42 Best Toys for 8-Year-Old Boys To Teach Them Something New

Our top picks from Ravensburger, LEGO, Playmobil, Educational Insights, and more

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Best Toys for 8-Year-Old Boys

The Spruce / Amelia Manley

Whether your child is into sports, arts and crafts, or books, the best toys for 8-year old boys are tailored to their age and maturity, ensure their safety, teach them a new skill or fact, and most importantly, cater to their interests.

"Toys at this age should match the specifics like and dislikes of the specific individual while still encouraging socialization and imagination," Dan Mason, a licensed pediatric-focused speech-language pathologist says.

We researched and tested the best toys on the market, considering the age range, educational value, and safety features. Based on these factors, our favorite picks include an educational science kit from Scientific Explorer and Crayola's Make a Beast craft kit to help express his creativity.

Here are the best toys for 8-year-old boys.

Rubik's Phantom Cube

Rubiks Cube Phantom

Amazon

What We Like
  • Works as a memory game as well as a brain teaser

  • Helps your child practice logic skills

What We Don't Like
  • Can be difficult to solve and may be frustrating

If your child likes puzzles, this new Rubiks Phantom Cube is another level up from a regular Rubiks cube. Touch the tiles to momentarily reveal their color and try to solve it before it fades back to black. We love how this game is portable, making it great for car trips or just on the go.

Price at the time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 3.63 x 2.38 x 5.5 inches | Material: Not Listed | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

SkeeBall The Classic Arcade Game

SkeeBall The Classic Arcade Game

Target

What We Like
  • Great for 1-4 players

  • Portable

What We Don't Like
  • Some users say the board is a bit small

Bring the fan-favorite arcade game home with this officially-licensed SkeeBall set. Practice your aim and precision by tossing the wooden balls into the rings, and see who can get the most points. Plus it's portable so you can bring this to family events, on road trips, or whenever you need some arcade fun.

Price at time of publish: $24

Dimensions: 20 Inches (H) x 16 Inches (W) x 16 Inches (D) | Material: Wood and plastic | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

LEGO Marvel Black Panther Wakanda Forever King Namor’s Throne Room Building Kit

 LEGO Marvel Black Panther Wakanda Forever King Namor’s Throne Room Building Kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • Includes the Black Panther submarine and King Namor’s throne room

  • Great for building and following instructions and imaginative play

What We Don't Like
  • Pricey

For Marvel and LEGO fans, this set, based on the new Wakanda Forever film, is a sure bet. It includes the Black Panther submarine and King Namor’s throne room and Shuri, Attuma and King Namor minifigures. This is great for building skills and following instructions as well as imaginative play.

Price at the time of publish: $35

Dimensions: 13.94 x 7.52 x 2.32 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 7 years and up

Pokémon TCG Sword & Shield Silver Tempest Elite Trainer Box

Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield Silver Tempest Elite Trainer Box

Amazon

What We Like
  • Includes 8 Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield—Silver Tempest booster packs and 65 card sleeves featuring Alolan Vulpix


  • Includes a guide to this expansion pack

What We Don't Like
  • Cards are random

If your 8-year-old is a huge Pokémon fan, this new expansion pack is the perfect toy. With 8 Pokémon TCG: Sword & Shield—Silver Tempest booster packs and 65 card sleeves featuring Alolan Vulpix, this game includes hours of fun.

Price at the time of publish: $45

Dimensions: 3.6 x 7.5 x 6.55 inches | Material: Paper | Recommended Age: 6 years and up

Thames & Kosmos Spy Labs Master Detective Toolkit Version 2

Thames & Kosmos Spy Labs Master Detective Toolkit Version 2

Amazon

What We Like
  • Includes a UV light, disappearing ink, fingerprint powder, and a crime scene notepad

  • Learn how to use forensic science to answer questions, gather evidence, and solve crime

What We Don't Like
  • Some users wish they included more practice cases

For 8-year-olds who love detective work (or the Hardy Boys!), this kit has everything they need to be the best detective on the block. With a UV light, disappearing ink, fingerprint powder, and a notepad all included, kids can solve the included cases or create their own mysteries.

Price at the time of publish: $50

Dimensions: 13 x 3.7 x 9.8 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

Hasbro Gaming Marvel Mayhem Card Game

Marvel Mayhem Card Game

Hasbro Gaming

What We Like
  • Can play as Ironman, Captain Marvel, Scarlet Witch, or Black Panther 

  • Practice strategy and creativity

What We Don't Like
  • Must be played with at least two players

If your child is a huge Marvel fan, this card game is for him. Practice strategy as you play as one of your favorite characters in this quick-moving game. It's also portable for on-the-go family fun.

