My best friend’s son is always telling me ” Aunt Christina I am a preteen”. I like the term tween as it reminds me of the word twirp. This is the age that he is beoming less of a twirp and into a future teenager. I was enlisted again this year to dig deep and find out what he really wants for the holidays as it is becoming more difficult with his increasing age. These are a few of the items that he told me were “way cool” and “off the chain”. I think I need a pop culture dictionary when talking with him on most days.
1,. Lazer Tag Team Ops Deluxe 2-Player System- This is the ultimate in laser tag as it keeps track of the games and who is winning. It is also nice as it is sold in a set so you can play with a friend and not have to worry if your friends have one. I do dislike the fact that it takes 12 batteries.
2. Mr. Quarterback Deluxe Football Passing Machine- With most kids who are playing football this will be a great way for them to get exercise as well as learn to catch the football better. This looks like alot of fun and would be a great fall activity for the whole family. The downside to this product is the fact that it only works with the football that comes with it, so you will need to purchase additional footballs as the footballs could become lost and you would hate to have a machine that you couldn’t use.
3. Arcade Alley Electronic Laser FX Bowling- I bought this last year and this has been the biggest hit when the tween comes to play. The bowling alleys lasers have amazing colors and the features do resemble the popular lighted evening bowls that take place at most bowling alleys these days. I do suggest placing this in a basement or garage as it is a rather large item and you wouldn’t want to be rolling the ball into your favorite vase.
4. 14′ Trampoline- Trampolines are actually great for any age and they are certainly great for wearing out a 12 year old. The 14 foot is a great size for flipping without running out of room. I love the fact that trampolines now come with covers over the springs to help avoid injury and that enclosures are often offered for a reasonable price. Most trampolines can hold up to 250 pounds so this is something they can enjoy with a friend as well. I do advise checking with your homeowners insurance to be sure of the details of owning a trampoline as this will certainly draw quite a crowd from the neighborhood.
5. LEGO Star Wars: Jabba’s Sail Barge- Star Wars is a huge hit with the boys right now. Also legos are something that can be used on rainy days and it is always fun to see the result of hard work paying off by a completed project.
6. Smithsonian Motor-Works Kit- This kit is supposed to deliver a full working engine. I kind of like the fact that you will be able to accomplish something with this toy. I see lots of good educational value as well as personal growth coming from this toy.
