Struggling to find the perfect present for a 7-year-old? It’s that age where they’re not quite little kids anymore, but not teenagers either. Seven-year-olds are in a fantastic stage of development, mastering new skills and exploring their interests with more confidence than ever before. Finding gifts that are both engaging and developmentally appropriate is key. Luckily, the best toys and gifts for 7-year-olds are designed to fuel their growing imaginations, enhance their fine motor skills, and encourage learning through play.
Experts like Dr. Amanda Gummer, founder of Fundamentally Children, emphasize that 7-year-olds show significant improvement in fine motor skills compared to age 6. This means they are ready for more intricate crafts, detailed building projects, and activities that require precision. Susan Kambrich, head of the Woodland Hill Montessori School, highlights the importance of interactive and educational toys, including crafts, sports equipment, and building materials, as excellent choices for this age group.
Furthermore, at 7, reading takes off! They are becoming confident readers ready to dive into graphic novels, non-fiction books, and more complex chapter books. While they still enjoy picture books, their literary horizons are expanding rapidly. This gift guide is packed with ideas to tap into all these developmental milestones while ensuring they have a blast. We’ve curated a list of top-rated, expert-recommended gifts that will help your favorite 7-year-old learn, grow, and most importantly, have tons of fun.
Top Gift Picks for 7-Year-Olds in 2024
Bestselling & Engaging Gifts
Shape Shifting Box – Shashibo Geometric Fidget Toy
## Shashibo Shape Shifting Box – $24.99
This isn’t just another fidget toy; the Shashibo Shape Shifting Box is a mind-bending puzzle that offers endless hours of captivating fun for all ages. Its magnetic design allows it to transform into over 70 different shapes, challenging kids to think creatively and spatially. As one parent notes, “I’m always in awe when my daughter figures out another shape. It really keeps her occupied.” It’s a fantastic gift to stimulate their minds while providing a satisfying tactile experience.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem Pizzafire Delivery Van
Mutant Mayhem Pizzafire Delivery Van
## Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem Pizzafire Delivery Van – $29.49
Move over dream cars, it’s all about the pizza van! The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem Pizzafire Delivery Van is a seriously cool gift for any TMNT fan. This isn’t just a vehicle; it’s an adventure on wheels. Complete with all four turtles and Splinter figures, the van also boasts a pizza launcher that can fire up to eight pizza pies. It’s perfect for imaginative play and recreating their favorite turtle adventures.
L.O.L. Surprise! Color Change Bubbly Surprise
LOL Surprise Color Change Bubbly Surprise Doll & Pet
## L.O.L. Surprise! Color Change Bubbly Surprise – $29.99
The unboxing craze is still going strong, and L.O.L. Surprise! dolls are at the forefront. The Color Change Bubbly Surprise offers layers of excitement with an exclusive doll and pet, plus a fun color-changing reveal. As Dr. Gummer points out, collectibles like these are important for 7-year-olds as they foster a sense of belonging and social connection through sharing and trading. Available in two vibrant colors, each ball promises a bubbly surprise and adds to the thrill of collecting.
Tamagotchi Connection – Retro Virtual Pet
Tamagotchi Connection## Tamagotchi Connection – $29.99
Introduce the 7-year-old in your life to a classic with the Tamagotchi Connection! This updated version of the beloved virtual pet from the 90s is making a comeback and is just as engaging as ever. It teaches responsibility and nurturing skills in a fun, digital format. Recently recognized as a 2024 Shop TODAY Gifts We Love Awards winner, the Tamagotchi Connection is a nostalgic yet contemporary gift that’s sure to be a hit.
LED Light Remote Control Boats – Mini RC Speedboats
LED Light Remote Control Boats
## LED Light Remote Control Boats – $39.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $49.99)
For some splashy fun, LED Light Remote Control Boats are an excellent choice. These mini speedboats are perfect for bathtub races, pool play, or even calm streams. Easy for kids to control with just two buttons and a speed of 12 km/h, these boats light up in vibrant colors, adding extra excitement to playtime. They’re a fantastic way to encourage outdoor play and friendly competition with family and friends.
Remote Control Excavator and Dump Truck Toy Set
Remote Control Excavator and Dump Truck Toy Set
## Remote Control Excavator and Dump Truck Toy Set – $40.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $49.99)
Is your 7-year-old fascinated by vehicles and construction? The Remote Control Excavator and Dump Truck Toy Set is a dream come true. This set includes both an excavator and a dump truck, each with remote controls for realistic play. To enhance the construction scene, it also comes with mini road signs and barricades. It’s perfect for indoor or outdoor play, encouraging imaginative scenarios and fine motor skill development as they maneuver the trucks.