Price at the time of publish: $17

Dimensions: 1 x 3.88 x 5 inches | Material: Paper | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

PlayMonster Meltdown Game

PlayMonster Meltdown Game

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • Fun for family game night

  • Great for learning strategy and problem-solving

What We Don't Like
  • Some users say the slime has an odd smell

In this updated take on Jenga, take turn stacking your cubes on top of the slime, but be careful, if they spill, they're all yours. Kids will love the unpredictability of this game, and parents will love the easy clean up.

Price at the time of publish: $18

Dimensions: 4 x 6 x 9 inches | Material: Not listed | Recommended Age: 7 years and up

Top Race RC Construction Toy Trucks

Top Race RC Construction Toy Trucks

Top Race

What We Like
  • Build a dump truck, cement truck, and a crane truck

  • Comes with a powered drill tool

What We Don't Like
  • Noisy

We love this set because not only does it come with three remote-control powered trucks, but your child gets to build them himself with the included powered drill tool and instructions. Once built, they have over 100 feet of range with the remote control and even include realistic truck sounds.

Price at the time of publish: $40

Dimensions: 8 x 4 x 6 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

National Geographic Mega Fossil Dig Kit

4.5
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Mega Fossil Dig Kit

Courtesy by Amazon

What We Like
  • Comes with 15 fossils to dig up

  • Includes a chisel, a brush, and a magnifying glass

What We Don't Like
  • Can be messy

If your 8-year-old can't get enough of dinosaurs, they will love to dig into their fossils. This STEM-inspired kit comes with 15 fossils for your kiddo to excavate with the help of a chisel, brush, and a magnifying glass. The 16-page learning guide accompanying this set helps your child identify specimens and learn more about the dinosaurs behind the fossils.

Price at the time of publish: $25

Dimensions: 7.2 x 2.2 x 10 inches | Material: Not listed | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

Taco vs. Burrito LLC Taco vs. Burrito

4.2
Taco vs Burrito - The Strategic Family Friendly Card Game Created by a 7 Year Old - Perfect for Boys, Girls, Kids, Families & Adults Who Love Card Games...

Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy to learn and quick to play

  • Great for family game nights

What We Don't Like
  • Some users would like more cards in the deck for less predictability in future games

Work on your strategy skills with this fun (and funny!) card game for the whole family. 8-year-olds will love this 2021 winner of the National Parenting Product Award as they battle to build the weirdest meal of all. Plus the game is portable, making it perfect for family vacations or long car rides.

Price at time of publish: $25

Dimensions: 7 x 5 x 2 inches | Material: Paper | Recommended Age: 7 years and up

ThinkFun Rush Hour Traffic Jam Logic Game

Thinkfun-rush-hour-traffic-jam-logic-game

Amazon

What We Like
  • Great for learning strategy and problem-solving skills

  • Includes 40 challenges from beginner to expert, a game grid, cars, and a storage bag

What We Don't Like
  • Only one player at a time

Test your logic by getting these cars out of rush hour gridlock in this classic game. Great for 8-year-old boys, take on one of the 40 challenges from beginner to expert, and watch them learn strategy and problem-solving skills as they go.

Price at time of publish: $22

Dimensions: 8.88 x 2.5 x 8 inches | Material: Not listed | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

National Geographic Earth Science Kit

National Geographic Earth Science Kit

National Geographic

What We Like
  • Includes 15 experiment activities from water tornadoes and building a volcano to two geologic dig kits

What We Don't Like
  • Some users wanted more detailed instructions

For the child who loves science experiments, this kit includes 15 fun and exciting experiments to try. From dueling water tornadoes and building an erupting volcano to growing a crystal, there's something for everyone in this STEM kit from National Geographic.

Price at the time of publish: $30

Dimensions: 8.66 x 3.15 x 12 inches | Material: Multiple | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

Jack in the Box Space Explorer Craft Projects

Jack in the Box space explorer craft projects

Amazon

What We Like
  • Science, arts & crafts, and a board game in one

  • Encourages creativity and curiosity

What We Don't Like
  • Some users say the projects can only be completed once

For future astronauts or any kid curious about space, this activity box can help them cultivate their passion. Crafts include creating a solar system mobile and a kaleidoscope, plus the set includes a board game perfect for learning space facts.

