As girls reach the age of 12, they embark on an exciting journey of self-discovery and exploration. With their ever-growing curiosity and newfound independence, it's crucial to provide them with toys that foster their intellectual, emotional, and social development. Fortunately, there is an array of toys on the market that cater specifically to the interests and needs of 12-year-old girls. These toys allow them to expand their horizons and embrace their unique creative flair.
In this article, we meticulously curated a list of the 10 best toys for 12-year-old girls available in 2023. Designed to inspire, challenge, and entertain, these toys offer a perfect blend of fun and educational value. Whether your little one is an aspiring artist, a science enthusiast, or a lover of adventure, there is something on this list to captivate her imagination and fuel her growing passions.
So, without further ado, let's dive into 10 toy ideas that are typically well-received by 12-year-old girls in 2023!
Summary of Top Toys for 12-Year-Old Girls in 2023
| Toy Name | Description | Benefits | Price Range | Amazon, Walmart, and Game Shops |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gracie's Greenhouse | DIY Mini Model Kit | Creative, Hands-on, Nature Ba | $29.99 | Amazon |
| Simpl Dimpl | Fidget Toy | Sensory, Stress Reliever | $5 – $10 | Amazon, Walmart |
| Zoo Animals 3D Wooden Puzzle Set | 3D Wooden Puzzle | Creative, Problem Solving | $10 – $30 | Amazon, Ebay, Walmart |
| Fujifilm Instax Mini | Instant Camera | Creative, Self-expressive | $60 – $100 | Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart |
| Butterfly Craze Pillow | Bed Floor Lounger | Comfort, Play Area | $30 – $60 | Amazon |
| My Friendship Bracelet Maker | Arts and Crafts | Creative, handmade | $15 – $30 | Amazon, Walmart |
| Squishmallows | Stuffed Toys | Comfort, Collectible | $15 – $30+ | Amazon, Walmart |
| Graphic Novels | Illustrated Fantasy Fiction | Visual, Improves Reading, Creative | $10 – $30+ | Amazon, Comic Shops, Bookstores |
| Tamagotchi | Tiny, Handheld Tech Pet | Portable, Techy, Nostalgic | $15 – $30 | Amazon, Walmart, Target |
| Nintendo Switch | Handheld Tech Device for Gaming | Portable, Techy, Versatile | $199+ (Device Only) | Amazon, Walmart, Game Shops |
1. DIY Miniature Model Kit: Gracie's Greenhouse
Gracie's Greenhouse is not just a typical toy; it's a creative experience. It allows 12-year-old girls to immerse themselves in a world of imagination and craftsmanship. This DIY miniature model kit provides an opportunity for young girls to construct their very own greenhouse. It is complete with intricate details and charming accessories.
Gracie's Greenhouse offers a plethora of features that add to its appeal. From detailed flowerpots and tiny gardening tools to delicate plant specimens and a mini watering can, this kit provides all the necessary elements to create a realistic and enchanting greenhouse setting. The attention to detail and the high-quality materials make the finished product a testament to a young girl's dedication and creativity. The kit often comes with clear instructions and pre-cut pieces, ensuring that girls can jump right into their construction adventure.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
Perfect for a 12-year-old girl, this toy combines the joy of hands-on building with the fascination of gardening. The greenhouse model encourages creativity, problem-solving, and fine motor skills as girls carefully assemble and decorate each component. While constructing the miniature greenhouse, they can also learn about the importance of plants and caring for the environment.
Price Point and Where to Purchase
Priced at $29.99, this DIY Miniature Model Kit offers great value for money. It can be purchased from various online retailers, including popular platforms like Amazon and specialty toy stores that carry creative and educational toys.
By engaging with Gracie's Greenhouse, 12-year-old girls can unleash their creativity. This can enhance their problem-solving skills, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the natural world. This delightful DIY miniature model kit is the perfect choice for aspiring gardeners, imaginative builders, and young minds eager to explore the wonders of nature.
2. Simpl Dimpl – Simple Dimple
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The Simpl Dimpl – Simple Dimple is a popular line of fidget toys that has gained a lot of attention recently. While it may initially seem more suitable for younger children, its unique design and sensory appeal make it an excellent choice for a 12-year-old girl as well.
This toy features a compact, handheld design with a row of silicone bubbles on one side. Each bubble is filled with a soft, satisfying “pop” sound when pressed. This creates a sensory experience that can be both calming and entertaining. The Simple Dimple not only provides a tactile and sensory experience but also helps improve fine motor skills and relieve stress.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
For a 12-year-old girl, the Simpl Dimpl – Simple Dimple offers a portable and discreet fidget toy that can be taken anywhere. Its small size allows it to fit easily into pockets, backpacks, or even on a keychain. This makes it accessible whenever and wherever stress or anxiety strikes. It can help alleviate boredom during travel, and waiting times, or simply provide an outlet for fidgeting.