Active Play Gifts for 7-Year-Olds
Super Mario Hover Shell Strike Game – Tabletop Hockey
Super Mario Hover Shell Strike Game
## Super Mario Hover Shell Strike Game – $14.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $16.99)
Combine screen-free fun with a favorite video game character with the Super Mario Hover Shell Strike Game. This tabletop hockey game brings the excitement of Super Mario to life, encouraging active play and friendly competition. It works on any flat surface, even carpet, making it versatile for indoor fun. Perfect for Mario enthusiasts and kids who love to move and play.
Franklin Sports Blackhawk Pop-Up Soccer Goal – Portable Net
Franklin Sports 4## Franklin Sports Blackhawk Pop-Up Soccer Goal – $19.97 (Sale Price, Regularly $29.99)
As Susan Kambrich mentioned, sports equipment is a top gift for 7-year-olds. The Franklin Sports Blackhawk Pop-Up Soccer Goal is ideal for fostering a love for soccer. Easy to set up and portable, this goal net lets kids practice their shots and play games anywhere. With increasing strength and stamina at this age, sports become more engaging and rewarding, and this soccer goal is a great way to encourage physical activity and outdoor fun.
Go For It Golf Extendable Kids Putter – Adjustable Junior Putter
Extendable Kids Putter## Go For It Golf Extendable Kids Putter – $29.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $32.99)
Get them ready for the green with the Go For It Golf Extendable Kids Putter. This adjustable putter is designed to grow with them, making it a gift that will last for years. It’s perfect for joining in with family golf days or practicing in the backyard, encouraging outdoor activity and developing coordination skills.
Kidwinz Shock-Proof Binoculars – High-Resolution Optics
Shock-Proof Binoculars## Kidwinz Shock-Proof Binoculars – $29.99
Encourage exploration and outdoor adventures with Kidwinz Shock-Proof Binoculars. These durable binoculars are designed for kids, featuring 8x magnification and shock-proof construction. They are easy to focus, making them perfect for bird watching, nature walks, or backyard safaris. Binoculars, along with tents and walkie-talkies, are fantastic for promoting outdoor play and a curiosity about the world around them.
Crazy Forts Glow in the Dark Set – Buildable Play Fort
Glow in the Dark Crazy Fort## Crazy Forts Glow in the Dark Set – $56.75 (Sale Price, Regularly $63.99)
Unleash their inner architect with the Crazy Forts Glow in the Dark Set. This award-winning kit allows kids to build their own unique play spaces. Durable and easy to assemble, it encourages imagination and creative construction. The best part? It glows in the dark, adding an extra layer of fun to nighttime adventures and imaginative play.
Best Arts and Crafts Gifts for 7-Year-Olds
Klutz Friendship Bracelets Craft Kit – DIY Bracelet Making
Klutz Friendship Bracelets Craft Kit
## Klutz Friendship Bracelets Craft Kit – $16.46 (Sale Price, Regularly $17.99)
Friendship bracelets are a timeless craft, and the Klutz Friendship Bracelets Craft Kit makes it easy and fun for 7-year-olds to create intricate designs. The kit includes an instruction booklet that teaches complex patterns like chevron designs, along with string and beads to get started. Perfect for sleepovers, camp crafting, or just creative afternoons, it enhances fine motor skills and encourages social interaction through bracelet sharing and trading.
Rainbow Loom Combo Loomi Pals Set – Bracelet Making Kit with Charms
Loomi-Pals™ Mega Set## Rainbow Loom Combo Loomi Pals Set – $19.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $24.99)
Another fantastic bracelet-making option is the Rainbow Loom Combo Loomi Pals Set. This kit takes bracelet crafting to the next level with cute charms to add to stretchy bands. It’s accessible for beginners and allows for creative personalization. Friendship bracelets are not only fun to make but also excellent for developing fine motor skills and building social connections.
Slime Making Kit – DIY Slime Supplies
Slime Making KitSlime remains a popular sensory activity, and a Slime Making Kit is a surefire hit with 7-year-olds. This kit includes everything needed to create oddly satisfying slime, offering a tactile and stress-relieving experience. It’s a fun way to experiment with textures and colors, engaging creativity and providing hours of gooey entertainment.