Price at time of publish: $26

Dimensions: 11.93 x 8.58 x 1.65 inches | Material: Not listed | Recommended Age: 6 to 10 years

Crayola Light Up Tracing Pad & Drawing Projector

Crayola Light-Up Tracing Pad

Amazon

What We Like
  • Over 100 traceable images

  • Includes a graphite pencil, 12 colored pencils, 10 tracing sheets, and 10 blank sheets

What We Don't Like
  • 3 AA batteries not included

If there's a budding artist in your family, a tracing pad is a great way to help them perfect their craft. This set comes with over 100 traceable images and includes a graphite pencil, colored pencils, 10 tracing sheets, and 10 blank sheets.

Price at time of publish: $26

Dimensions: 2.06 x 13.75 x 12.06 inches | Material: Graphite | Recommended Age: 6 years and up

Wonder Hunt: A Seek and Find Bingo Adventure

Wonder Hunt Scavenger Hunt Journal

Uncommon Goods

What We Like
  • Scavenger hunt, field journal, and bingo game in one

  • Easy for traveling

What We Don't Like
  • May not hold attention

Turn everyday into a scavenger hunt with this field journal meets bingo game. This book includes 500 everyday items to seek and find, plus each chapter has its own central theme. When you find an item, use one of the included stickers to track it on one of the 25 bingo boards.

Price at time of publish: $19

Dimensions: 168 pages | Material: Paper | Recommended Age: 7 years and up

Thames & Kosmos Candy Vending Machine STEM Experiment Kit

Thames--kosmos-candy-vending-machine-stem-experiment-kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • STEM-based learning

  • Learn about gears, gravity, forces, motion, and collisions

What We Don't Like
  • 8-year-olds may need help with construction

Not only was this toy a 2022 ASTRA Best Toys for Kids finalist and a 2022 Toy of the Year Award finalist in the Construction category, it's great for learning STEM and math concepts like gravity, force, and motion. Kids build their own vending machine that collects coins and releases small candy or trinkets. The best part is that it can be built and rebuilt over and over, so kids can continue to practice their mechanical engineering.

Price at time of publish: $40

Dimensions: 13 x 3.8 x 11.5 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

Educational Insights BrainBolt Brain Teaser Memory Game

Educational Insights BrainBolt Brain Teaser Memory Game

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • Great for memory and problem solving

  • Can play by yourself or with a friend

What We Don't Like
  • Some users say it can be challenging to learn

For a child who loves memory games, you can't do much better than the BrainBolt Brain Teaser game. Watch as the buttons light up and see how long you can remember the pattern. Perfect for long car rides, this memory game is a hit for this age group, and parents will love that the sound can be turned off.

Price at time of publish: $21

Dimensions: 8 x 5.1 x 2.1 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 7 years and up

Hasbro Gaming Connect 4 Spin Game

Hasbro Gaming Connect 4 Spin Game

JC Penney

What We Like
  • Fun for family game night

  • Great for strategy and creativity

What We Don't Like
  • Some users say it can be frustrating for younger players

Connect 4 is a classic family board game, but this new Spin version turns a classic on its head, no pun intended. After each turn, the player spins the column, making the disc land at random, either setting you up for an easy win or a night of strategizing.

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 2.5 x 12.5 x 10.5 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

Osmo Detective Agency

Osmo Detective Agency

Amazon

What We Like
  • No WiFi necessary

  • Beginner to expert learning levels

What We Don't Like
  • Needs an Osmo Base and iPad/Fire Tablet to play

Toys that can interest your kiddos for years to come are hard to find which is why we love the Osmo Detective Agency game. Recommended for ages 5 to 12, kids can learn about historical trivia and geography while solving a mystery and the various levels make help the game grow with your child.

Price at time of publish: $40

Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 1.25 inches | Material: Cardboard, Plastic | Recommended Age: 5 to 12 years

Elmer's Celebration Slime Kit

Elmer’s Celebration Slime Kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • Washable and nontoxic

  • Great for creative play

  • Comes with an activator

What We Don't Like
  • Has a mild scent

The slime craze isn't over just yet. This kit is perfect for anybody who loves to create. With options from glow-in-dark to glitter, there are plenty of creations to be made, plus the easy clean-up gets a thumbs up from parents. It comes with its own all-in-one formula so no need for any extra products like contact lens solution or baking soda.

Price at time of publish: $25

Dimensions: 3.06 x 11.25 x 7.19 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 6 years and up

Scientific Explorer Mind Blowing Science Kit

4.5
Scientific Explorer Mind Blowing Science Kit

Walmart

What We Like
  • STEM-based

  • Experiments are easy to follow

  • Great bonding activity

What We Don't Like
  • Extra products needed that are not included

With the My First Mind Blowing Science Kit from Scientific Explorer, young boys can learn STEM skills through exciting hands-on experiments. This kit comes with 20 pieces, including test tubes, plastic cups, measuring scoops, cotton swabs, and more. There are also supplies like citric acid, baking soda, vegetable oil, and red cabbage powder—everything kids need to complete 11 scientific activities.

