Best Video Games for Tweens

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Associates Program and other affiliate programs that earn us a commission if a qualifying purchase is made.

Marvel’s Avengers

Rated Teen

The Marvel films have taken the world by storm, with much of the focus being on an all-star ensemble of heroes known as the Avengers. Now, Earth’s mightiest heroes have their own video game that your tween is sure to leave.

Featuring awesome third-person action, Marvel’s Avengers lets you play as a variety of classic Marvel characters. Players will battle it out against an insane cast of Marvel villains as they fight to save the world.

Featuring single and multiplayer missions plus tons of challenges to do and gear to collect, your child is sure to love this game. If your child is a fan of fun action games or the Marvel universe of characters, then this game is absolutely for them.

Buy it for PS5

Buy it for Xbox One

Super Mario 3D All Stars

Rated Everyone / PEGI 7

The release of Super Mario 64 was a landmark event in the gaming industry. The Super Mario franchise practically wrote the book on what it meant to be a 3D game and what modern platformers should look like. 

Now, Nintendo has re-released Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, and Super Mario Galaxy all in one game. The Super Mario 3D All Stars collection of games brings back three legendary Mario games.

Now you can introduce your kids to all of the action of these classic titles. Players will jump, climb, race, and fly across all kinds of colorful worlds. There are loads of enemies to face, secrets to collect, and challenges to complete!

The Super Mario franchise is renowned for its ability to appeal to just about any age of gamer. As such, the Super Mario 3D All Stars collection of games is a fantastic pick for your tween.

Buy it for Nintendo Switch

Marvel’s Guardians Of The Galaxy

Rated Teen

The Avengers might be Earth’s mightiest heroes, but who will protect all of the other planets? That is where the Guardians of the Galaxy come in! Plus, they have become exceedingly popular since the release of their first film in 2014. 

Now, in their new game, players can take control of Starlord, the leader of the Guardians. Players will battle it out across a variety of locations and against some of the baddest enemies the Marvel universe has to offer.

Players will get to work with other Guardians of the Galaxy and other heroes as they fight to save the galaxy from evil. Whether your tween is a fan of the Guardians or a fan of action and shooter games, this game is perfect for them!

Buy it for PS4/PS5

Buy it for Xbox One / XBox Series X

Nintendo Pokémon Scarlet & Pokémon Violet 

Rated Everyone

Set in the open-world region of Paldea (inspired by Spain), this gaming duo offer players the opportunity to explore a vast landscape filled with wild Pokémon to catch, battle, and train. Players choose from three different starter Pokémon and embark on a journey to become the Champion of the Paldea region.

The gameplay introduces new features such as the Terastal phenomenon, which allows Pokémon to transform into sparkling forms with altered abilities.

Unlike previous titles, the games offer a non-linear story progression, allowing players to freely tackle objectives in any order. Scarlet and Violet emphasize exploration, featuring multiplayer modes where friends can join to explore the region together.

These games continue the Pokémon tradition while adding fresh elements to keep both new and veteran players engaged.

Buy it for Nintendo Switch

The LEGO Games

Rated Everyone 10+

We could put every game by the LEGO company in this entry, so why not all of them? Since the release of LEGO Star Wars: The Video Game, LEGO has consistently released quality games based off of classic franchises. 

If your tween is a fan of LEGO City, Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean, Harry Potter, DC or Marvel Superheroes or any of the other stellar properties that have been turned into LEGO games, this series is perfect for your child.

In the LEGO games, players will complete levels, explore worlds, collect characters to play as, solve puzzles, and build with LEGO bricks! Their lighthearted and quirky storylines will have fans laughing.

Plus, the simple action and fun puzzles are enough to keep any gamer coming back for more. If you are looking for a simple solution to your tween’s gaming needs, the LEGO franchise is always a safe choice.

Buy it for PS4

Buy it for Xbox One

Buy it for Nintendo Wii U

Jurassic World: Evolution 2

Rated Teen

Like its predecessor Jurassic World: Evolution, Jurassic World: Evolution 2 once again allows players to build their very own dinosaur theme park. Just like in the movies, players will have an entire island at their disposal and will need to manage resources and build their ultimate dream dinosaur park.

There are several modes to the game and all kinds of dinosaurs to collect and bring into your park. The fun of the game comes from managing guest happiness and the well-being of your dinosaurs.

Watch out, though, as failing to comply with the needs of your dinosaurs could cause them to become aggressive and attempt to escape from their enclosure. Like in the films, a dinosaur breakout spells disaster for all of your guests.

If your tween loves simulation or building games, or just dinosaurs in general, then this is the game for them, hands down.

Buy it for PS4/PS5

Buy it for Xbox One / XBox Series X

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

Rated Teen / PEGI 16

It is safe to say that the Star Wars franchise has retained its popularity even with the first film being released in 1977. Now, the newest Star Wars game puts players into the perspective of Cal Kestis, a Jedi who lives in hiding from the empire.

Players will engage in awesome lightsaber combat as they traverse through familiar and beloved planets from the Star Wars universe. Meet new and old characters and get some backstory on what happens between episodes three and four of the Star Wars film series.

There are tons to do in this game and it features one of the most engaging single-player storylines in recent gaming history. Plus, there are loads of challenges to do, gear to collect, and skills to unlock.

If your tween loves third-person action and adventure games, or anything to do with Star Wars, then this is absolutely a good choice for them.

Buy it for PS4/PS5

Buy it for Xbox One

Super Mario Party & Mario Party Superstars

Rated Everyone / PEGI 3

The Mario Party franchise has become a party game mainstay since the first entry was released for the Nintendo 64 back in the 1990’s. Now, millions of gamers compete against one another in this zany virtual board game.

In Mario Party, players will battle against one another for board game supremacy. Players will have to collect coins and other items and traverse through a board. In addition, gamers can compete against one another in the many fast-paced video games. 

Super Mario Party was the first entry of the series on the Nintendo Switch, and it brought everything that is loved about the Mario Party franchise to a new generation and a portable console.

Now, players can take all of the wacky fun of Super Mario Party with them wherever they go. In addition, Mario Party Superstars was released this year and brings all new maps, minigames, and other things to do to the franchise.

If you have several children or if your tween loves party games, the Mario Party franchise is a must-have. There are few games that are as immediately accessible and fun as Super Mario Party and Mario Party Superstars.

Buy it for Nintendo Switch

Halo Infinite

Rated Teen

The Halo franchise is back and better than ever. Before we dive into the specifics, it is worth noting that this entry is moreso for more mature tweens. 

Halo is a first-person shooter (FPS) game wherein players will fight against one another in multiplayer to win objective-based matches. Additionally, there is also a campaign that sees the hero, Master Chief, fighting against evil aliens for the good of the universe. 

This particular entry is rated T for Teen and contains less blood and strong language than previous games in the franchise. As such, it can be a good median between more child-oriented games and the wide world of adult-oriented shooter games.

On its own, Halo Infinite is tons of fun, and the multiplayer is totally free to play. Gamers who pre-order Halo Infinite will have access to tons more content including another entry in the critically acclaimed Halo campaign

There are tons of things to unlock through challenges and many ways to customize your player. Plus, the gameplay is fresh, fast-paced, and sure to offer hours of fun. If your tween is a fan of previous Halo games, or the FPS genre, then this is absolutely a good fit for them.

Buy it for Xbox One / Xbox Series X

In the current gaming market, there is, unfortunately, a rift between kids’ games and adult games. As such, it can be hard finding the right game for tweens, as it needs to be intelligent but not too mature.

There are plenty of games currently available and coming out soon that fit the bill, however, and this was a sampling of some of those titles. Ultimately, the perfect game will depend on what genres your child is interested in.

With the titles on this list, you are well on your way to finding the perfect game for your tween that is sure to offer hours of fun.

If you’ve still not found the perfect tween game or are nervous you’ll make the wrong choice, why not settle on a gaming console gift card? All you need to know is what type of video game console your tween is using:

Found this Tween Gaming Guide helpful?

Dive into our full collection of tween gift guides, including:

• Best gifts for a tween girl gamer
• 12-year-old boy gamer gift ideas
• All the best tween tech in 2026
• The Best App-based games for tweens
• Gifts for the Minecraft fan
• Perfect gifts for the tween Star Wars fan

Or select the best gifts by age group here:

The post 10 Best Video Games For Tweens in 2026 [9 to 12-Year-Olds] appeared first on Tween Parent | Family Lifestyle Blog.

Do they need headphones or earbuds? Wireless or not? Tech has certainly moved a long way since we plugged in our first Walkman (or were you trendy enough for a Discman?), so it’s time to truly understand what the tech needs of your tween are in the 2020s.

In this tween guide to headphones (aimed at your pre-teen kids, roughly 9 to 12 years of age), we’ll take a look at what your tween headphones should be able to deliver, helping you decipher some of the tech talk, then compare leading brands and styles across different price ranges.

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Associates Program and other affiliate programs that earn us a commission if a qualifying purchase is made.

Types of Headphones for Tweens

Unlike younger children, tweens need no convincing that they need headphones on while relaxing with their favorite electronic devices. But are they asking for the “right” thing?

There are three basic types of headphones to consider for your tween:

• Over-Ear Headphones: With a band that connects the two ear cups and sits over the head, the cups cover the whole ear.
• On-Ear Headphones: Similar to over-ear and attached with a headband, but the cups sit on top of the ear.
• In-Ear Buds: Instead of cups covering the ear, small buds sit at the opening of the ear canal.

Over-Ear Headphones

On-Ear Headphones

In-Ear Buds

Over-ear headphones will undoubtedly deliver better quality sound and block out external noise better, whilst buds are lighter and more portable. On-ear headphones work well with kids who wear glasses and don’t like heavy objects on their head.

You may find that your tween needs both headphones and earbuds for different situations.

Features to Look For in Good Headphones for Tweens – Deciphering the Tech Talk

Buying headphones for a tween is no easy job! There will be pressure to be on trend with the latest tech, but at the end of the day, you know that these items can still get lost or damaged, and you want to get them something that will be seen as good value for money.

Let’s take a closer look at the key features to look out for when choosing your tweens headphones – or jump straight to our favorites here.

Wired vs Wireless

Wired headphones or earbuds deliver excellent sound quality without interruptions due to analog signals and require nothing to be powered – plug in and listen. It does mean you need to be within close proximity to the device you’re listening to – ideal when you’re at a desk, in a car, or on the bus.

Wireless headphones, on the other hand, give the wearer greater flexibility to move around without being wired into a device, but they will need to be charged at some point, and you can lose a little in sound quality.

You can often find headphones for tweens that offer both features.

Some key features/descriptions to look out for when picking the perfect headphones for your tween:

• Bluetooth Connectivity – Most wireless devices will use the leading technology known as Bluetooth. You will find Bluetooth devices range from the tiniest of buds to the largest of headsets that then connect to the device that’s playing their audio.

• Battery Life – One of the downfalls of a wireless device, it does need to be charged at some point. Playtime is dictated by battery life. The larger the device, the longer it will hold a charge. Generally speaking, over-ear headphones deliver many more hours of playtime than buds. This area of tech is constantly improving, though, so when weighing up between headphone models, this could be a key factor to consider.

