The best gifts for nine-year-olds, picked by nine-year-olds and parents

Popcorn makers, Lego Fortnite and the coolest water bottle around ... surprise the mini tween in your life with our pick of the top gifts and toys

The best gifts for eight-year-olds

The start of the tween years, nine years old, is a sweet spot between curiosity and growing independence, making it a fun, though sometimes tricky, age to buy for.

Kids at this age are up for a challenge, whether that means trying a trickier craft set, playing a more complex game or stepping up their sporting interests. Pitch a gift right and you'll not only get the whoop of joy when they first receive it, but something that will hold their interest and help them develop their skills, interests and hobbies over time.