Our tester found this toy educational without being boring and able to capture her children's attention. The realistic-looking materials add to the appeal of this set, making kids feel like real scientists. Guided by straightforward instructions in the activity booklet, kids learn the basics of conducting scientific experiments, chemical reactions, and more. The learning continues with extension questions to keep young ones engaged.

The packaging makes cleanup easy, and the affordable price point makes this a no-brainer buy. However, our tester noted that this set does require additional items that aren't included. She also wished the ingredient bags were resealable for easy repeated use.

Price at time of publish: $13

Dimensions: 10.1 x 2.9 x 12.1 inches | Material: Not Listed | Recommended Age: 6 years and up

Scientific Explorer My First Mind Blowing Science Kit

The Spruce / Sarah Vanbuskirk

What Testers Say

"Soon enough, their other brothers, aged 10 and 12, were gathered around the table as well, each wanting to be the next one to measure, scoop, pour, and/or stir.—Sarah Vanbuskirk, Product Tester

National Geographic Break Open 10 Premium Geodes Kit

National Geographic Break Open 10 Premium Geodes Kit

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • 100% natural geodes

  • Includes a 16-page learning guide

What We Don't Like
  • Some geodes can be hard to open

If your child is a future geologist or you're hoping to promote STEM at home, this National Geographic Kit is the perfect gift. Your child can break open real geodes and learn about what's inside, thanks to the accompanying 16-page learning guide. It even comes with stands so you can display your favorite crystals at home.

Price at time of publish: $30

Dimensions: 2.75 x 7.75 x 12 inches | Material: Geodes | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

Skillmatics Guess in 10

Skillmatics Card Game - Guess in 10 Animal Planet, Gifts for 6 Year Olds and Up, Quick Game of Smart Questions, Fun Family Game

Amazon

What We Like
  • Great for learning

  • Portable, easy for traveling

What We Don't Like
  • Some cards may be too difficult

This card game is one the whole family can enjoy. Each player has 10 chances to ask questions in order to guess the animal on the card. Perfect for family game night, 2-6 players can play at a time with games taking around 20 minutes. If a long car trip or any kind of travel is on the calendar, this game is perfect to pass the time.

Price at time of publish: $15

Dimensions: 7.6 x 6.1 x 1.73 inches | Material: Cardboard | Recommended Age: 6 years and up

ThinkFun Gravity Maze

ThinkFun Gravity Maze

Amazon

What We Like
  • Lots of play potential

  • Fun and challenging

What We Don't Like
  • Pieces can be hard to keep track of

  • Smaller than it looks in photos

Challenge your 8-year-old boy to this fun and challenging series of marble mazes that is sure to test their problem-solving skills. Completing each task requires a series of skills including spatial reasoning, visual perception, and more. The challenge continues with 60 different mazes to solve. Be sure to leave extra time after each win to celebrate!

Price at time of publish: $30

Dimensions: 9.38 x 3 x 10.5 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 8-15 years

Diggin DodgeTag Game Set

Diggin DodgeTag Game Set

Amazon

What We Like
  • Safer alternative to dodgeball

  • Suitable for various ages

What We Don't Like
  • Vests run small

While dodgeball can be an exciting game for young boys, the objective of the game can often lead to injury. With this safer alternative, kids throw soft balls at the targets on the mesh vests to gain points. No rough (and often dangerous) rubber dodgeballs needed. Play indoors or outdoors without risk of breaking valuables. Eight year olds will love playing with friends, family members, or even parents.

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 2.5 x 10 x 12 inches | Material: Not Listed | Recommended Age: 5 years and up

Lucky Doug Solar Robot Kit 12-in-1 Science STEM Robot Kit

Lucky Doug Solar Robot Kit 12-in-1 Science STEM

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • STEM-based

  • Multiple different builds included

What We Don't Like
  • Can be difficult for young kids

Kids age 8 to 12 will flip for this robot kit. The kit comes equipped with almost 200 pieces to build 12 different types of robots. Once the ‘bot is constructed, it operates on solar power so it can move. This is sure to be a fun toy but also one that teaches kids about science and how things work.