• Wireless Range – How far can you be from your device playing the music audio and still get excellent sound quality? This can be essential if your tween is listening to their device while doing sports or chores and may not have their device immediately on them.

• Tangle-Free Wire – If you are going the wired route, nothing is perfect, but for those marked as “tangle-free,” the design and materials are such that the cord is more durable and less likely to twist into itself. We all know that frustration!

Sound Quality

The important part of wearing headphones is that your tween can clearly hear what they’re listening to while blocking out noise around them.

Volume Limiting

When picking out headphones for younger kids, you’ve undoubtedly found that a volume limiter is essential to protect them from noise-induced hearing loss. Whilst a tween’s hearing is not AS sensitive as young children, you may still want to consider volume control as an essential feature in protecting their ears.

Most teen/adult headphones can have volumes up to 110 dBA, but researchers have found that people exposed over long periods to noise levels at 85 dBA or higher are at a much greater risk for hearing loss.

Noise Canceling

Noise-canceling, on the other hand, looks at blocking out unwanted external noises; the headphones are fitted with technology that provides a physical barrier between the ears and the outside world. The noise-canceling feature can prevent your tween from needing to turn the sound up too high to hear (but it can also make them unable to hear you shout out!)

Color, Style & Sizing

Sizing

Like everything else about them, your tween’s head is growing fast! It’s not quite big enough for full adult headphones but too large for toddler headphones, particularly overhead designs. Look for adjustable over-ear headphones that won’t instantly fall off your tween’s head.

When looking at buds, some come with variable plug sizes for the ears. This may provide a more comfortable fit for a tween whose ears are still not yet fully grown.

Design

Another good feature to look for in tween headphones is foldable over-ear headphones. This way, they can be compactly folded away into a case when not in use, which is ideal for fitting in their backpack.

Style

End of the day, your tween is probably equally as interested in how their headphones look as they are in the sound quality. You may want to shop by brands offering the widest variety of color choices if you are happy to compromise on other features.

They are at a tenuous age where something colored and playful is no doubt still important to them, but slowly being overtaken by the need to be ‘on trend’ – it’s up to you to temper these two needs based on your tween’s age and stage!

Additional Features of Gaming Headphones

Has your tween been begging you for gaming headphones, and you’re still unclear why they can’t just use their regular headphones?

The key difference is that they offer excellent sound quality and a built-in microphone for hands-free communication. Don’t tell my tweens I said it, but no, it’s not REALLY necessary at this age (but yes, mine have convinced me of the importance of separate gaming headphones!)

Pricing of Tween Headphones

Headphones, unfortunately, have never proven themselves as a highly durable product that will last you for years.

The price can vary vastly when looking at tween headphones and earbuds. There are a few things you’re paying for – the materials, the tech, and the brand.

The brand goes hand in hand with the materials and the tech; you expect the better-known brands to deliver the best materials and use the most advanced technology. They also have great marketing teams that convince us they’re THE product we need.

For the most part, this is true, but don’t be afraid to try lesser-known brands if the features and the price tag stack up. We’ve tried to include a mixture of different budgets and well-known brands so you can make a balanced choice.

Best Headphones for Tweens

So let’s dive into it: headphones, buds, gamer headphones, what products can you buy online that fit the key criteria you’re looking for in tween headphones?

Our Top Pick On-Ear Headphones: Puro Sound Labs BT2200s

Delivering true volume-limiting technology, Puro Sound Labs BT2200s are a hugely popular choice for tweens. They bring the comfort and style a tween needs in a more grown-up on-ear headphones while knowing their hearing is still protected, volume limited at 85dBA.

Don’t worry that this will compromise on sound; they can block up to 82% of ambient noise, meaning your tween won’t be tempted to crank the sound. A built-in mic is ideal for home learning or chatting with friends, and they come in both wired and wireless, depending on your tween’s preference.

We love it because:

• Volume limited to 85dBA
• Excellent 30-foot range
• Mic included
• You can swap out the earpads from on-ear to over-ear style if that’s your preference
• Comes with a hard carry case
• Offer a great range of different colors
• 20 hours of battery life for music playback and 200 hours of standby

Best Over-Ear Headphones for Tweens: Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Over-Ear Headphone 

These over-ear wireless headphones are bound to be a popular choice on your tween’s wishlist. Reputable brand Skullcandy delivers a seamless listening experience in these trendy wireless headphones available in several fashionable shades.

Best suited to your older tween/teen (one size, but the smallest setting should fit most tween heads), Crusher EVO headphones are made for those who love their music and really want to feel the bass and provide superior battery life over many other wireless headphone products.

We love it because:

• Bluetooth wireless with mic
• Rapid Charge – 10 minutes can give you 4 hours of playtime
• Fully charged (a USB-C cord is included), they will last up to 40 hours
• You can also add the wire if they are completely flat; great for the tween who always forgets to charge!
• Easy to control calls, play music, and adjust the volume
• Noise isolation removes background noise for a completely undisturbed experience
• Collapsible with a travel bag

Best Value Headphones: PowerLocus Bluetooth Wired/Wireless Foldable Headphones

When it comes to a sleek, compact set of over-ear headphones your tween can take everywhere, these wireless headphones from PowerLocus are a real winner with tweens. Making into our list of top picks for tweens due to the very reasonable price point (under $30), we love the vast range of colors in their range to suit your tween’s style.

They do not compromise too much on features with a built-in mic for communications and are compatible with phones, tablets, and PCs, delivering great sound quality suitable for a tween.

We love it because:

• 15 hours of playtime
• CVC 6.0 dual microphone noise reduction echo cancellation
• Bluetooth 5.0 with a radio-frequency level of 10 meters without obstacles
• Available as both wired and wireless for more flexibility
• Compatible with FM radio and Micro SD/TF

See full product specs for the PowerLocus headphones on Amazon

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Runner Up On-Ear: JLab Neon Bluetooth Folding Headphones

If you are looking for a great, affordable set of headphones for your tween that will allow them the choice between wired and wireless, then you can’t go wrong with these JLab On-Ear headphones.

With the foldable design and comfortable earpads that can rotate 80 degrees for compact storage, they’re a great value alternative to the more expensive brands.

We love it because:

• 13 hours of playtime on Bluetooth with a range of 9 meters
• Available in several great colors to suit your tween’s style
• Adjustable headband with rotatable ear cups for storage
• Offers a mic and 3C Sound technology

Runner Up Over-Ear: TUINYO Wireless Bluetooth Headphones

When color and style matter without compromising on your sound, TINYO Wireless headphones can be a great choice for a tween boy or girl. These over-ear wireless headphones are perfect for gamers and music lovers and have a mic and strong stereo sound quality.

More compact than most, they come with a great hard case to protect your tween’s headphones when not in use.

We love it because:

• Great range of colors with a stylish, shiny finish
• 25 hours of playback time
• 2.5 hours of fast charging
• Padded headband and soft foam ear cups for comfort
• Both wireless and wired options are available
• Slot for TF/Micro SD card for a playlist on the headphone

A Great Wired Headphone Choice: AILIHEN C8 Wired Headphones

If you’re not fussed by needing a wireless product, then the on-ear Ailihen C8 Wired Headphones are an excellent choice for a tween. An attractive headset with great noise isolation is the perfect step up from kiddy headphones for tweens who need to wear them for extended periods, such as homeschooling or distance learning.

Note whilst the headphones themselves are great value, if you want to travel with them, it’s worth spending that little extra for the hard storage case (not included).

We love it because:

• Wide range of colors suitable for boys and girls
• Durable 47″ braided cord
• 3.5 mm jack for wide compatibility with all types of devices
• Collapsible headphones with flexible hinges for better portability
• Mic and remote control for hands-free calls, as well as gaming as music

Best In-Ear Headphones for Tweens

Next up, we’ll look at wireless and wired bud (in-ear headphones) for your tween. Wireless in this category tend to cost significantly more than simple wireless buds.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro

There’s not much that can top the stylish look and superior sound quality your tween will get from Samsung’s Galaxy Buds. You don’t need a Samsung device to pair these buds, just a Bluetooth connection that works with any Android or iOS device.

We love it because:

• Superior AKG sound
• Active noise cancellation
• Stand-alone use of up to 5 hours of playtime
• Delivers a further 13 hours of playback time when using the wireless case to recharge
• Three microphone for crystal clear voice calls

Apple AirPods 4

Any tween who got their hands on an Apple device is no doubt keen to pair them with the latest AirPods too. The price point can put many parents off making the investment for their tween, but they will undoubtedly deliver brilliant sound quality, and you know you’ll have no issues with compatibility.

In comparison to previous models, each new “generation” of AirPods delivers small technical improvements in sound quality and battery life. We wish Apple would release more color choices, but it appears that white is their thing, and they are sticking to it!

We love it because:

• Up to 5 hours of listening time with one charge
• Up to 30 hours total listening time with the case

Best Value Tween Earbuds: TOZO T10 Bluetooth 5.0 Wireless Earbuds 

If you are searching out the best wireless earbuds for tweens that won’t leave you gasping at the price, why not look into Tozo T10? Available in a good selection of stylish metallic finish colors, these wireless earbuds are waterproof and sweatproof, delivering excellent sound quality.

We love it because:

• Comes in several stylish unisex metallic finishes
• The earbuds and the case are IP-X8 waterproof rating – great if your tween is exercising in the wet or left their bag out in the rain, it happens.
• 1.5-hour fast-charging via USB-C cable
• Easy Bluetooth 5.0 pairing with any device
• Playtime over 6 hours from a single charge or get a total of 30 hours with the charging case
• NB note you will need a wireless charger – sold separately  

Best Wired Earbuds: 1MORE In-Ear Earphones Hi-Res Headphones

Too often, you’ll find cheap wired headphones that can’t deliver on the sound quality vs their over-ear or on-ear counterparts. 1MORE has created a tween-friendly product – designed by sound engineers – that delivers excellent sound quality with noise-canceling technology and is super comfortable to wear.

Unlike most in-ear products with a “one size fits all” approach, 1MORE gives the wearer a choice of 9 different ear tips.

We love it because:

• Oblique angled ear fittings naturally match your ear canals
• Choice of 6 silicone and 3 foam ear tips for the most comfortable fit
• Stylish magnetic clasping case for travel
• Generous 4′ cord
• Superior mems microphone eliminates cross-talk and background static
• Beautiful presentation box, ideal for gifting

Also Consider: Sony Deep Bass Earbud Headphones

If your tween is serious about their sound, but you need to compromise on size, something small and lightweight, then investing in a set of Sony Deep Bass earbud headphones is a great choice at a surprisingly affordable price point.

We love it because:

• Integrated microphone and smart device playback control
• Hybrid silicone earbuds for a comfortable fit
• 9mm neodymium drivers deliver powerful deep bass
• Tangle-free flat cord

Budget Earbuds: Easy KZ Yinyoo ZST

For sleek and stylish earbuds for your tween at an affordable price point, try Easy KZ. Not only do they look super-cool for your tween to wear, but the patent technology silicon tips also deliver comfortable wear for extended periods.

