Tween boys are funny — they have very big ideas about what they want for Christmas (usually phones, gaming money, or something wildly impractical), but as their mom… I have other plans.

This list isn’t entirely what Mac and Cam asked for — it’s what I’m actually getting them. Practical, fun, and things they’ll use daily. If you’re in that same stage with boys who want Roblox gift cards and iPhones, but you’re gifting things that make sense for your home (and your sanity), hopefully this gives you some ideas.

Mac’s Wishlist (13)

Mac is my practical kid who loves routines and good basics — so when I put his gift list together this year, I focused on things he’ll use every single day.

Organic Men’s Tee Shirts & Underwear

Tween boys suddenly care about “the good basics”. I get these for my husband too.

A New Electric Scooter

He uses his scooter daily, and it has slowly been giving out. A new one will absolutely make his Christmas.

Men’s Gloves

It gets surprisingly chilly here in January and February, especially when you’re scootering. He wanted a pair that’s warm but still easy to move in.

Fidget Pen

Both boys love these but in different versions. Mac prefers the more sleek, “grown-up” style for school.

Pedometer Watch (Not Smart)

I have a pedometer watch and my kids assure me they take more steps than me so this will make for a fun family competition.

Travel Charger

Mac has an ipad and for some reason he likes to charge it with my travel charger so he isn’t plugged into a wall. So he asked for his own for Christmas.

Bedroom Doorbell

If you have a tween, you understand. Privacy is the new currency.

Posture Corrector

This might be a gift for both of us — he slouches, I slouch, we can straighten up together.

Topgolf Gift Card

Both boys love Topgolf, and it’s one of the few activities they equally enjoy. A gift card means a guaranteed fun outing.

Cam’s Wishlist (10)

Cam is my high-energy, always-moving kid, so I chose gifts that let him be active, creative, and hands-on.

Fidget Pen

This is something they like to bring to school.

Light-Up Soccer Ball

It gets dark so early! and Cam still wants to practice in the evenings.

Yeezy Slides

Yeezy slides are pretty expensive. Living in Florida my kids wear tee shirts and shorts or sweatpants all year so I think the price of these shoes is nearly equivalent to Cam’s annual wardrobe budget but he’s been trying to track them down for a year and I finally round them in his size (5).

“OMG Bored” Games Book

Perfect for the “there’s nothing to do” moments — great for car rides, rainy days, or quiet time.

Slack Line

He loves anything that feels like a challenge or obstacle course. This is perfect for backyard play with friends.

Steal a Brainrot Fan Merch

He’s obsessed with this game!

Topgolf Gift Card

This is one of the boy’s favorite family activities — a great shared experience gift.

And yes — they asked for phones, Roblox gift cards, and other things that aren’t happening this year. But I know they’ll love these gifts, and they’ll actually use them… which feels like a parenting win.