Also, Simple Dimple's popularity among various age groups fosters a sense of connection and shared interests. It can be a conversation starter and allows for interactive play, making it a versatile choice for social situations and group activities!
Price Point and Where to Purchase
The toy is reasonably priced, with a typical retail price ranging from $5 to $10. It can be purchased from a variety of retailers both online and in physical stores. Popular online platforms like Amazon, as well as toy stores and specialty shops, are likely to carry the Simpl Dimpl – Simple Dimple.
3. Zoo Animals 3D Wooden Puzzle Set
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The Zoo Animals 3D Wooden Puzzle Set is a fun and educational toy that can be a great choice for a 12-year-old girl. This set typically includes a variety of wooden puzzle pieces that can be assembled to create different zoo animal figures in three dimensions.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
This toy provides several benefits for a 12-year-old girl. Firstly, it helps develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as she manipulates and fits the puzzle pieces together. It also fosters problem-solving and spatial awareness as she figures out how to assemble the pieces in the correct order. Also, 3D puzzles can stimulate creativity and imagination. It will allow her to play and create her own stories with animal figures. She can collect different ones and decorate her room with them as well!
Price Point and Where to Purchase
As for the price, the cost of the Zoo Animals 3D Wooden Puzzle Set can vary depending on the brand, quality, and number of puzzles included in the set. Typically, these sets range from $10 to $30, with some sets being more elaborate or larger than others.
The Zoo Animals 3D Wooden Puzzle Set can be purchased from various retailers. Online platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart often offer a wide range of options to choose from. In addition, specialty toy stores and educational toy stores may carry these puzzle sets. It's recommended to check the websites or visit the physical stores of these retailers to find the specific Zoo Animals 3D Wooden Puzzle Set that suits your preferences and budget.
4. Fujifilm Instax Mini – Instant Camera
The Fujifilm Instax Mini – Instant Camera makes for a wonderful gift for a 12-year-old girl. This camera brings back the joy of instant photography in a digital world. It captures and prints photos in the moment, providing a physical copy to hold and cherish. The camera is easy to use, featuring simple controls, an adjustable brightness function, and even a selfie mirror, making it ideal for capturing moments with a fun and playful touch.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
For a 12-year-old girl, the Fujifilm Instax Mini camera offers a fun and creative outlet for self-expression. It allows her to capture memories, be it with family, friends, or enjoying her hobbies. The instant prints provide a tangible memento that can be displayed, shared, or kept as personal keepsakes. They add a sense of excitement and nostalgia as the photo develops before her eyes, fostering a deeper connection and appreciation for photography.
Price Point and Where to Purchase
The price of the Fujifilm Instax Mini camera can vary depending on the model and any additional features it may have. The price ranges from $60 to $100. It's worth noting that the film packs for the camera are sold separately and typically cost around $10 to $20 for a pack of 20 prints.
The Fujifilm Instax Mini – Instant Camera can be purchased from various retailers both in-store and online. Popular online platforms like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and B&H Photo Video often carry a range of models and accessories for the camera. Also, photography stores and specialty stores may have the camera available for purchase.
5. Butterfly Craze Pillow Bed Floor Lounger
The Butterfly Craze Pillow Bed Floor Lounger is a versatile and comfortable accessory that can be a great option for a 12-year-old girl. This lounger typically features a washable cover that can be filled with pillows, creating a cozy and fun seating or lounging area. Although not technically a “toy” in the sense of it being an interactive experience, it provides a sensory experience and makes a perfect play area for other toys.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
This lounger is perfect for a 12-year-old girl for several reasons. First, it provides a comfortable and relaxing space for her to read, watch movies, play games, or simply hang out. The floor lounger is portable, allowing her to use it in various rooms or even take it outdoors for picnics or sleepovers.
The Butterfly Craze Pillow Bed Floor Lounger encourages imaginative play and can be customized to her liking. The design options, such as prints or colors, cater to different styles and preferences, allowing her to choose a lounger that reflects her personality.
Price Point and Where to Purchase
In terms of price, the cost of the Butterfly Craze Pillow Bed Floor Lounger can vary depending on the size, design, and seller. Generally, they range from $30 to $60. It's recommended to check online platforms like Amazon or visit the manufacturer's website to find the lounger in the desired design and price range.
6. My Friendship Bracelet Maker
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The My Friendship Bracelet Maker is a fantastic toy for a 12-year-old girl who loves arts and crafts and enjoys creating personalized accessories. This bracelet maker provides a convenient and fun way to make friendship bracelets using various colorful threads.