If it’s sound quality your tween is after, they won’t be disappointed either; these IEMs (in-ear monitors) have a sturdy reputation as being a great bass-forward model. You can choose models with and without a mic.

We love it because:

• Comes with a stylish silver plate of gold plate cord 1.2m
• Choice of three earbud tips
• Superior sound technology in a sleek little unit

Best Gaming Headphones For Tweens

The next few we’ve selected are perfect for kids who attend online classes or are getting into gaming and want a built-in mic feature with their headphones.

Best Wired Tween Gaming Headphone: JBL Quantum 100 – Wired Over-Ear Gaming Headphones

These sleek, over-ear Quantum 100 headphones from JBL are an excellent choice for your tween gamer. They incorporate a detachable boom microphone with echo-canceling technology for clear communication. The memory foam cushioned headset is covered in soft PU leather for a comfortable over-ear fit.

There are more advanced JBL gaming headsets, but we love that the Quantum 100 is lightweight and more appropriately fitted to a child’s head. We recommend you stick with the Quantum 100 when buying tween or younger teen headphones for gaming.

We love it because:

• Compatible via a 3.5mm jack with PC, Consoles, Mobile, Mac, and VR. 
• Wired connection for superior sound quality
• Comes in white, blue, and black

Best Wireless Tween Gaming Headphones: JLab JBuddies Play Gaming Wireless Kids HeadsetTitle

JLab JBuddies are ideal for your older kids. Built with the tween age group in mind, they will fit from approximately age 6+ and have some serious game time before they need recharging.

The boom mic can be retracted out of the way so they can be used as normal headphones, too.

We love it because:

• 22 hours of charge time
• Compatible with PS4, Xbox, Switch, or PC using the 3.5mm cable with zero latency
• Retractable boom microphone with quick mute 
• Built in volume regulators to ensure your child’s ears are protected, your child cannot listen past 85db
• Lightweight, just 150gms

Also Consider: Razer Kraken X Ultralight Gaming Headset

A brand we hadn’t heard of until my son was gifted a pair, the Razer Kraken X Ultralight gaming set has turned out to be a real gem at a really good price point.

They are comfortable to wear and deliver everything your new tween gamer needs in a sleek, lightweight unit.

We love it because:

• Soft, thick headband provides wearer comfort and is adjustable for their growing head
• Bendable cardioid microphone
• 40m drivers deliver great sound quality

Final Thoughts on Choosing Tween Headphones

As you can see, the choices are huge, and the options constantly change as tech improves.

When it comes to choosing tween tech products, as much as we like surprises, do consult! You will need to consider with your tween:

• Will the headphones be needed for school use, too? Therefore, you will want them to have some protective casing and not so expensive it will be the end of the world if they’re lost or stolen.
• How long will they wear them? Of course, will the headphones be comfortable for prolonged use with your carefully set tech time limits in place? Many tweens find buds uncomfortable at first after using over-ear headphones.
• Do they fit snuggly on their head, or do you want a room to grow still, lasting them into their teen years?
• If you’re considering wireless, when will they have access to charging points?
• At the end of the day, the “best” products cost a lot. Do they need superior bass and other features if all they’re doing is listening to their teacher? Is it a special gift you want to last for years like a graduation gift, or just quick and practical for them to put on some tunes while they’re playing in their room without disturbing the whole household?

Good luck with that buying decision. We hope you find the ideal pair of headphones for your tween.

The post 15 Best Headphones + Earbuds For Tweens (9-12 Year Olds) appeared first on Tween Parent | Family Lifestyle Blog.

Smartphones and other electronic devices have been incredibly helpful, especially for activities like arranging pick-ups and keeping track of our tweens. However, it’s important to recognize when our relationship with these devices becomes unhealthy.

Excessive phone use can cause a number of health issues, from muscle and posture issues, eye strain and headaches to obesity; your child’s device usage needs to be addressed before it gets out of hand.

What happens when we start to see signs of addiction in our tweens? What steps can you take as a parent to ensure smartphones and electronic devices are being used for their correct purpose rather than becoming your child’s lifeline?

Here we’re going to look at 5 key tips for keeping your child’s relationship with their phone healthy.

5 Steps to a healthy relationship for tween phone use

1. Set Phone Restrictions

One of the best ways to deal with excessive phone use is to simply restrict it.

This will undoubtedly cause a battle, to begin with, but like overcoming any addiction, there will be discomfort before results. You may want to start with a gradual approach if going “cold turkey” will be too uncomfortable for your family or simply impractical.

You could start with a gradual restriction of use. For example, ensure mealtimes are cellphone free for everyone. As everyone gets used to this, extend this to time-limited starts in the morning and a cutoff point in the evening.

An overnight cut-off point to ensure they get a good night’s sleep is a non-negotiable.

There are many good parenting control apps you could use to set these time limits, such as Family Link if you’re using an Android device that connects with your Google account, or there are Screen Time settings built-in on iOS to manage your child’s device.  

2. Set Aside Phone-Free Days

Once your tween starts getting used to restricting their phone use, you can introduce phone-free days. Typically, these should be family days where the focus is on spending time together, so there is a distraction in place, and you’re ‘in it together”.

These don’t necessarily need to be a full 24 hours, but long enough, they get a significant screen break and enjoy an activity outside the home. Maybe you can set a rule on how long they have to check their phone when they get back home, but whilst you’re on your family day out, nobody checks their device. You might be surprised just how much this benefits you too!

3. Let Them Use Just One Device at a Time

How many times do you catch your tween using more than one screen? One eye glued to their phone while the TV blares away, or YouTube playing on their laptop while browsing through TikTok?

One screen is bad enough, but when they are using multiple screens at the same time, it’s not only excessive but unhealthy.

So, if they are doing homework on their laptop, don’t allow them to check their phone. Similarly, their phone should be tucked away on the charger or in another room if they want to watch a movie.

4. Keep Phones Out of Bedrooms

I am sure it’s not just the kids who are guilty of this! Do you charge your smartphone next to your bed and use it as your alarm clock?

It’s no surprise our tweens may develop this habit too, checking their phone first before having any human interaction with family.

Set up a charging station in your house where all devices are kept overnight. No one should be touching these then until morning greetings have been made and tasks completed, such as getting dressed or having school bags packed.

Find it on Amazon

Find it on Amazon

Find it on Amazon

5. Limit Their Access to Social Media

Whilst this could also lead to many battles and comparison warfare, the reality is most social platforms are not intended for the pre-teen age group. Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok all have an age limit set of 13 or 13 plus.

That said, I’m sure any tween brought up in the current generation knows how to download and access these. When setting up a new device for a tween, it’s essential to set the ground rules on what apps they’ll be allowed to access and when.

If you are making a conscious decision as a parent to allow them to bypass age rules on these platforms and have it on their device, usage needs to be closely monitored or completely restricted.

You can set restrictions on the phone so that certain apps can only be used during specific times of the day, for example.

Getting your tweens to spend less time on their phone and electronic devices these days isn’t easy. However, it is necessary if you want to promote healthy development and habits that they will see into their teenage years.

• You may also be interested in reading our detailed guide to tweens and technology
• If you’re in the market for tween tech, these are our top picks for gifts in 2023

The post 5 Tips for Dealing With Your Tweens Excessive Phone Use appeared first on Tween Parent | Family Lifestyle Blog.

Nightlights aren’t just for small children, tweens and teens can find them useful too. Plus, when it comes to decorating your room as a tween, having a cool nightlight that lights up the room can be a great addition to bedroom décor and give a really fun effect.

These days, you can get just about any kind of cute, crazy, and creative nightlight you can think. The 3D nightlights are one of the most popular nightlights today. Mostly because they offer such fun designs, and they are 3D making them look really cool.

These fun nightlights for tweens are a selection of fun and creative lights we think they’ll love.

You may also be interested in

Best Nightlights for Tweens

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Associates Program and other affiliate programs that earn us a commission if a qualifying purchase is made.

3D Butterfly Crystal Ball Night Light

Crystal ball shape and remote control operated, this cute butterfly design will go perfect for your tween daughter’s room. It changes up to 16 colors and we surely think it’s a keeper!

Find it on Amazon

Rainbow Table Light

Great for any room, this nightlight can sit on the table and be turned on when needed. The light features all the colors of the rainbow and is battery-operated.

Find it on Amazon

Among Us Light

For tweens who love the game Among Us, they will get a kick out of this Among Us-themed nightlight that they can set on their bedside table.

Find it on Amazon

Neon Sign Wall Nightlight

A unique night light that goes on the wall, your tween will have fun customizing this light to reflect their style.

They also have the option to connect the light to their phone through Bluetooth so that the lights go with music.

Find it on Amazon

Shark Nightlight

There is just something about sharks that we love. They’re intriguing and mystical.

This novelty night light is a pretty interesting image of a shark that’s diving deep into the water and something tweens who love the creatures will enjoy.

Find it on Amazon

Eyesound Nightlight Bluetooth Speaker

This nightlight doubles as a Bluetooth speaker and has 7 different LED colors.

Your tween can place it on the bedside table and enjoy some relaxing music as they fall asleep to one of the many colored glows.

Find it on Amazon

Sky Lite Projector

Imagine sleeping in a sky full of drifting green stars around the nebula cloud. That’s what this nightlight projector aims for.

They will be able to cycle through the different light effects, adjust the brightness, and start or stop the rotation motion.

Find it on Amazon

3D Basketball Nightlight

For sports fans, there is nothing cooler than having the glow of a basketball light up their room throughout the night.

The illusion effect is pretty cool, and we think it is something your basketball-loving tween will like.

Find it on Amazon

5 in 1 Nightlight

Decked out with everything your tween will need, this isn’t just a normal nightlight.

The lamp can be used as an alarm clock, Bluetooth speaker, clock, and more. It also has a pretty cool light effect that we think they will love.

Find it on Amazon

Puzzle Night Light

What a fun design! This nightlight takes the shape of a Tetris puzzle, and the piece interlocks, allowing them to arrange and rearrange the lamp.

Find it on Amazon

Moon Lamp

Whether your tween enjoys studying the stars or wants a super cool galaxy lamp, this moon lamp is perfect for use as a tween nightlight.

The remote that comes with it will allow them to change the colors whenever they want.

Find it on Amazon

Clamshell Nightlight

Set up on the bedside table, and you have a decent, cool nightlight for your tween.

The glowing clamshell will be a fun addition to any room, and you can get it in various colors to match their style or décor.

Find it on Amazon

Minecraft TNT Block Night Light

Minecraft fans and players will love everything about this night light!

Resembling the look of the TNT block from the game, this nightlight will be a fun addition to your Minecraft-loving tweens room.

Find it on Amazon

Speaker Nightlight

A nightlight, alarm, speaker, and clock all wrapped into one!

When lit up, they can easily change the colors and set the dimness for the night light.

Find it on Amazon

Saturn Lamp

Shaped like Saturn, this nightlight is fun and bright.

It’s great for children who have an interest in space or the galaxy but doesn’t have anything fancy to it.

Find it on Amazon

Pokémon 3D Nightlight

3D Butterfly Nightlight

Fun for a girl’s room, this 3D butterfly nightlight is remote-controlled so that she can change the colors.

There are 16 different colors to choose from, and the butterfly has some fantastic detail to it.

