toys for 8 - 10 year olds

[SE22mum]

I need to upgrade my 8 year old boy's toys to the next level and realise I don't have much of a clue what is out there - except for the obvious minecraft, x-box, lego etc. with christmas coming up, i could really do with a few ideas. Also for books, apart from the obvious Harry Potter. he loves animals and music.

any ideas much appreciated!

[njc97]

Steve Backshall's book (it's supposed to be Willard Price esque)?

[edanna]

For books, have you seen http://www.lovereading4kids.co.uk - it's great for recommendations for different ages.

[melbourne groover]

I was thinking of buying the battleships game (probably in a misguided old school effort) ,but I think they would like it. We are also toying with the minecraft lego (know you said about lego already but...)

Am definitely watching the thread closely as it is such a tricky age to buy for.... Smiggle stores have opened in Bromley, not sure if boys will be into it in quite the same way but it is heaven for kids. Lots of reasonably priced stuff. Is an Aussie brand that seems hellbent on worldwide domination but has pretty cool bits.

[SE22mum]

what do people feel about toy soldiers for battles?

[Mrs TP]

Has he come up with any ideas himself?

My nephews who are 7 and 10 have asked me for the minecraft books (buy one get one half price in Sains at the moment) and some figures.

What about Scalextrix (sorry rushing don't know how to spell) but good old school.

[SE22mum]

yes, he just wants an x-box. I have nothing against them except the price! oh, and the toy soldiers...

[Mrs TP]

X-boxes have not entered our world thankfully but I have seen the ads and prices :(

What about something out-door related like a skateboard?

[SE22mum]

good idea....was thinking skateboard or roller skates - any idea which is easier?

[Mrs TP]

I don't know. I would have said skates but you can easy jump off a skateboard if it is running away with you.

Less likely to grow out of a skateboard quickly although you can skates that you alter the shoe size of so will survive a bit of growth.

We have a 16yr old boy next door who still goes out and about on his skateboard, which he has had for years. Maybe a new one along the way but still does the skateboarding.