
1. The World According To Me Personalized Book Kit ($39.95) - This is a book kit from the creators of the well-known I See Me! personalized books. One thing that makes this book even more special than the other personalized books offered on ISeeMe.com is that it includes your child's artwork and words, in addition to the usual personalization. Included inside the ready-to-wrap box is an instruction booklet (which also contains interview questions for your child), paper for drawing each themed picture, extra blank paper, a pack of 10 thin markers, and a postage paid envelope. Of course this book kit can be gifted to a child of any age, but I think it is especially perfect for a child between the ages of 8 to 11. At this age, a tween is still very much a child and still has a wonderful imagination, but he or she is beginning to truly develop a drawing style and has the patience to put a lot of detail into the illustrations. Our nearly 9 year old son thoroughly enjoyed this project. It takes approximately 3 weeks for the finished book to be shipped to you after you have submitted all the interview responses and artwork by mail or online. Our son just cannot wait to see how his book turned out! To shop for this and other personalized books, visit www.ISeeMe.com.
2. My Friendship Bracelet Maker Kit
3. The LEGO Adventure Book, Vol. 1: Cars, Castles, Dinosaurs & More!
The Unofficial LEGO Builder's Guide (Now in Color)
4. Gap Kids x Junk Food Tees ($26.95) - If you are considering buying your tween clothing for Christmas, you must make it something super-cool. Nothing is cooler than the t-shirts from Junk Food Clothing. This brand has been seen on the children of famed celebrities, such Angelina Jolie, Gwen Stefani, and Heidi Klum. For Fall/Winter 2012, Junk Food Tees have arrived at your local Gap Kids store, making it even easier for you to shop for these sought after shirts. These long-sleeved shirts are currently available in-store and online in raglans, hooded tees, and layered tees with Star Wars and superhero themes. Our son just loves the stylized artwork of the Millennium Falcon on his long-sleeved pullover hoodie. The shirt is also extremely soft because it is a polyester/cotton/rayon blend. Visit Gap.com or your local Gap Kids store to see all the shirt designs currently available. The selection will vary from store to store.
5. Kidz Bop Christmas! CD
6. Guinness World Records 2013 ($28.95) - This hardcover book is my nearly 9 year old son's most-wanted book for Christmas. Since receiving his first Guinness World Records book 4 years ago, he was hooked and has anxiously awaited for the release of the next one every year to follow. When asked what his favorite record was for the 2013 edition, my son said the man that holds the record for the largest muscles. Although this book would be fascinating to adults as well, I think the Guinness World Records book does an especially good job at encouraging tweens to read something other than fiction. The book is also filled with interesting full-color photos that make you want to find out more. You can find this book at most major book retailers, such as Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and Scholastic Books. It is currently selling on Amazon for just $16.30 with Free Super Saver Shipping. To learn more about how to set a world record of your own, visit www.guinnessworldrecords.com.
Although complimentary product samples were sent to facilitate this gift guide, all opinions expressed are my own.