Find it on Amazon

Star Projection Nightlight

This nightlight is also a white noise maker so that the kids can easily fall asleep.

It also had Bluetooth, so it can be hooked up to music. A remote is included so that they can control different settings.

Find it on Amazon

3D Jellyfish Nightlight

Shaped and made to look like a jellyfish, this acrylic LED night light is powered by USB and is a smart touch lamp.

Not only will this look super cool in their room, but they will have 7 different light colors to choose from.

Find it on Amazon

Color Changing Mushroom Light 

Skip the babyish hall lights; these cool mushrooms are the perfect way to light up the path to the bathroom or staircase in the dark for your tween.

Find it on Amazon

Mr. Go Dimmable Nightlight

A popular nightlight for both kids and teens, this square Mr. Go nightlight will look great in your tween’s room.

It is shaped like a cube, has different dimming levels, and 4 fun lighting effects that are controlled by a remote.

Find it on Amazon

Floating Globe with Colored LED Lights

This is one seriously cool LED light for your tween’s bedroom. Watch the world rotate 360 degrees with an electromagnetic sensor giving the appearance of floating in mid-air.

The C-shaped frame contains 9 LED bead lamps, so it looks equally impressive in the dark as it does during the day. Available with blue, gold, or black globes.

Find it on Amazon

Your tween may not want to willingly admit they’re still a little scared of the dark, but there will be nothing to cover up with a sensational and modern night light giving them a gentle glow to get to sleep.

Found this Tween Gift Guide helpful?

Dive into our full collection of tween gift guides, including:

• Best gifts for a tween that loves art
• Brilliant family board games for tweens
• Stocking stuffer gift ideas for tweens
• Advent calendar ideas for tweens

The post Coolest Night Lights For Tweens – Helping Your 9 To 12-Year-Old Sleep appeared first on Tween Parent | Family Lifestyle Blog.

Cameras have become exponentially better while also becoming quite affordable. And if you have ever wondered how your tween sees the world, then a camera designed for that age will help you get a glimpse of their perspective.

Your tween will love to take their photos and videos with an action-quality camera compared to a regular smartphone. Why not allow them to snap away as they develop their creativity and photography skills?

Difference Between Action Cameras, Compact Point and Shoot, Mirrorless and DSLR Cameras

Confusing, right? Allow us to break it down and narrow your search for the best camera for tweens.

An action camera is a much more compact, rugged, and waterproof digital camera capable of recording 4K videos in top-notch quality without any hassle. It is an easy-to-mount camera that takes high-quality videos and photos from your dashboard to underwater. It is designed for recording actions while being immersed in it.

A compact point-and-shoot camera is a pocket-sized autofocus camera designed for simplicity. It has a focus and exposure that is entirely automatic. You need to aim the camera and press the button; it will do the rest.

Mirrorless cameras work without a reflex mirror. This digital camera allows you to adjust settings and shoot manually. It is a relatively lightweight camera 9compared to a full DSLR) that has a fast shutter speed and a packed full of functionality.

What is the full meaning of a DSLR camera? A DSLR camera is short for a digital single-lens digital camera. This camera uses a mirror placed behind the lens to show you the true image you will see in the photo. What you see is what you get. It allows interchangeable lenses and is typically larger and more robust than other camera types.

Gifting your tween the perfect digital camera will not only allow them to learn how to take a good photograph. It will also help them exercise their creative muscle and encourage exploration, thus building visual and critical thinking skills later in life.

What to Look for When Choosing a Great Digital Camera for Your Tween

Before you start off your tween on their creative journey, there are some things that you should consider.

Note that your tween will prefer different gadgets at different ages, and some may be more into shooting video and action than stunning landscapes and portrait photography. When doing your research, keep your tween’s shooting needs in mind to ensure you get them the best tween camera that they will actually use.

Size and Memory

Can your tween independently carry their cam during all their adventures and not find it a piece of baggage? How many photos can it take? Does it come with any built-in memory or will you forever be purchasing more memory cards?

Share-ability

Can the camera share pics through email or social media? The trend is for your tween to show off all his/her fun moments with their friends as instantly as it happens. Getting a wireless camera will ease the transition between devices.

Age-appropriate/ Ease of use

Is the camera age-appropriate and user-friendly? Is your tween patient enough to learn the functions of the camera and shoot manually, or should you get a simple one that allows them to always shoot in auto?

Battery Life

You wouldn’t want your tween to miss out on snapping away all the memories of their adventure because their camera is out of power. So are the batteries of the camera rechargeable, or does your tween need to carry spares?

Breakability

You will agree that tweens are still a bit clumsy. Then again, accidents do happen. Ensure the camera gift you are getting your tween has a protective case for transporting. Carry straps are also handy.

Waterproof

If you want your tween to be able to use their digital camera for all occasions, it really helps to find something that is waterproof – or at the very least, water resistant. It can also feature a wrist strap or a floatation device if they’ll be taking it into the sea or a lake this will come in super handy.

Videography

Do you want your tween’s camera just for still images or is video capability a key criteria? If they are filming, you want to look for the 4K feature for the best resolution, but be mindful that they will then need a camera with a lot of memory and image stabilization to make great videos.

Price

What is your budget, and how much are you willing to spend? Is your tween truly invested in photography? Is it just a fun way to make memories with their friends?

We would suggest unless they have had a lot of experience already using an adults camera, you stick with a relatively inexpensive model until they’re ready to up their skill levels to something like a DSLR and are prepared to take the time to learn the tools and perhaps take a photography course.

8 Best Digital Cameras for Tweens Compared

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Associates Program and other affiliate programs that earn us a commission if a qualifying purchase is made.

Best Compact Digital Camera for Tweens: Nikon Coolpix W150

The Nikon Coolpix W150 is a cool, updated edition of the Coolpix W100. It is a waterproof camera that is easy to use, thanks to its large chunky buttons.

It is shockproof due to its tough design and thus can survive falls from 5.9 feet and go as deep as 33 feet underwater. It also uses icons rather than words, making it a great little starter to pique your tween’s interest.

It includes a memory card wallet, 32GB ultra memory card, a flexible tripod, and more within your start-up set, so no extra purchases are necessary.

We love it because:

• It is water, shock, freeze, and dustproof – idea for the way your tween will likely treat it
• It is simple to operate
• It has an appealing camera body
• It has Bluetooth capabilities, i.e., it allows your tween to transfer images easily to other devices

Limitations:

• It lacks optical stabilization, therefore expect lower image quality than more advanced cameras
• It has a low-quality screen

Best Action Camera for Tweens: GoPro Hero 7 Silver

Are you looking for an inexpensive but highly capable digital camera for kids? Look no further; the Go Pro Hero 7 Silver is a perfect rugged and waterproof action camera. Your tween will love it as it will capture quick videos and photos in crisp details without much effort.

It is an ideal camera for older kids tackling new adventures and outdoor pursuits, as it shoots full HD. There is more to love about it, as your tween can control it by voice when they are out and about. It also allows shooting time-lapse videos that turn longer events into short, sharable moments.

We love it because:

• It is compact enough to fit into your tweens pocket
• Perfect for smooth 4K videos, burst image and self-timer – ideal for filming their moves
• It is inexpensive (compared to the leading GoPro and action cameras – the functionality will more than suffice for your tweens)
• It has tough credentials as it can stand out to the rough and tumble adventure life with kids

Limitations:

• It has no zoom lens
• It has poor battery life, you will most definitely need to buy spares
• Mountings and accessories cost extra, for full benefit you will want to include these items too when gifting to a tween to use as a true action camera

Best Durable Camera for Tweens: Fujifilm FinePix XP140

The Fujifilm Finepix XP140 is the latest model in the XP series of Fuji rugged cameras. It is fully waterproof down to 25 meters, shockproof to 1.8 meters, freezeproof to -10 degrees C and dustproof; this will follow your kids everywhere!

It covers a greater length of focal length with a 16.4-megapixel back-illuminated sensor and features optical stabilization (with great 5X optical zoom) even underwater.

Your outdoorsy tween will love it as it has eye detection AF and a self-timer mode for improved portrait pics. It includes Bluetooth capabilities, and your tween can also remotely control the camera with the Fujifilm camera remote app.

We love it because:

• It has a great 5X optical zoom
• It is well-priced for the number of features packed into a very small camera
• It is a tough camera that can handle whatever is thrown at it

Limitations:

• Although it features 4K at 15fps, many buyers have noted this feature is a bit of a letdown
• Some buyers have also reported it has a dull screen

Best Waterproof Camera for tweens: Olympus Tough TG-6

This ultracompact is perfect for older kids who love travel and landscape photography. It has an eye-catching red finish making it stand out. It can go down a pool of water to 50 feet, can survive drops of seven feet, freezeproof to -10 degrees C, as well as be crashed by anything up to 100 kgs.

It is also anti-fog with excellent macro and microscopes modes, a crisp 4K video for filming adventures with an f/2 lens, and a great zoom range of 25-100 mm. It is also available in a sleek black if your tween prefers the high-tech batman look.

We love it because:

• It has a decent range of accessories
• It features raw format support
• It has a 3” tiltable touchscreen

Limitations:

• It has image smoothing at high ISOs
• Some buyers report it has a fiddly zoom control
• It lacks a lens cover to keep the camera protected

Best Instant Camera for Tweens: Fujifilm Instax Mini 11

Simply can’t wait to see your snaps? The Fuji Instax Mini 11 is a perfect first instant camera that has the appeal of an old polaroid camera and is great for your tween photographer. It does not feature a digital sensor, so your tween has to shoot on self-developing paper with a shutter speed of ½ to 1/250 sec.

It has auto exposure with a variable shutter speed, plus a built-in adjustable lens with a close-up setting, making it ideal for selfies. It includes the Instax Mini 11 camera, film, photo album and case for your tween to start snapping right out of the box.

We love it because:

• It has auto-exposure; thus, fewer wasted snaps
• Comes with an adjustable lens for easy macro shots
• It is comfortable to hold as it has big rounded edges
• Comes in several pastel colors for your tween to express themselves!

Limitations:

• It will start to get pricey paying for the replacement film packs
• Images are quite small – about credit card size so not as large as your old polaroid
• Its exposures can be a little too bright in the sun as the flash automatically fires

Best DSLR for Tweens: Canon EOS Rebel T7

Is your tween really ready to level up their skills? It may be time they invest in a DSLR.

The Canon EOS Rebel is an excellent entry-level DSLR, meaning that what you see in the viewfinder is what you will get in the image. It features an interchangeable lens with the macro lens allowing your tween to take sharp photos of tiny objects as well as landscapes.

The superzoom lenses allow your tween to tackle pics of distant objects. With a modern DIGIC eight CMOS, APS-C sensor of 24.1 MP, a nine-point AF system, five fps continuous shooting, and microphone input for videography.

It also has built-in WI-FI, NFC, Bluetooth, and HDMI connectivity. It also features a classic 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM lens. This bundle comes with a memory card, deluxe padded camera case, flashlight, three pieces filter kit, and more to ensure your tween can also use it for long-distance photo situations like sporting.