Klutz Make Your Own Puffy Stickers – Sticker Design Kit
Make Your Own Puffy Stickers## Klutz Make Your Own Puffy Stickers – $19.99
Bring out their artistic side with the Klutz Make Your Own Puffy Stickers kit. This set includes designs to color and materials to create up to 60 homemade puffy stickers. It’s a perfect craft for unleashing creativity and personalizing notebooks, cards, and more. Sticker making is a delightful activity that enhances fine motor skills and artistic expression.
Grandparent Pen Pal Kit – Letter Writing Set
Grandparent Pen Pal Kit## Grandparent Pen Pal Kit – $32.00
Encourage writing skills and strengthen family bonds with the Grandparent Pen Pal Kit. This thoughtful gift provides a structured way for 7-year-olds to connect with grandparents through letter writing. It fosters intergenerational communication and makes writing fun and meaningful, enhancing both writing skills and family relationships.
Best Games and Puzzles for 7-Year-Olds
Mudpuppy Amazing Insects Glow in The Dark Puzzle – 100 Piece Jigsaw
Mudpuppy Amazing Insects Glow in The Dark Puzzle
## Mudpuppy Amazing Insects Glow in The Dark Puzzle – $8.48 (Sale Price, Regularly $11.99)
Puzzles are fantastic for developing problem-solving skills and fine motor coordination, and the Mudpuppy Amazing Insects Glow in The Dark Puzzle adds an extra layer of fun. This 100-piece puzzle features colorful insect illustrations that glow in the dark, making it engaging day or night. It’s not just entertaining but also subtly educational, introducing them to different types of insects.
Educational Insights Kanoodle – 3D Brain Teaser Puzzle
Kanoodle## Educational Insights Kanoodle – $9.97 (Sale Price, Regularly $13.99)
Challenge their minds with Educational Insights Kanoodle, a classic brain-teasing puzzle game. It includes 200 challenges that range in difficulty, perfect for solo play and developing spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills. Its compact size makes it ideal for travel, and as one reviewer mentioned, “When I first brought this around my family, everyone at every age wanted a try!” It’s fun for the whole family!
Uno Party – Multiplayer Card Game
Uno Party Card GameFor group fun, Uno Party is a fantastic choice. With over 300 cards, this version of Uno is designed for larger groups, up to 16 players. It’s perfect for parties and family gatherings, offering hours of entertainment and friendly competition. The addition of new wild cards keeps the game exciting and engaging for 7-year-olds and older players alike.
Bananagrams – Word Game Tiles
Bananagrams## Bananagrams – $19.19 (Sale Price, Regularly $24.99)
Bananagrams is a fast-paced word game that’s both fun and educational. Think of it as a more accessible version of Scrabble, perfect for improving spelling and vocabulary skills. This double version comes with enough tiles for up to 16 players, making it great for family game nights or classroom fun.
Twister – Classic Party Game
TwisterGet ready for some hilarious family fun with Twister! This classic game never gets old, encouraging physical activity, flexibility, and lots of laughter. As Shop TODAY editor Rebecca Brown says, “This game never gets old. I especially love watching my niece and nephews all play together; it’s always hilarious.” It’s a perfect way to get everyone moving and having fun together.
Taco vs Burrito Card Game – Strategy Card Game
Taco vs Burrito Card Game## Taco vs Burrito Card Game – $19.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $24.99)
Created by a 7-year-old, the Taco vs Burrito Card Game is designed with this age group in mind, but fun for all ages. It’s a strategic and competitive card game centered around building the best (or worst!) taco or burrito. Easy to learn yet engaging, it’s perfect for family game nights and developing strategic thinking in a fun way.
Overcooked! + Overcooked! 2 for Nintendo Switch – Cooperative Cooking Game
Overcooked! + Overcooked! 2 for Nintendo Switch
## Overcooked! + Overcooked! 2 for Nintendo Switch – $42.99
For video game enthusiasts, Overcooked! + Overcooked! 2 for Nintendo Switch is a fantastic and engaging option. This co-operative cooking game can be played solo or with up to four players, promoting teamwork and communication skills. It’s a fun and frantic game that’s perfect for family entertainment and developing problem-solving under pressure.
Best STEM and Educational Gifts for 7-Year-Olds
National Geographic Crystal Garden Science Kit – Crystal Growing
Crystal Growing Craft Kit## National Geographic Crystal Garden Science Kit – $13.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $16.99)
Combine science and creativity with the National Geographic Crystal Garden Science Kit. This kit allows kids to grow their own crystal garden, choosing colors and watching crystals develop on a cardboard tree. It’s a visually engaging science experiment that comes with a fact-filled book about crystals, blending hands-on learning with fascinating information.