The My Friendship Bracelet Maker typically comes with pre-cut threads and an easy-to-use bracelet-making tool, making it accessible for beginners. The threads are vibrant and high-quality, ensuring that the bracelets turn out beautifully. There are also additional threads available in different colors and materials for more design options.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
This toy is perfect for a 12-year-old girl because it promotes creativity, fine motor skills, and social interaction. It allows her to express her personality and show her friendship by making unique and meaningful bracelets for herself and her friends. The Friendship Bracelet Maker provides a simple and effective way to create intricate patterns and designs, encouraging experimentation and imagination.
Price Point and Where to Purchase
In terms of price, the My Friendship Bracelet Maker is generally affordable and can range from $15 to $30, depending on where it is purchased and any additional accessories it may come with. It can typically be found at major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and toy stores both in-store and online.
7. Squishmallows
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Squishmallows are soft and squishy plush toys that were first introduced to the toy market in 2017 by Kelly Toys Holdings LLC. These round-shaped plushies come in a variety of colors, sizes, and designs. They are known for their super soft and huggable texture, making them incredibly comforting and cuddly.
Squishmallows are typically made with marshmallowy polyester fiber stuffing, which gives them their unique softness. Each Squishmallow features a unique character design, ranging from animals to fantasy creatures. Some popular designs include animals like cats, dogs, bears, unicorns, and dinosaurs, among others.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
Squishmallows are perfect for a 12-year-old girl for several reasons. First, they are incredibly soft and huggable, providing comfort and sensory stimulation. They make great companions for relaxation, bedtime cuddles, and stress relief. They also come in a wide range of characters, from animals to fantasy creatures.
Squishmallows are even collectible, which can introduce a fun and engaging aspect of finding and trading different designs with friends. They have an all-age appeal and have even gained popularity among teenagers and adults!
It’s important to note that Squishmallows have become highly popular and may sometimes be in high demand. Certain designs or characters may be considered rare or limited edition, creating a collector's market for Squishmallow enthusiasts.
Price Point and Where to Purchase
In terms of price, Squishmallows typically range in price depending on their size and design. They can range from around $5 for a smaller 5-inch Squishmallow to $30 or more for a larger 16-inch or special edition Squishmallow. Prices may vary based on different retailers and availability.
Squishmallows can be purchased from various online retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and the official Squishmallows website. They may also be available in physical stores like toy stores, department stores, or specialty gift shops.
8. Graphic novels (featuring popular characters or stories)
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Keep in mind that when shopping for graphic novels, it's helpful to consider the recipient's interests and reading preferences. Pay attention to age appropriateness and consult reviews or recommendations to ensure the content is suitable for a 12-year-old girl.
Here are some popular graphic novels for a 12-year-old girl:
Katie the Catsitter by Colleen AF Venable – A series about a girl named Katie who takes care of cats and gets into humorous adventures.
Max and the Midknights by Lincoln Peirce – A humorous and action-packed story about a girl named Max who wants to become a knight.
Diana: Princess of the Amazons by Shannon Hale – A graphic novel featuring a young Wonder Woman and her adventures on Themyscira.
Phoebe and Her Unicorn by Dana Simpson – A series about a girl named Phoebe who befriends a unicorn, and together they go on magical adventures.
White Bird by R.J. Palacio – A deeply moving graphic novel set during World War II, telling the story of a young girl hiding from the Nazis.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
Graphic novels can be a great choice for a 12-year-old girl who enjoys reading. For example, graphic novels combine art and storytelling, making them visually appealing and engaging for readers. The combination of illustrations and text can help capture the attention of young readers and fuel their imagination. This often inspires creativity and can serve as inspiration for aspiring artists and writers, encouraging them to create their own stories and characters.
Graphic novels cover a wide range of topics and genres, from superheroes and fantasy to realistic fiction and coming-of-age stories. This allows 12-year-old girls to explore different themes and find graphic novels that align with their interests.
Reading graphic novels can also improve reading comprehension, vocabulary, and visual literacy. The visual elements provide contextual clues that help with understanding the story and can encourage deeper analysis of the text.
Price Point and Where to Purchase
The price of graphic novels can vary depending on factors like the publisher, format, and length of the book. Prices typically range from around $10 to $30 per graphic novel. You can find graphic novels at various retailers, both online and in physical stores. Online platforms like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and bookstores' websites offer a wide selection of graphic novels. Local comic bookstores or libraries may also have graphic novels available for purchase or borrowing.
9. Tamagotchi or Virtual Pet Toys
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Tamagotchi is a virtual pet toy that was first introduced in the 1990s and has recently made a comeback in popularity. It is a handheld digital device that allows users to care for and nurture a virtual pet. The concept of Tamagotchi revolves around raising and taking care of a digital creature, which requires feeding, playing, and attending to its various needs.
