Purchasing Genderless Toys for Tween Boys

Finding toys for tween boys (ages 9 to 12) can sometimes be a challenge, especially if you are looking for genderless toys. Genderless toys are toys that are not inherently for a boy, or for a girl. They can be given to either, without influencing them to be particularly masculine or feminine. There are many sources where you can go to find these genderless toys for tween boys. Here are a few sources, as well as a few suggestions for specific toys.

1. Discount Retailers. There are always some old "standbys" when it comes to buying toys, and discount retailers are a great option. You can get a great deal at places like Wal-Mart or Kmart. I suggest looking through the games section for genderless toys. This is one section where you can find multiple options. Pictionary Jr., or Monopoly are good choices, but there are any number of games that are age appropriate.

2. Toy Retailers. There are many toy stores that provide an almost unlimited number of toy options for your tween. Not only can you shop at stores like Toys R Us, and KayBee Toys, but most toy stores now make it possible to shop online at their websites. You can again look for games, as there are many that are genderless. Some other options include video games and related action figures. If you are trying to go genderless, make sure to choose wisely in this area. Choose role playing type games with multiple characters, or games that don't seem to point to masculinity (such as football games or other male dominated sports.)

3. Specialty Websites. There are several specialty websites that sell toys. You can find just about any kind of toy available. One that I like is Skylar's Toys. There, you can find some very interesting toys such as Rep Pals (stretchable animals), Bright Buddies (small zipper pull flashlights), and Folkmanis Puppets. These are all things that tween boys could like. Spend some times looking through these types of sites, and you will find not only a genderless toys, but some truly unique toys.

4. Education Specialty Stores. There are some great education specialty stores where you can buy unique educational toys. With this, you could kill two birds with two stones: find a great genderless toy, and make it educational too! Consider a Discovery Toys store, or a Discovery Channel Toys store. You can find various science kits, games, and other toys that will serve as a fun, and yet educational gift.

5. Electronics Stores. Personal electronic products are becoming more popular at a younger age. Shopping at Circuit City or Best Buy could ensure that you get the right kind of "big boy toy" that your tween is looking for. MP3 players, personal DVD players and cell phones are all things that your tween would love to have. If you think your boy is ready for the responsibility of such a grown up product, then go for it. If not, look for something along the lines of video games, music or movies.

If you are looking for genderless gifts, these are some great options. Any one of the suggestions in this list will put a smile on your tween's face. You can buy any one of these genderless toys and make them happy for a long time!