforming any room into a breathtaking personal planetarium for daily relaxation and a romantic ambiance
- White Noise Sound Machine & Relaxing Night Light: Rossetta night light for kids also doubles as a white noise machine, offering multiple calming sounds to help babies, kids, and adults drift into restful sleep. Choose from soothing sounds like "Ocean Waves," "Rain," and "Crickets" to create a serene atmosphere. Perfect for bedroom, kids room, or yoga, this versatile projector promotes relaxation and helps reduce insomnia. Enhance sleep quality while providing educational entertainment
- Music Sync Mode & Built-in Bluetooth 5.4 Speaker: Transform your space with the Rossetta night light projector. Equipped with a sound-activated rhythm mode, the LED lights for bedroom pulse and shift in sync with the beat of your music. This unique feature creates a captivating light show, bringing an immersive, party-like atmosphere to any room. The integrated Bluetooth speaker easily connects to your devices, playing your favorite tunes while the lights dance in perfect harmony
Book Gift That Actually Gets Read (Especially for gamers)
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Minecraft: Beginner’s Handbook
A fun, low-pressure read that helps a Minecraft fan get better ideas for building and surviving—great paired with a small toy or game.No products found.
FAQs
What kinds of gifts usually land best at age 11?
Gifts that feel skill-based (strategy, building, mastering) or social (friends can jump in fast) usually win.
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Choose “challenge + progress” (puzzles, STEM kits)
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Choose “group fun” (party/card games)
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Choose “identity gifts” (room upgrades, hobby gear)
Are STEM kits too “school-ish” for an 11-year-old?
Not if the kit is hands-on and builds something that works.
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Look for projects with quick early wins
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Avoid kits that require lots of adult prep
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Pair STEM with a fun add-on (game night or outdoor item)
What’s a safe “active gift” if I don’t know his hobbies?
Go with easy outdoor play that doesn’t need a team or a field.
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Stomp rockets (item 13)
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Moon ball (item 14)
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Roundnet-style game (item 17)
What if he already “has everything”?
Pick upgrades and experiences-in-a-box.
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Room vibe upgrades (items 18–19)
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A new game for his group (items 8–12)
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A harder challenge version of something he likes (items 5–7)
How do I avoid buying the “wrong” version?
Stick to clear, popular base versions first.
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Choose standard editions (not bundles/refills) unless you know he needs them
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If gifting sports gear, pick all-purpose options (items 15–16)
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When in doubt, choose a game night pick (items 8–12)
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