KiwiCo Basketball Catapult – Physics STEM Project
Basketball Catapult## KiwiCo Basketball Catapult – $24.95
For kids interested in physics and basketball, the KiwiCo Basketball Catapult is an ideal STEM toy. It lets them build an adjustable catapult and learn about angles and arcs while shooting and scoring mini basketballs. This hands-on project makes learning about physics principles interactive and fun, encouraging both engineering skills and an interest in sports science.
Crayola Color Chemistry Lab – Colorful Science Experiments
Color Chemistry Lab## Crayola Color Chemistry Lab – $27.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $27.44)
Spark their curiosity with the Crayola Color Chemistry Lab. This kit features 50 colorful and exciting experiments, from erupting volcanoes to making “rubber goo.” It provides hours of engaging and educational fun, tapping into their creative genes while introducing them to basic chemistry principles.
National Geographic Geodes Kit – Break Open Geodes
Geodes Kit## National Geographic Geodes Kit – $29.99
Uncover the wonders of geology with the National Geographic Geodes Kit. This kit includes 10 geodes to break open and discover the crystal formations inside. It’s an exciting and educational activity that teaches kids about rocks and the Earth’s geological processes. With thousands of five-star reviews, it’s a proven hit for 7-year-olds and budding science enthusiasts.
3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set – 3D Art Pen
3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set
## 3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set – $49.99
Take creativity to a new dimension with the 3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set. This kit allows kids to create their own 3D art using a special pen that extrudes child-safe plastic. They can follow stencils or design their own sculptures, fostering spatial reasoning and artistic innovation. It’s a unique and engaging way to explore art and technology.
Best Dolls and Stuffed Animals for 7-Year-Olds
L.O.L. Surprise! Magic Flyers – Flying Doll
Magic Flyers## L.O.L. Surprise! Magic Flyers – $14.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $29.97)
Take L.O.L. Surprise! dolls to the skies with the Magic Flyers. These dolls come in a surprise sphere and, once unboxed, reveal a hand-guided flying doll. Charge them overnight for minutes of magical flight. It’s a fun and innovative twist on the classic L.O.L. Surprise! experience, sure to delight fans.
Warmies Fox – Microwavable Plush Toy
Warmies Fox## Warmies Fox – $29.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $32.31)
For cozy comfort, Warmies Fox is an excellent choice. This microwavable plush toy is lavender-scented, making it perfect for soothing bedtime snuggles. Simply warm it in the microwave for a comforting, warm, and fragrant companion. Available in various animals, including fox, sloth, and dog, Warmies were even featured as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things, highlighting their cuddly appeal.
Furby Interactive Toy – 90s Retro Toy
Furby Interactive Toy## Furby Interactive Toy – $41.99 (Sale Price, Regularly $69.99)
The iconic Furby is back! The Furby Interactive Toy brings the 90s sensation to a new generation. This chatty, furry friend responds to touch, voice, and prompts with phrases, sounds, and dances. It’s an interactive and expressive toy that can become a fun confidante. With taps on the head and a pizza charm accessory, Furby is ready for playtime fun and companionship.
Best Books for 7-Year-Olds
Animals, Animals, Animals! Mad Libs Junior – Fill-in-the-Blank Book
Animals, Animals, Animals! Mad Libs Junior
## Animals, Animals, Animals! Mad Libs Junior – $4.80 (Sale Price, Regularly $6.99)
For road trips or rainy days, Animals, Animals, Animals! Mad Libs Junior is a fun and educational activity book. This animal-themed Mad Libs book encourages creativity and silliness while secretly teaching grammar concepts like adverbs, verbs, and nouns. With 48 pages to complete, it provides hours of laughter and learning through wordplay.
“Cat Kid Comic Club: Collaborations,” by Dav Pilkey – Graphic Novel
“Cat Kid Comic Club: Collaborations”
## “Cat Kid Comic Club: Collaborations” – $7.55 (Sale Price, Regularly $12.99)
From the creator of Dog Man, “Cat Kid Comic Club: Collaborations” is the latest installment in the popular graphic novel series. This book inspires collaboration and storytelling, following the Cat Kid Comic Club as they create mini-comics. It’s engaging, funny, and encourages young readers to explore their own creativity through comics.