We love it because:

• It features an LCD screen with live-view capability
• It has great pre-set modes, which is great for beginners who are still not confident to shoot manually
• It has video recording capabilities too

Limitations:

• It is only ideal for older kids as it is a bit heavy and will take some time to learn
• It has no center contact on the hot shoe

Don’t forget to throw in the great companion product Canon EOS Rebel For Dummies guide to help enhance their digital camera learning experience.

Best Budget Point & Shoot for Tweens: Kodak PIXPRO FZ43 Kit

If these all feel too advanced for your tween needs, let’s head back to basics. The Kodak PIXPRO camera is an easy-to-use point-and-shoot model with some fun features for beginners.

It has a 16.1 MP 4x zoom capability that provides your tween with an opportunity to explore how zoom affects your final image.

With a built-in microphone that makes the audio crisp and clear, the 720 HD video option is a feature your tween will enjoy. It has four photo shooting modes and a video-making mode that uses pre-programmed scene modes. It requires two AA batteries.

We love it because:

• It has easy-to-replace batteries
• It features simple printing options
• It is simple enough to point and shoot and still get great results

Limitations:

• You might need frequent battery changes
• It does not have great image stabilization which can result in blurry photos
• The video quality isn’t as great as an action camera

Best 4K Digital Camera for Vlogging: VETEK 4K Digital Camera

The VETEK 4K Digital Camera is the perfect choice if your pre-teen loves to make their own videos and wants something a little more advanced than a point-and-shoot at a reasonable price.

A 4K small digital camera with 30fps video resolution and 56-megapixel still images, your tween will enjoy the ultimate in smooth filming experiences. It has the best resolution for shooting YouTube-worthy videos.

The camera is equipped with wide angle & macro lenses and supports 16X Digital Zoom, great for filming sports or action from a distance without blur. USB2.0 data cable, 32GB TF card, charger and batteries are included.

We love it because:

• Several appealing colors for tweens to choose from
• Supports tripods and has a hot shoe connection (top mounting)
• Still light and compact vs a full mirrorless or DSLR
• Includes two interchangeable lenses so no need to invest in additional gear upfront

Limitations:

• Not as good for macro (close up) filming
• Need to invest in extra SD cards for better memory

Extra accessories to consider

In addition to the camera itself, there are many photographer accessories you could also include to make a superb bundled gift for a tween with everything they’ll need. Why not also consider

Ready to purchase your tween a digital camera?

Digital cameras can be a whole lot of fun for everyone and more so for your tween who loves to spend time with friends. We all want to ensure that our tweens have a way of remembering all the fun things that they are doing. It would help if you had something that fits their style and needs.

Photography is good for your kids as it encourages creative thinking and problem-solving. It Promotes creativity and self-expression. It also helps manage stress, and visual art activities promote fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

Always take care of your equipment, including preventing it from getting scratches and cleaning it properly. At first, you can use a tripod to take pictures, as it makes it easier to take good pictures. Also, take your camera with you everywhere to not miss out on good shots and great memories.

More Gear Reviews For Your Tweens

If you’ve found this gear guide for tweens useful, you may also want to check out:

• Best headphones for tweens
• Best watches for tweens
• Best fitness trackers for tweens

The post 8 Best Digital Cameras For Tweens in 2026 appeared first on Tween Parent | Family Lifestyle Blog.

Let’s see how to keep your tween on track and whether it will be worth the investment to move your tween from an ordinary watch to a smartwatch now that they’re approaching their teens and high school.

Types of Smart Watches for Tweens

To ensure that you buy the best smartwatch for your tween, you can start by understanding different types of smartwatches. This will help you know which smartwatch might be the right gadget for them. Types of smartwatches for tweens include –

a) Simple Smartwatches:

Basic smartwatches are the jack of many trades, if not all. They have a touch screen and options like pedometer, calculator, alarm clock, etc. They may not connect with smartphones via Bluetooth or the net, especially if they are for youngsters. But a cable connection may be possible.

b) Smart Sport Watches

These are advanced variants of fitness trackers – and are light and waterproof. These are advanced watches that track everything from your trajectory to your heartbeat, from activity levels to oxygen levels. They store data that can be accessed using phones and computers.

c) Traditional Bluetooth Smartwatches 

Traditional smartwatches can be connected to your smartphone with the help of Bluetooth connectivity. You will receive notifications for messages, calls, social media platforms, and other apps. They come with a variety of features, and they can be used along with the smartphone.

d) Smartwatches with Phone Functions

These smartwatches have all the features to work independently from a smartphone. That’s because you can add a SIM card to it, and that will allow you to make calls, reply to text messages, use social media platforms, etc., even when your phone is not with you.

e) Hybrid Smartwatches

These watches have the face of a regular watch, but they offer the connectivity and technological advancements of a smartwatch. You can still monitor your health or access your phone using this watch. But the face of this watch is not designed for interactions in all of this.  

Features to Look for in a Quality Tween Smart Watch

Tweens these days are tech-savvy – probably more so than you! As a parent, you might feel a little intimidated while buying a smart gadget for your kids, right? While browsing the market for the best smart watches for tweens, it is a good idea to start by looking for the following features:

1. Battery Life: The primary feature of a smartwatch is how long it lasts. For your active adolescent, they could easily burn through a full overnight charge in day if they are using all of its functionality. Seek out smartwatches that can hold their charge for days.
2. Fitness Tracking: Most smartwatches have some form of a fitness tracker, starting with a basic pedometer to monitoring and recording your heartbeat, sleep pattern or pre-programmed exercises. if your tween predominantly wants a smartwatch for sports and fitness, consider whether a smartwatch is the right option or a fitness tracker.
3. Smart Features: You’ll get various smart features, like daily utility applications, along with call and app notifications, but does a tween’s watch really need to be THAT smart; work out what smart features matter most.
4. Phone Features: Some advanced smartphones for tweens come with the options to answer calls, respond to messages, and more, giving the user freedom from phone use; alternatively you may prefer a smartwatch for your tween that doesn’t require a smartphone alongside it to work.
5. Sizing: Tweens will invariably have much smaller wrists than your teens and adults so check that the smartwatch will not be too large and loose on their wrist.
6. Replaceable Straps: Not just for fashion, we all know how hard-going kids can be on their kit, and a watch is no exception even with great care taken the straps can wear. Brands that come with a replaceable strap option can be advantageous.

Our Favorite Smartwatches for Tweens

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Associates Program and other affiliate programs that earn us a commission if a qualifying purchase is made.

Now you know of the various types of smartwatches for tweens and the features to look for. It’s time to check out the reviews of our favorite smartwatches for tweens currently available on the market.

Fitbit Versa 2 Smartwatch

The Fitbit Versa 2 Smartwatch is one of the best smart watches for tweens who want to take the technologically advanced route to good health. The first name that crosses our mind while thinking of fitness trackers is that of Fitbit. It’s designed to track heartbeats all the time, from swimming to sleeping.

We love it because

• It offers incredible battery life, working 24/7 for 6 days.
• It’s equipped with Alexa for quick access to all kinds of information.
• It’s available in a wide range of stunning colors for boys and girls.

Key Features:

• Perfect for workouts, with easy access to playlists.
• Tracks your heartrate – all day and all night.
• Allows you to control apps, messages, and calls on the phone.
• Water resistant to 50m

Possible Cons:

• Quick reply and voice reply options only for Android 
• On the pricier side for a tween

SAMSUNG Galaxy Active 2 Watch

If there’s one thing you cannot go wrong with when it comes to your pre-teen, it’s a Samsung Galaxy smartwatch. The Active 2 watch comes with advanced options for monitoring health and fitness. It’s designed to match with all kinds of outfits. It’s the best smartwatch for tweens who like to wear sophisticated accessories with an “adult” touch.

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We love it because:

• It has a sleek and light design that looks good all the time.
• Comes in a 40mm model suitable for smaller wrists.
• It comes with a variety of faces and bands for a new look every day.
• It can go on for more than a day without charging.

Key Features:

• Samsung’s OS that makes it widely compatible
• LTE connectivity to give you freedom from your phone
• Advanced features to monitor health   

Possible Cons:

• Gaps during sleep monitoring reported by some users
• Cost compared to other brands

Blackview Smart Watch

A wonderfully simple and affordable option for those looking for a greater starter smartwatch for their tween. All the functionality you’d expect in an adults smartwatch

We love it because:

• 4 different stylish display modes.
• Great battery life.
• It will not burn a hole in the pockets.

Key Features:

• Built in fitness tracker with 9 exercise modes
• IP68 Waterproof rating – water resistant to 50m
• 2.5 hours of charging will last 10 days of use or 30-45 days on standby
• Supports iOS 9.0 and Android 5.0 and above

Possible Cons:

• Some users have reported the plastic wrist band cracking over time.

L.O.L. Surprise! Touch-Screen Smartwatch

If your little girl has just stepped into her pre-teen years, she will love the blast of pink and animation in the Touch-Screen Smartwatch by L.O.L. Surprise! It’s ideal as the first smartwatch for tweens learning the nuances of a smart fitness tracker. It offers fun and useful features, too.

We love it because:

• It has the perfect color and animation for a younger girl.
• It lasts all day and night after charging once.
• It offers the perfect combination of entertaining and practical features.

Key Features:

• Selfie-camera, voice and video recording – with easy download and sharing.
• Comes with useful options like calculator, stopwatch, and alarm clock.
• Touchscreen smartwatch with pedometer

Possible Cons:

• No option for phone connectivity or advanced fitness tracking.
• Your tween could outgrow the novelty theme quite quickly.

Marvel SPD4588AZ Spider-Man Touchscreen Smart Watch

Has your little boy just turning into a tween? Is he still in love with all the fun, action, and vibrancy of the superhero world? It’s time to gift him the Marvel Spider-Man Smart Watch. This attractive smartwatch is the perfect watch for a growing pre-teen who’s still too young for an expensive and advanced smart device.   

We love it because:

• Its Spider-Man design in a vibrant color is perfect for young tweenage boys.
• It can continue functioning round the clock for a day without charging.
• It is loaded with entertaining and practical features.

Key Features:

• Touchscreen phone with alarm clock, timer, and calculator for everyday usage
• Pedometer to get your young boy started on the journey of fitness tracking
• Easy to access games, share photos, and use in-built selfie-camera

Possible Cons:

• Basic fitness tracking with no option to connect with phones

AGPTEK IP68 Smartwatch

The AGPTEK IP68 Smartwatch allows your tween kid to access apps, music, messages, etc., remotely, even without a phone nearby. It’s a brilliant combination of style and functionality, without much of a pocket pinch. It’s a sturdy health-tracking smartwatch – perfect for a tween on a fitness journey and looking to add some style. 

We love it because:

• It’s available in three stunning colors with five dials, with 30 more in-app dials.
• It is light, sturdy, and scratch-proof – perfect for all occasions.
• It lasts for 7-10 days after two hours of charging – with an incredible 30 days of standby time.

Key Features:

• Easy to access apps using this smartwatch for tweens without a phone.
• High accuracy in heartbeat sensing, thanks to the HR sensor.
• Easy to view health reports on the Fitcloudpro app.
• IP68 Waterproof.

Possible Cons:

• Calling and replying options not available. 

