Editor's Choice
LEGO
LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor
The ultimate robotics platform. Build and program 5+ robots with sensors, motors and Bluetooth. Teaches Python and Scratch.
Read ReviewCool toys and gifts for kids 10 years and up
Advanced toys for serious hobbyists. From robotics to strategy – real challenges for growing minds.
Toys
Years Old
Level
Categories
Development Milestones
The transition to adulthood
Fully Developed Abstract Thinking
Complex logic, hypothetical reasoning and philosophical thinking are now possible. Ideal for programming, science and strategic challenges.
Expertise & Specialisation
This is the age for real expertise. Thousands of hours of practice can lead to impressive skills in music, sports, art or technology.
Identity Formation
Hobbies become part of identity. "I'm a gamer", "I'm a coder", "I'm a maker" – toys support who they are becoming.
Future-Focused Skills
Programming, robotics, design, entrepreneurship – skills learned now form the foundation for careers. It's never too early to start.
Key Interest Areas
Toys that develop real skills
Our Top Recommendations
For the serious young hobbyist
STEM Award
KANO
KANO Computer Kit
Build your own computer and learn real programming skills. Hundreds of projects. Perfect starting point for future developers.
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Osmo
Osmo Coding Starter Kit
Learn programming with physical blocks. From visual to text coding. Perfect bridge to real programming languages.
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Extended
Snap Circuits
Snap Circuits Extreme
The largest Snap Circuits set with 750+ projects. FM radio, digital recorder, motion sensor and more.
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FryxGames
Terraforming Mars
Award-winning strategy game where you colonise Mars. 2+ hours gameplay, deep strategy. One of the world's best board games.
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Perplexus
Perplexus Epic
The ultimate 3D maze ball with 125 obstacles. Requires extreme concentration and patience. Addictive puzzle fun.
Read ReviewTips for Parents
Supporting the transition to adolescence
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Respect Their Expertise
Your child probably knows more about their hobby than you do. Show interest, ask questions, but don't pretend to be an expert.
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Invest in Quality
Cheap versions frustrate serious hobbyists. One quality item is better than several budget alternatives.
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Online Communities
Many hobbies have online communities. With guidance, these can be valuable learning resources and social connections.
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Hobbies ≠ Careers
Not every passion needs to become a profession. The skills they learn – perseverance, creativity, problem-solving – are applicable everywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to popular questions about 10+ year olds
Absolutely not! "Toys" for this age are really hobby tools. Robotics kits, programming platforms and complex board games are serious tools that adults use too. The line between "toy" and "hobby" blurs – and that's exactly the point.
Channel the interest rather than forbidding it. Gamers often have aptitude for programming – let them make their own games! Minecraft modding, Roblox Studio, or real game development with Unity are logical steps. The skills they learn are valuable, even if gaming remains a hobby.
Programming and computational thinking are universally valuable, regardless of future career. But more important than specific skills are meta-skills: perseverance, self-directed learning, problem-solving and creativity. You develop these by diving deep into any serious hobby.
More than ever! Modern board games offer depth that many video games lack. They're also social – face-to-face interaction with friends and family. The board game "renaissance" makes this a golden age for strategy games. Terraforming Mars, Wingspan and other "euro-games" are intellectual challenges for all ages.
Start small to test interest, but invest in quality once passion is proven. A cheap guitar or robot frustrates a serious beginner. See it as an investment in skills, not a purchase. And remember: many hobbies can earn money later or even become careers.
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Discover toys for every developmental stage.