It's worth noting that Tamagotchis have evolved over the years, and now offer features like color screens, additional games, and different virtual pet species to choose from. Some versions may also offer connectivity with other Tamagotchis for social interaction. Checking the product description and reading customer reviews can help determine the specific features and functionality of the Tamagotchi model before making a purchase.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
Tamagotchi can be a great toy for a 12-year-old girl for several reasons. For one, Tamagotchis require regular care and attention. This can teach children the importance of responsibility by taking care of their virtual pets. They also provide interactive play and engagement. This allows girls to bond with their virtual pets by feeding, playing, and interacting with them. This can foster a sense of companionship and empathy.
The revival of Tamagotchis from decades ago can also hold nostalgic appeal for adults who have fond memories of playing with them as children. This can create a bond between parents and children through shared experiences. Tamagotchis are also tiny devices, making them a simple and portable form of tech entertainment that can keep a 12-year-old girl engaged, especially during travel or downtime.
Price Point and Where to Purchase
The price point of Tamagotchis can vary depending on the specific model and version. Generally, Tamagotchis are available at affordable price points, ranging from $15 to $30, depending on the features and design. They can be purchased from various retailers, both online and in physical stores, including toy stores, department stores, and online marketplaces like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. It's advisable to check with local retailers or reputable online platforms for availability and pricing details.
10. Nintendo Switch Lite
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The Nintendo Switch Lite is a handheld gaming system that is perfect for a 12-year-old girl who enjoys gaming and wants a versatile and portable gaming experience. Nintendo has a long history of creating popular and beloved gaming consoles. The Nintendo Switch Lite taps into the nostalgia of Nintendo by offering a portable version of a classic gaming device with modern features and games.
Some popular Nintendo Switch Lite games for a 12-year-old girl include:
Animal Crossing: New Horizons – This relaxing and charming life simulation game. It allows players to create their own island and interact with cute animal villagers.
Minecraft – A sandbox game that offers endless creativity and exploration, allowing players to build and craft in a blocky world.
Super Mario Party – A fun multiplayer party game featuring a variety of mini-games and challenges.
Splatoon 2 – This is a colorful and fast-paced multiplayer shooter game. Players control squid-like characters and engage in fun and exciting turf wars.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – An open-world adventure game with stunning visuals, offering exploration and puzzle-solving in a vast and immersive world.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – A thrilling racing game filled with iconic Nintendo characters, power-ups, and challenging tracks for multiplayer fun.
Just Dance 202X – A popular dance game that involves following on-screen choreography and dancing to a wide range of catchy songs.
Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield – Role-playing games where players can embark on a journey to become a Pokémon trainer, capturing and battling various Pokémon.
Why This Toy Is Perfect For A 12-Year-Old Girl
The nostalgia of the Nintendo Switch Lite can be appealing to parents who grew up with Nintendo consoles. It is perfect for 12-year-old girls looking for a fun and familiar gaming experience. It offers a touchscreen for interactive gameplay and supports online multiplayer gaming for connecting with friends and playing together.
The Nintendo Switch allows users to play games in handheld mode. This versatility means that a 12-year-old girl can enjoy gaming in the comfort of any room. She can even take it with her on the go, whether it's during travel or waiting for activities to start. It has a vast library of games, including popular titles from Nintendo itself, as well as third-party games. With over 1,000 games compatible with the Switch, there are plenty of options for a 12-year-old girl to find games that suit her interests and preferences.
Price Point and Where to Purchase
The Nintendo Switch Lite is priced around $199. It can be purchased at various retailers. This includes electronics stores, gaming specialty stores, and online platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and the official Nintendo website.
When considering purchasing a Nintendo Switch, it's important to keep in mind any additional expenses. This includes games, accessories, and subscription services like Nintendo Switch Online for online multiplayer and access to a library of classic NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, and Sega Genesis games.
The cost of Nintendo Switch Lite games can vary depending on the game and where you purchase it. Generally, the price range for Nintendo Switch Lite games is between $20 to $60. There are some exceptions for special editions or collector's editions which may be priced higher.
In Conclusion
Whether you're a parent in search of the perfect gift or an older sibling looking to surprise your younger counterpart, this comprehensive list of the 10 best toys for 12-year-old girls is a perfect guide. From engaging DIY kits that encourage hands-on learning to tech-centric gadgets that promote problem-solving skills, each of these toys has something to empower young minds, fostering confidence, creativity, and a thirst for knowledge.
Embracing a diverse range of interests, these toys cater to individual preferences, ensuring that every 12-year-old girl can find something that resonates with her unique personality. Keep in mind, it's important to consider a girl's specific interests and preferences when choosing a toy. Some girls may enjoy arts and crafts, while others may prefer books or tech gadgets.
Also, keep in mind the child's maturity level and individual personality when selecting a toy. And, remember to read customer reviews and double-check the features and details of the product before making a purchase to ensure it meets your expectations and the interests of the 12-year-old girl you're buying it for.
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