Amazqi Smartwatch Phone

Planning to buy your pre-teen their first ever smartwatch? It’s best to choose a pocket-friendly and user-friendly option, like the Amazqi Smartwatch Phone. It is easy to sync this watch with smartphones and allows access to phone apps and functions, including answering and making calls, responding to messages.

We love it because:

• It’s a standalone watch that offers access to phone apps, social media, etc.
• You can choose from four stunning colors for both boys and girls.
• It can be the perfect fitness buddy, with easy song access and storage. 

Key Features:

• SIM card mode available for calls, messages, apps, and connectivity if required.
• 0.3 MP camera and shutter mode to access phone camera.
• Ideal fitness tracker with pedometer and sleep monitor.
• Average standby time is 24 to 48 hours.

Possible Cons:

• Functionalities available only partially when synced with iPhone (fully compatible with Android devices) 

Donerton Smart Watch and Fitness Tracker

A smartwatch and fitness tracker with a sleek and stylish look, the Donerton Smart Watch is ideal for tweens who love accessories that look mature. The watch will track your kid’s activities and help them monitor their progress. Your pre-teen kid will enjoy using it as they can easily check incoming calls and social media on the watch while looking sleek and stylish.

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No products found.

We love it because:

• Its battery can endure 7 days of regular activities and 30 hours of standby time.
• It allows quick access to social media, call, and text notifications.
• It comes in four striking colors – and offers four stunning clock faces.

Key Features:

• Supports 8 sports modes to record all-day activities.
• Large touchscreen for easy use of everyday tools.
• Easy control over phone camera by shaking the wrist.
• IP67 Waterproof

Possible cons:

• Over-sensitivity of step counter and sleep monitor reported by some users.
• The larger 1.4″ sized screen may make it two big for a smaller tweens wrist.

Efolen Smart Watch for Women 

One of the most stylish smartwatches for a tween girl at a really reasonable price. This slim design smartwatch still delivers on fitness features while giving your tween girl a look she can be proud of. The watch comes with several different color straps and designs.

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We love it because:

• Unique and elegant design that doesn’t scream sports watch.
• Includes 8 fitness modes and physiological tracking for young ladies.
• Customizable face watches to suit your tweens personality.

Key Features:

• 1.09″ wide screen, great for smaller wrists.
• Compatible with advanced Android and iOS phones.
• Incoming call notifications, sedentary and drink water reminders.
• IP67 Waterproof.
• 2 hours of charge lasts 5 to 7 days and 15 days on standby.

Possible Cons:

• Some users complain the small screen makes text messages hard to read.

More Gear Reviews For Your Tweens

• Your sporty tweens may also be interested in our range of tween fitness trackers. These are specialized watches that not just tell the time but can help them with tracking steps, heart rate, and more.

• Looking for something a little more low-tech that doesn’t need charging and will simply help your tween keep track of time? Try this range of trendy and functional watches for tweens.

• Is your pre-teen showing an interest in photography? Check out this great range of digital cameras for tweens, from simple point and shoots to beginner mirrorless and DLSR cameras.

• Every tween needs a reliable set of headphones. Whether it’s for doing their homework or home learning or for chilling out to their favorite tunes, here are the best headphones and wireless earbuds for tweens.

• We have a complete round up of all our favorite tween tech items for 2026 over here.

Looking for gift ideas for a tween? You may also be interested in

The post 9 Best Smartwatch For Tweens (9 To 12-Year Old Kids) in 2026 appeared first on Tween Parent | Family Lifestyle Blog.

If you are finding that your child can benefit from a watch, whether it be a simple watch or some type of sports watch, these are some good choices.

There is a variety of watches for tweens included in the list. Everything from something super simple with no frills to sports watches and smart watches that have all the times, alarms, and more advanced functions they may need.

You may also be interested in

Best Watches for Tweens

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Associates Program and other affiliate programs that earn us a commission if a qualifying purchase is made.

Digital Sport Watch

A popular watch for tweens, this digital sport watch is an analog quartz watch that also includes an alarm and a stopwatch.

Your sporty tween can use it to keep track of time and it is water and shockproof so they can wear it whether in the pool or at practice.

Find it on Amazon

Color Statement Watch

Colorful and fashionable, this watch is easy to read. Tweens can wear it with them wherever they go because it’s waterproof.

We love that it comes in several bright and unisex colors.

Find it on Amazon

Armitron Sport

A good starter watch for your tween, this sports watch has just a few functions and isn’t as complicated as some of the watches out there.

It is water resistant and has an alarm if they need it.

Find it on Amazon

Timex Ironman Essential

The durable resin strap on this watch will not only help it from coming off their wrist but it’s also comfortable.

The face lights up so that they can easily see the time and the watch includes an alarm and timer. There are several bright strap colors to choose from.

Find it on Amazon

Leather Strap Girls Watch

Teen Sport Watch

For more advanced tweens, it may be time to go up to one of these multifunctional watches. It has a digital display and three alarms and is waterproof.

It’s a great pick for when your tween is ready to get a more advanced watch with a few more bells and whistles.

Find it on Amazon

Casio Digital Watch

Sporty but also stylish, this silicone watch is a digital watch that will be comfortable on their wrists.

It’s great for everyday use and includes a timer and an alarm. It would be a perfect pick for a sporty girl.

Find it on Amazon

Digital Boys Watch

With quite a few functions to this watch, this would be a great digital watch for your tween.

They can easily see the date, time, and day of the week it is on their face. If they need an alarm or a stopwatch, those are also available.

Find it on Amazon

Unisex Sport Watch

This is a great watch for tweens because it’s simple yet has all the functions they need. The front has an LCD display of the time, the day of the week, and the calendar date.

When needed, they can set the alarm or stop the clock. It is available in different colors so you can pick out the one you think they will love the best.

Find it on Amazon

Kids Smart Watch

Another beginner smartwatch for your tween, this waterproof smartwatch also has a GPS tracker and support for calls and video chats.

There is a spot for a SIM card which you can use with many of the larger carrier companies.

Find it on Amazon

CakCity Kids Digital Watch

Sporty Digital Watch

Great for active children, this digital watch has a silicone band for comfort and plenty of functions.

The backlight can be adjusted to different colors depending on which they prefer, and it’s water-resistant, and fashionable.

Find it on Amazon

Mokast Smart Watch

This smartwatch includes an alarm, calculator, calendar, music player, and even games. Your tween can even set the watch for school mode so that they aren’t disturbed throughout the day.

This is a great beginner smartwatch and can grow with them as they get a bit older.

Find it on Amazon

Casio Unisex Neo-Display Watch

This Casio watch is a popular watch among tweens. The resin band makes the watch comfortable and will help keep it from sliding off their wrist.

The face shows the date, time, and day of the week. It’s water resistant up to 100m and the hands do glow in the dark for easy night reading.

Find it on Amazon

Your sporty tweens may also be interested in our range of tween fitness trackers. These are specialized watches that not just tell the time but can help them with tracking steps, heart rate, and more, or pop on over to our guide to tween smartwatches with even more extensive functionality.

Found this Tween Gift Guide helpful?

Dive into our full collection of tween gift guides, including:

• Beautiful baking gifts for tweens who love to bake
• Brilliant family board games for tweens
• Stocking stuffer gift ideas for tweens
• Advent calendar ideas for tweens

The post 16 Wonderful Watches For Tweens in 2026 appeared first on Tween Parent | Family Lifestyle Blog.

With this new generation and most especially the tween age (9-12 years) you have to remind them that it’s daylight so that they can go out (often grudgingly at that). Do we blame technology or the times that we are in (as if there is any difference)?

You will be a lucky parent if your tween is into sports and they are loving them. Then you will be sure they are exercising and keeping healthy. But where do we go? We that our tweens are glued to the screen (be it telly or phone) and only walk when it is very necessary, like rushing to the washroom or the kitchen for a snack.

Exercising is very important for your kid and you as it will help keep fit and healthy. And we have the technology to thank for it has designed fitness trackers or smartwatches that we and our children can use to get engaged and challenge ourselves to get more actively pursuing a healthy life.

Trust me; fitness trackers are the best option that we got to ensure our kiddos get out there and get active. What’s more, they come with a screen, one more thing that will fascinate your tween. So, just tie the two together!

The fitness-related accessories have metrics that can count steps, exercise (create daily movement goals), and even monitor your child’s sleep. Some are even GPS-enabled, meaning you can keep track of your tween while out in the field. How cool can it get?

They generally come in themes that are designed for kids and in fun colors for your tween to choose from. The best part is that most of them have extra games and reward systems to make exercising fun for your tween.

What Is A Fitness Tracker?

A fitness tracker is a wearable device that is meant to gather exercise and activity-related data for the user. Fitness trackers come in various forms, such as; necklaces, wristbands, and clip-on accessories you can put on clothing.

That said, you must ensure you get the best bang for your buck when getting your tween their first fitness tracker.

Features Of A Good Fitness Tracker For Tweens

Selecting the best activity tracker for tweens will solely depend on what you want it to accomplish for your teen and their lifestyle.

1. Water Resistance/Water Proof

A good fitness tracker for your tween will need to be water-resistant. This way, they can wear them all time even when they swim. A jog in the rain will also be in order and they can also help in the house chores like washing the dishes while they have their fitness tracker on.

2. Quality And Durability

A fitness tracker that is durable is one that will serve your teen for a long time. When you buy quality, you are sure to get a durable product.

3. GPS Enabled

A cool Fitbit for tweens will need to be GPS Enabled as this will help you keep track of your child’s walks, runs, or cycles. It will also help you know which activity your child is doing and at what time. This way, you can help your tween to up their game or go slow on a certain activity.

4.  Sleep Tracker

Your tween’s quality of sleep will directly affect their mood and health. Some kids’ fitness trackers will help monitor their sleep duration and quality: this will help schedule their sleep timings, ensuring they get quality sleep as they need it for their development.

5. Call And Text Alerts

It is soo tech-savvy that these fitness watches can be synced with phones. This way, your tween leaving their changing bag that has the phone is not a problem as they will be notified of an incoming call or text.

6. Tracking Calories Burnt

One of the primary reasons we need to get our tweens out there is that they can exercise and in so doing, burn calories that at this stage of growth they love. Getting them a fitness tracker that can take up this task will be a quick and easier way for them to maintain their weight or lose it. Burning calories is beneficial in maintaining vital body functions. 

7.  24/7 Heart Rate Monitor

With this feature up your child’s fitness tracker, it will give clear insights into how their heart is responding to their daily routine and workouts. The higher their heart rates during their workouts, the more calories they are burning, which is good.

8.  Touchscreen Display

This is a feature that is sure to inspire your tweens to take up an active lifestyle. You should pick one that allows your tween to read it and has an auto-adjusting feature helping it to adapt to ambient lighting.

9.  Long Battery Life

This is a very important feature for your tween’s Fitbit. You need one that has a long battery life with a single charge. This will ensure that it operates when your tween is exercising and when they sleep.

10.  Silent Alarm

This feature will sit well with most tweens as they hate being woken up by loud and noisy alarm tones. Get them a kids’ fitness tracker that will wake them with a quiet vibration instead of the buzzy tones.