“The Year We Learned to Fly,” by Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael López – Picture Book
“The Year We Learned to Fly,” by Jacqueline Woodson and Rafael López
## “The Year We Learned to Fly” – $9.49 (Sale Price, Regularly $18.99)
“The Year We Learned to Fly” is a beautifully illustrated picture book with a powerful message about resilience and imagination. It tells the story of children who learn to use their imaginations to overcome being stuck inside. This resonates deeply with children who have navigated challenging times, teaching them the power of inner resources and creativity.
“The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza,” by Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris – Graphic Novel
“The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza,” by Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris
## “The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza” – $9.93 (Sale Price, Regularly $16.99)
A Read With Jenna Junior pick, “The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza” is a whimsical and hilarious graphic novel. Originating as live cartoons for kids during the pandemic, it features a moon queen, a robot, and an astronaut cat. It’s a fun and imaginative read that will capture the attention of 7-year-olds with its quirky humor and engaging story.
“Farmhouse,” by Sophie Blackall – Picture Book
“Farmhouse,” by Sophie Blackall
## “Farmhouse” – $11.30 (Sale Price, Regularly $18.99)
“Farmhouse” by Sophie Blackall is a beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the story of a family and their farmhouse through the years. With intricate artwork and a single, flowing sentence, it creates a captivating world that suspends time. It’s a precious and evocative book that will resonate with readers of all ages.
“Dork Diaries,” by Rachel Renee Russell – Chapter Book Series
“Dork Diaries,” by Rachel Renee Russell
## “Dork Diaries” – $13.49 (Sale Price, Regularly $14.99)
The “Dork Diaries” series by Rachel Renee Russell is a fantastic gateway into chapter books for 7-year-olds. Associate editor Sierra Hoeger recommends them as “good gateway books” to get kids excited about reading longer stories. These diary-style books are relatable, funny, and engaging, perfect for encouraging independent reading.
“Sleuth & Solve: Science,” by Ana Gallo and Victor Escandell – Science Mystery Book
“Sleuth & Solve: Science,” by Ana Gallo and Victor Escandell
## “Sleuth & Solve: Science” – $14.00 (Sale Price, Regularly $18.99)
Combine science and mystery with “Sleuth & Solve: Science.” This book presents science-inspired mysteries that encourage kids to use scientific principles to solve riddles. It’s an engaging and educational way to introduce foundational STEM concepts while developing problem-solving skills.
“Amah Faraway,” by Margaret Chiu Greanias and Tracy Subisak – Cultural Picture Book
“Amah Faraway,” by Margaret Chiu Greanias and Tracy Subisak
## “Amah Faraway” – $14.87 (Sale Price, Regularly $18.99)
“Amah Faraway” is a heartwarming picture book about cultural connection and overcoming shyness. It tells the story of Kylie visiting her grandmother in a faraway land and learning to embrace new customs. The mirrored storyline and evocative language beautifully illustrate the journey from hesitation to excitement, making it a touching and culturally enriching read.
Audible Premium Plus Membership – Audiobook Subscription
Audible Premium Plus Membership
## Audible Premium Plus Membership – $15.00/month
For developing readers, an Audible Premium Plus Membership is a wonderful gift. Audiobooks provide an accessible way to enjoy stories without the stress of reading. Audible offers a vast library, including classics like “Anne of Green Gables” and original content like “The Weirdies,” narrated by Kate Winslet. It’s perfect for fostering a love of literature and improving listening comprehension.
“Endlessly Ever After,” by Laurel Snyder and Dan Santat – Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Fairy Tale
“Endlessly Ever After,” by Laurel Snyder and Dan Santat
## “Endlessly Ever After: Pick YOUR Path to Countless Fairy Tale Endings!” – $15.19 (Sale Price, Regularly $18.99)
“Endlessly Ever After” is a unique choose-your-own-adventure style fairy tale that puts the reader in charge of the story. Following a trail of breadcrumbs through familiar fairy tale elements, it allows for countless story remixes and endings. It’s an interactive and engaging book that encourages decision-making and imaginative storytelling.
How We Selected These Gifts
Shop TODAY editors and writers are dedicated to finding the best products that make exceptional gifts for 7-year-olds. Our selections are based on thorough internet research, product reviews, expert recommendations, and our own hands-on experiences. We aim to provide a curated list that simplifies your gift shopping and ensures you find something truly special.
Meet Our Gift Experts
(Don’t forget to explore Shop TODAY’s other gift guides for more perfect presents for kids of all ages! From babies to teens, we’ve got you covered for every celebration.)
