The Top Ten Toys for Boys and Girls Over 18. Big Kids Need Fun Too!

It's a sad Christmas when your gifts under the tree go from video games and toys to clothes and "necessary items." Too many people think growing up means the end of kiddy fun but that doesn't have to happen. Today's young adults are more playful and outgoing than ever and they often socialize in groups that revolve around activities. If you have a "big kid" on your list this Christmas, check out my list below to give the coolest gifts under the tree.

1. A party board game such as Cranium, Apples to Apples, or Tribonds. Board games aren't just for church basements anymore. For under 30.00 you can give the 20-something or older teen a great gift that will allow them to have fun with their friends. There's nothing my friends and I love doing more then pulling out Cranium after dinner. Regardless of their age, anyone will have a blast with a newer board game that encourages silly behavior and can accommodate four or more people. Bonus: they'll also be learning something!

2. A video game system. With the Playstation 3 and the Nintendo Wii coming out, this is going to be a huge year for pricey video game consoles. Make your twenty-something the most popular kid in Linear Equations with the gift of a game console that will bring hours of fun!

3. Sleds. Most twenty-something's own snowboards, but how about sleds? Taking a group of friends up the mountain for a day of sledding is some of the most fun winter has to offer. Pick out a high quality sled that will sit at least two people. Try sporting stores or Warehouse stores such as Costco. They usually have a nice selection for around forty dollars. Don't forget a nice thermos to go with it. Nothing finishes off a day of sledding like a spiked winter drink afterwards!

4. "Giant" games or toys. Giant Frisbee, giant badminton, giant outdoor tennis; these goofy games are perfect after cookouts, at the beach or for river bonfires. We've been giving out giant fabric Frisbees (9.99 at Target) all last year and they've been a huge hit for all ages. Try sporting goods stores and Target for giant versions of favorite outdoor toys.

5. Poker sets. Yup, poker is still hot. And if they don't already have a set, the young adults on your list will love a high quality poker set. Think clay chips, not plastic. Most kids in or just out of college can't afford quality but they can appreciate it.

6. A kayak or canoe. If you have a body of water around you this is the perfect gift for older kids. Canoes are fantastic because you can load up more people. Kayaks are more portable (especially the inflatable ones) and fun for a date. Whichever you buy, make sure it can hold more than one person!

7. A giant outdoor trampoline. Among my group of friends the most fun house to hang at is the house with the trampoline in the backyard. It's perfect for parties, cookouts, being goofy or just hanging out and talking. You can find these fun toys for around 150 dollars at stores like Kmart, Costco or sporting goods stores.

8. A karaoke machine. Save the kids a trip to the bar by bringing the party to their place! They might act like they're too cool to get excited over this gift but trust me, once a group of their friends finds out they have one, the kid on your list will wonder how they ever had a social life before the magic music machine.

9. A pogo stick or unicycle. I have both and they both get played with at least once a week. Nothing brings more entertainment then sitting outside watching our friends attempt to use either of these classic toys. Skip the knee pads, chances are they won't get used.

10. A stunt kite. These start around 25 dollars for the basic beginners kite and go all the way up. They're tons of fun and it's easy to master the basics and very involving to go beyond. Great for spending time outside, they also improve coordination and give non-sports kids a boost of confidence!