11. Weather Alerts

Cool feature, right? This will enable your tween to plan well for their afternoon in regard to their routine. They will get to know when the rain will pour to avoid it. Or better still, plan when they will go swimming.

12.  Work Out And Exercise Tracking

A fitness tracker that has a cardio fitness feature will be perfect for your tween. It will help calculate the amount of oxygen used by their bodies as they perform different activities, showing how their lungs, heart, and other organs use oxygen to function.

5 Best Fitness Trackers For Tweens

Do you want to get your kid off the couch and on their feet? We have researched to put together 5 of the best fitness trackers to buy your tween currently on the market.

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Associates Program and other affiliate programs that earn us a commission if a qualifying purchase is made.

1. Fitbit Inspire 2

There are several different Fitbit models, but we think this is the best Fitbit for tweens. This Fitbit tracker is made of a durable elastomer material and fastens with a peg and loop will motivate your tween to do their weekly workout activities thanks to its unique features like active zone minutes, challenges, earning badges, and celebrating goal milestones, thus building healthy habits.

It features a 24/7 heart rate tracker that records calorie burn, resting heart rate, and heart rate zones during workouts. It also has a free one-year premium trial ensuring your tween gets personal guidance, step by step fitness and nutrition programs.

It supports over 15+ exercise modes, tracking activities like steps, distance, hourly activity, and activity minutes, storing your heart rate data at 1-second intervals during exercise and 5 seconds intervals during other activities.

It will also track your tween’s time in light, deep, and REM sleep providing pointers to improve their quality of sleep. It has a 10-day battery life and is compatible with the most popular devices and operating systems.

We love it because:

• 24/7 heart rate monitor
• 10-day battery life
• Waterproof to 50m
• Durable

What could be better in the Fitbit ace 2 activity tracker:

• Some users have reported continual vibrating with wrist movement while not exercising
• On the pricier side compared to other Fitbit models

2. Fitbit Ace 2 Activity Tracker For kids

This Fitbit Ace 2 Activity Tracker is ideal for your younger tween. It brings a fun experience for children motivating them to do physical activities with its unique features. There’s a lot to love with this dedicated tracker that’s durable, waterproof, and comes in fun colors.

It is made up of a tough silicone band that is durable and adjusts on your tween’s wrist, leaving them feeling comfortable. It has reminders for your tween to get moving and has a cool reward system to keep your tween motivated.

Its bedtime reminders, sleep tracking, and silent alarm ensures your kid gets the quality sleep they need. This tracker is also swim-proof, water-resistant, and with 5-day battery life. It also tracks steps and total active minutes, including a 1-hour active minute goal and it syncs all the data collected wirelessly to a phone.

Its app has two views: a parental view and a kids’ view. This means that your child can view their steps, badges, and other basic info, while the parent view allows you to set up more than one child.

We love it because:

• It has swappable bands that are in fun colors
• Durable and waterproof
• Its silicone bands help protect the screen

What could be better in the Fitbit Ace 2 activity tracker:

• It has a short battery life
• It has no games

3. Fitbit Ace 3

The Fitbit Ace 3, as you might imagine, is that little extra step up from the Fitbit Ace 2. It features a swim-proof build, an impressive 8-day battery life, better-than-average parental controls, and a sleep tracker. This tracker counts your child’s steps and sleeping habits and monitors how long they are active.

It’s an easy-to-use tracker, which is comfortable and motivational, making things much more interesting for your tween. It comes set with a 60 minutes activity goal and a 10,000 daily step goal. It is also swim-proof and water-resistant to 50 meters.

Fitbit Ace 3 has an excellent display with an animal-changing clock that displays your tween total steps of the day. It has swappable bands that are small enough to fit even the tiniest of wrists. It’s also compatible with the most popular smartphone devices.

We love it because:

• Swimproof /waterproof
• 8-day battery life
• Almost 30 watch faces to choose from

What could be better:

• A bit on the pricey side when lacking some of the features of the Fitbit Inspire 2

4. Garmin Vivofit Jr. 2

Looking away from the Fitbit brand for your tween? This is the second generation of the Vivofit by Garmin that includes generic color bands that have fun and inspiring designs, making exercise fun.

It’s a waterproof tracker that tracks steps and sleeps quality, recording their active minutes to help them form positive habits. As each fitness goal is attained, your tween can move into a more complicated game on the device, thus keeping them active and engaged.

Through its manual sync, parents are able to connect and monitor their tween’s activity. It also gives you the option to send customized alerts, homework, and chores list to the device and has over a year’s worth of battery life.

We love it because:

• It has games as well as being a fitness tracker
• One year battery life
• Task timer feature
• Fun-themed boys and girls’ designs

5. BiggerFive Fitness Tracker

This is a waterproof tracker that is slim and has a lightweight design that is simple and comes in three mature color schemes. It smartly records the number of calories you burn, the steps your tween takes and the distance covered in a particular day.

It has a 7-day battery life and can be charged by any USB adapter and is compatible with most phones. It links up with veryfitpro app for further tracking and interactivity. It has a sleep-tracking feature and a silent alarm.

What we love:

• Compatible with smartphones
• Convenient sleep tracker
• Less charging, more battery shelf life
• Great price point compared to the bigger known brands

Distinction Between Fitness Tracker and Smart Watch

Is there really a difference? Yes, while the two – a fitness tracker and a smartwatch – tend to overlap, they each have their intended purpose.

The fitness tracker is primarily designed to keep track of your health and exercise. However, some more advanced trackers can also display texts and app notifications on your wrist like a smartwatch, but their intended purpose is to focus on your health and daily activity monitoring. They will generally also have a digital watch function.

A smartwatch not only keeps track of your health and exercise but also keeps you connected by delivering notifications and updates on your wrist. You can find our detailed guide to tween smartwatches over here.

In a quest to find your tweens a fitness watch, I hope you have finally found one in the above compilation. These watches have great features and functions that will help your tween get the best out of their activities.

Looking for more inspiration for your sporty & active tween?

• Also check out our guide to the best gifts for sporty tween girls
• Come over here to find the best gifts for your active and sporty boys

The post Best Fitness Tracker For Tweens (9 To 12-Year-Olds) in 2026 appeared first on Tween Parent | Family Lifestyle Blog.

In recent years, the mobile games market has grown exponentially. Now, major game companies are making games for and porting beloved console games over to mobile platforms.

Gamers can play as fan-favorite characters and embark on new adventures wherever they go. Plus, as the graphical capabilities of mobile phones get better and better, so too does the quality of the games available. 

However, choosing the right game in the sea of possibilities can be tricky. Some games might look fun but be full of ads and in-app purchases. Plus, some games might only be available for iOS and not Android, or vice versa.

That does not mean that finding fun and age-appropriate games is impossible, though. There are loads of great games available; you need only look.

Following is a list of fun games that are perfect for your tween – that’s your 9 to 12-year-old age group. These games guarantee tons of fun for a low price, or even free!

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Before we dive into the detail, let’s look at how gaming apps for a mobile device such as smartphones or tablets actually work.

Paid and Free Games vs. In-App Purchases

In-app purchases have become a staple of the mobile industry. Rather than paying for a game upfront, companies will release games for free and offer exclusive in-game content for which players can pay real money. 

These purchases can range from a few dollars to major money, so if you are at all concerned about your tween spending money you can always turn off in-app purchases through your mobile device’s settings. (Apple | Android)

Unfortunately, in-app purchases cannot really be avoided. For this reason, we have compiled a list of games that do not require you to pay money to progress. However, most of the games will still have some content available for purchase if players so desire.

It’s essential that you chat with your tween before installing games how these “freemium” games work, as your app store or Apple account are no doubt attached to your credit card!

Online Interactions

Many mobile games feature some sort of multiplayer aspect. As such, many mobile games feature voice or text chat capabilities. These are often unmonitored and, minus a safety filter, let people say whatever they want.

These chat functions can typically be disabled, but as a parent, be warned that some games will allow your tween to interact with others using these platforms. If this is something you are concerned about, we recommend checking your mobile device settings or the game settings to see if they can be turned off.

Best App-Based Games For Tweens

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Associates Program and other affiliate programs that earn us a commission if a qualifying purchase is made.

So on to the good stuff, our “tween approved” app-based games selection for downloading right away:

Mario Kart Tour (iOS & Android)

Mario Kart Tour lets players race against friends, online or against bots, all from their smartphone. Gamers will love the fast-paced and competitive racing action that the series has to offer. 

Featuring beloved Super Mario characters, tweens are sure to have a blast playing this game. There are in-app purchases, but the game is free to download and play without them.

Apple rates this game age 4+, Google Play rates this game for everyone

Stardew Valley (iOS & Android)

This means making repairs, growing crops, raising livestock, and interacting with the other villagers in the valley. Since its original release, Stardew Valley has become a beloved franchise due to its charming visuals and repeatable gameplay.

Now, players can take the whole valley with them wherever they go with the mobile ports of Stardew Valley. The game is easy to pick up and play but complex enough to keep you coming back! A paid app well worth the investment for the hours of interactive gameplay (free with Google Play Pass).

Apple rates this game age 12+ , Google Play age 10+

Clash of Clans (iOS & Android)

Gameplay is online against a random opponent (with no chat function). The players’ objective is to collect gold and elixir without someone attacking their village. The more gold you get, the more defences you can put in place and use your elixir to build your army.

The more gameplay, the larger your village grows and the larger your army. There are in-app opportunities to purchase gems if you want to level up your village quicker. Tweens love it because it is action packed and they love unlocking new rewards and seeing their village grow.

Apple rates this game age 9+, Google Play rates it age 10+

Brawl Stars (iOS & Android)

You can join clubs with your friends or play against random opponents (the chat function is disabled for those registered as under 18’s or can be muted). Tweens love that there are plenty of things to unlock, including new skins, weapons and new brawlers. Tokens are accumulated by both time and winning trophies, along with completing daily and seasonal quests.

Action-packed fun with great graphics (no gory violence); a simple concept but lots of things to explore and achievements to reach. Supercell keeps it fun and engaging for the tween group, frequently releasing new characters and skins.

Apple rates this game age 9+, Google Play rates it age 10+

Clash Royale (iOS & Android)

You battle against an opponent (either friends or a random online player) to obtain more crowns than your enemy, and the first to three crowns wins the battle. There are player tutorials for those new to the game so you can understand arenas, playing cards and how to attack and destroy.

There’s no gory violence, but your tweens will need a little practice to win battles. It is quite a tactical game, so may take some time to master, and unlocking new characters and weapons seems fairly necessary – though this can be done without in-app purchases, just be aware the temptation is there!

Apple rates this game age 9+, Google Play rates it age 10+

Fortnite (Android)

As such, it is no surprise that the game quickly got a mobile release. Now, players can buddy up or duke it out on their own wherever they go. Fortnite mobile allows players to take all of the action of Fortnite with them in their pocket.

With so many modes, challenges, and items to acquire, this game is sure to have you coming back! Plus, there are tons of seasonal events so there is almost always something new for you to do. 

Fortnite has all of the competitive multiplayer action you could want on your mobile device.  As a bonus, players using the mobile app can also play with other players using a video game system, so tweens can play with their friends no matter their platform.

Recommended for older tweens approaching teens due to mild violence.

NB – There’s a bit of a dispute between the creators Epic Games and Apple/Google Play so currently, you cannot get it on iOS, and if you want it on Android, there are a few work arounds discussed in detail here.

Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp (iOS & Android)

Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp gives players more Animal Crossing content as they create and explore their campsite. Gamers can complete tasks, interact with other animals, and even play with other gamers.

Many classic characters are back and ready to help players as they upgrade their camp and interact with friends and other gamers around the world. 

Plus, this game is a great alternative to those who don’t have access to the Nintendo Switch version of Animal Crossing or who want a different take on the classic franchise.

Apple & Google Play both rate this game for everyone

Raid: Shadow Legends (iOS & Android)

Raid: Shadow Legends features awesome PVE (person versus environment) and PVP (person versus person) action accompanied by great graphics, especially for a game of this scale on mobile devices. Players will embark on an epic adventure as they defeat enemies and upgrade their loot and characters.

The game is free to play and easy to pick up and run with. Plus, tons of creators offer special sign-up bonuses to get free loot and in-game currency, so be sure to check those out.

Recommended for your older tweens due to mild violence.

Monument Valley (iOS & Android)

This game has become increasingly popular and even crossed over into more mainstream content, referenced in several television shows. This is often cited as a game for non-gamers, making it perfect for gamers of all skill levels.

Jigsaw Puzzle – Daily Puzzles (iOS & Android)

Featuring all-time favorite Disney characters, this game offers hours of easy-going fun. With varying levels of difficulty, gamers of all ages can stay engaged with these fun puzzles.

If your tween loves doing puzzles, then this is absolutely the game for them, as it guarantees hours of puzzle fun featuring all of their favorite characters.

The Sims: Mobile (iOS & Android)

The Sims sees players making their own virtual characters or families and having them live in a virtual world surrounded by other Sims. Players will make decisions and help their Sim to take care of themselves. 

With this mobile entry into the franchise, players can tackle certain objectives as they strive to provide their Sim with a good life. Plus there are loads of daily challenges and seasonal events that will keep your tween entertained and coming back.

Mobile devices are everywhere, and there is a good chance that your tween uses their mobile device as their main source of entertainment. As a result, tweens everywhere are looking for the right games to keep them engaged during their off-time. 

Finding the right mobile game can be hard, especially when it comes to finding a good game for your tween. There are loads of apps geared towards kids, and apps geared towards teens and adults.

However, the tween market is not as big. Finding a good game that is complex enough to keep your child engaged and having fun while still being appropriate can be tough. However, that does not mean that it is an impossible task.

There are plenty of games that are appropriate for tweens that are also loads of fun! With this list you can find the right fit for your tween and get them some fantastic games for their mobile device.

Found this Tween Game Guide helpful?

Dive into our full collection of tween gift guides, including:

• Best gifts for a girl gamer
• Terrific gift ideas for a 12-year-old boy gamer
• What to buy for the Minecraft fan
• Best Video Console Games for Tweens

You may also be interested in our full collection of tween gift guides, including:

The post 11 Best App-Based Games For Tweens (9, 10, 11, 12 Year Olds) appeared first on Tween Parent | Family Lifestyle Blog.

For many parents, it can be hard to set solid ground rules for your tweens’ use of technology. Technology such as video games, tablets, and cell phones have quickly become the go-to source of entertainment for tweens everywhere.

However, tech is also one of the main avenues tweens use for education and communication with friends and peers. As such, balancing how much time they spend on technology can be a challenge.

Further, as a parent, your rules must be simple and easy to follow, but most importantly, you must be consistent in enforcement. Some parents like to explicitly write out or state rules, while others just encourage kids to spend time off the screens.

There are many ways to prevent your tween from being glued to their tech and the negative effects it can have. However, it is also important to recognize the positive effects it has as well.

To help you through this challenging stage of tween parenting, we’ve got a simple but comprehensive guide to setting ground rules for your tween’s use of technology.

Talk It Out

If you are reading this because your tween already uses tech too much, try talking to them first. Bring up that you feel they are too distracted or involved in online entertainment and that you would prefer they balance their use of tech with the rest of their lives.

Sometimes an issue only needs to be brought to your tween’s attention for it to be fixed, so try to have a conversation and allow them to fix their habits. Of course, the rest of this guide can also be used as suggestions to give your tween.

However, if your tween is not willing to limit the use of technology by themselves, then now would be a good time to move on to the rest of this guide.

Technology As A Privilege Versus Technology As A Right

One concept that is important to establish early on is the idea that technology is a privilege, not a right. This is especially so if you are the one who paid or is paying for your tween’s tech, which most parents typically do.

Technology is not something tweens have an inherent right to, and conveying that to your child is important. Many tweens will have friends or know kids that have near unlimited access to their technology, which is up to their parents.

However, that does not mean that your child abides by other families’ rules. Teach your child early on that they get to use technology, not that they have to.

Negative Aspects Of Tech

Despite all it does for us, it would be foolish to argue that there are not any negative aspects of technology use. Typically, using technology in and of itself isn’t really associated with any major negative repercussions.

Rather, it is what your tweens are doing on their tech that could present an issue. Social media, which is incredibly popular and one of the main reasons tweens want cell phones and tablets, can be a great way to connect with friends.

On the other hand, many social media sites do not restrict what people are allowed to post, while others still allow for some potentially harmful imagery.

Social media can be harmful for developing tweens as it can present them with different ideals of what they should look and act like. This of course can lead to lower self-esteem, which is something you and your tween can and should avoid.

Social media presents a gallery of competing voices and opinions that can be a lot for a developing tween. Of course, this does not mean that all aspects of social media are inherently negative, only that it presents a risk at times.

Further, access to the internet means access to harmful or sensitive content, such as depictions of violence, which can include filmed real-world violence, adult entertainment, malware, and scammers.

Thankfully, a lot of this can be avoided even if your tween uses the internet a lot. There are a plethora of parental blockers that you can install to manage what content your tween has access to.

Standing Up To Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is a major topic of contention among parents, schools, and youth organizations. Now more than ever, youth of all ages are exposed to all types of online slander, bullying, and harassment.

Of course, the smaller your online footprint is, the less likely you are to deal with cyberbullying. The key is helping your tween manage their online footprint.

• We recommend keeping as many of their accounts anonymous as possible
• Try not to use full names where possible
• Teach your tween to limit pictures of themselves
• Teach your tween to never divulge personal information to people they do not know

There is a difference between being an active participant and simply spectating when it comes to social media.

If your tween is only on social media to keep up with other people, and does not post themselves, the chances of anyone trying to cyberbully them is minimal. This is because often the targets of online harassment present themselves as targets by putting themselves in the spotlight or publicly reacting to harassment, which fuels more cyberbullying.

There is also a problem with cyberbullying in the world of online gaming. Many online games give players access to an open microphone to talk to their teammates or competition. Of course, this can lead to some nasty language and, if the situation is bad enough, targeted harassment.

Teach your tween to use microphone settings to mute people or have players muted by default. There is also the saving grace of the block button, as most of the time blocking an abusive account will be enough to stop the harassment.

Your Tweens Online Behavior

A large part of setting ground rules for your tween’s use of technology is ensuring proper conduct online. Of course, you should consistently educate and reinforce online safety.

Teach your kids not to give out personal information and be wary of what they download and who they communicate with. As a parent, there are many ways to restrict others’ access to your child’s account, depending on the application.

You should also teach your child to behave properly online, as it can be easy for kids to want to mimic what they say. Bullying, harassment, and any other harmful online behavior should be grounds for immediate restriction of your tween’s access to their gadgets.

Creating An Appropriate And Healthy Use Of Tech

As we have established, much of a tween’s interests will naturally fall into some kind of tech category. As such, it is important not totally to restrict tweens from technology but rather foster a healthy relationship with technology.

This means encouraging your kids to develop skills or participate in activities outside of technology. It should be noted that at times, use of technology is not particularly extensive, such as answering a quick message online.

In fact, while tweens may look like they are always on their phones or games, they often like to use their devices in short bursts. This is not so bad as it allows them to use technology as a break from other activities or work.

As a parent, you need to determine what constitutes extensive or full use of tech. Are your kids allowed to have their gadgets on their person to answer messages? How many hours of gaming or streaming is too much in a day or week?

Some parents let their children play games at any time of the day with a time limit.  Other parents only allow screen time after school work and chores are done.  Be clear with your child about your expectations and when they can use their screen time each day.

These are questions that only you can decide the answer to, and you should convey what you feel is too much to your child.

Think your tween is using their smartphone excessively? We cover tips for tackling tween phone addiction over here.

Creating A Tech Contract

An effective way to manage your tween’s use of technology is to create a tech contract. Essentially, you will want to set some ground rules and written exceptions. Your tweens will have to abide by those rules or face some kind of penalty.

However, there has to be an upside to the contract, so try to offer benefits, such as increased time on weekends or the ability to earn extra time.

We mentioned that you should include any exceptions to rules; that way, you are transparent early on and don’t have to worry about maintaining the rules. Basically, you don’t want to accidentally set a precedence that you will later want to revoke.

This can be a good way to enforce tech rules in your household, as a tech contract should be complete and easy to understand. This makes following the rules easier and alleviates the anxiety of “What am I allowed to do and when?”.

Monitoring Your Tweens Tech Use

There are several ways to monitor your tweens’ use of technology. First and foremost, you should always have access to their social media accounts. This way, if anything happens, you can step in and address or fix the issue.

Further, most devices have parent features that allow you to restrict access to certain content. There are also ways for you to get alerted as to what your tween is doing. For instance, app stores make it possible for your child to need your permission before downloading apps.

There are also devices that parents can use to set filters and encourage safe internet use for children.  Some routers have parental controls that allow you to restrict devices by the time of day so you can turn off internet access at bedtime.

Of course, children will quickly learn to switch to cellular data on their phones to avoid this.  Some devices, like Circle Home Plus, allow you to restrict websites and apps no matter which networks your children are on. 

The Safe Internet Filter allows you to see a full history of every website that your child visits, including if they try to visit a blocked site.  This works on your home computers, and you can also pay extra to monitor their phones.

Each family will have its own expectations and rules for screen time and acceptable use. This is a great opportunity to have an open conversation with your tween and let them know your rules and expectations, so everyone is on the same page. 

More Tech Gear Reviews For Your Tweens

• Is your tween ready for the responsibility and functionality of their own smartwatch? What to look for when picking out a smartwatch for tweens and the best recommended brands for the pre-teen age group.

• Your sporty tweens may also be interested in our range of tween fitness trackers. These are specialized watches that not just tell the time but can help them with tracking steps, heart rate and more.

• Looking for something a little more low-tech that doesn’t need charging and will simply help your tween keep track of time? Try this range of trendy and functional watches for tweens.

• Is your pre-teen showing an interest in photography? Check out this great range of digital cameras for tweens, from simple point and shoots to beginner mirrorless and DLSR cameras.

• Every tween needs a reliable set of headphones. Whether it’s for doing their homework or home learning or for chilling out to their favorite tunes, here are the best headphones and wireless earbuds for tweens.

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