Price at time of publish: $14

Dimensions: 11.06 x 7.2 x 2.64 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

Stomp Rocket Dueling Rockets

Stomp Rocket Dueling Rockets

Amazon

What We Like
  • Durable

  • Easy assembly

  • Two kids can use at once

What We Don't Like
  • Some reviewers were disappointed by rocket height

This classic toy will provide ample entertainment for young kids as they compete to see who can launch their rocket the highest! The Stomp Rocket comes with four rockets and a special “dueling” base, which launches two rockets at the same time. Kids just have to stomp on the launch pads to send the rockets soaring into the air—up to 200 feet with the right force, making this a perfect outdoor toy.

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 16 x 3.3 x 12 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 6 years and up

Watch Ya' Mouth Family Edition Game

Watch Ya' Mouth Family Edition Game

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • Great bonding activity

  • Screen-free activity

What We Don't Like
  • Some reviewers found the game too easy for older kids

Get kids to turn off their electronics for a few hours with a fun family game like Watch Ya’ Mouth. This hilarious family game is perfect for players ages 8 and up, and young boys will love trying to speak phrases while wearing the game’s signature cheek retractors. Watch Ya’ Mouth can be played with three to 10 players.

Price at time of publish: $13

Dimensions: 11 x 8.5 x 2 inches | Material: Not Listed | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

PLAYMOBIL® Back to The Future Delorean

Playmobil Back to The Future Delorean

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • Recognizable characters

  • Great bonding activity

  • Detailed

What We Don't Like
  • Can be difficult to maneuver after building

Though your 8-year-old wasn’t born when Back to the Future came out, they can learn all about the classic movie through the DeLorean toy. The time traveling car has fun lights and winged doors that open and close. Of course the car also comes with Marty McFly, Dr. Emmett Brown, and their furry friend Einstein. 

Price at time of publish: $35

Dimensions: 3.7 x 11.18 x 15.16 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 6 years and up

LEGO Creator 3-in-1 Monster Burger Truck

LEGO Creator 3-in-1 Monster Burger Truck

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • Unique design

  • Great bonding activity

  • Comes with three different builds

What We Don't Like
  • Can be difficult for younger kids

This Lego set comes with an impressive 499 pieces. It’s actually a 3-in-1 toy as the pieces can make a monster burger truck (complete with massive wheels and foldable stairs), an off-roader, or a tractor. There are also two mini figures and even a dog. The versatility truly allows kids to have fun and be imaginative.

Price at time of publish: $60

Dimensions: 15.04 x 10.32 x 2.78 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

Ravensburger Disney Hocus Pocus: The Game

Ravensburger Disney Hocus Pocus: The Game

Amazon

What We Like
  • Fun for the whole family

  • Detailed board and pieces

What We Don't Like
  • Instructions can be difficult to follow

Here’s a game for kids that encourages collaboration and cooperation. The team must work together to protect the people of Salem. The game takes about 30 minutes to play and accommodates two to six players.

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 8.25 x 6.5 x 2.25 inches | Material: Cardstock | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

Crayola Build A Beast Craft Kits

Crayola Build A Beast Bundle, Model Magic Craft Kit

Courtesy of Amazon

What We Like
  • Easy to assemble

  • Customizable

  • Fosters creativity

What We Don't Like
  • Only suitable for one time use

This kit comes with step-by-step instructions so kids can craft their own shark, alligator, and chameleon. After building the molds, they can use the clay to customize their colorful animal. What’s really awesome is that the animals’ tails move back and forth.

Price at time of publish: $23

Dimensions: 12.38 x 9.5 x 4.19 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 5 years and up

Educational Insights Design & Drill Bolt Buddies Pick-It-Up Truck

Educational Insights Design & Drill Bolt Buddies Pick-It-Up Truck

Amazon

What We Like
  • Suitable for various ages

  • Educational

  • Interactive

What We Don't Like
  • Reviewers found one of the doors on the truck does not stay closed

Operating tools isn’t exactly a kid-safe activity, but it is thanks to this toy. It includes a kid-friendly drill and 18 bolts that can be used to build a recycling truck. And the drill can even operate the truck’s lift arm. There are even two mini figures that can be placed in the truck.

Price at time of publish: $34

Dimensions: 7.5 x 12.4 x 5.9 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 3 years and up

Mattel Lightyear Toys UNO Disney Pixar Lightyear Card Game in Storage Tin

Mattel Lightyear Toys UNO Disney Pixar Lightyear Card Game in Storage Tin

Amazon

What We Like
  • Great for family game nights

  • Hyperspeed rule keeps the game moving with multiple player "skips"

What We Don't Like
  • Not too different from the original Uno

If family game night is a common occurrence at your house, this UNO card game is for you, especially if you also share a love of Disney. Though sometimes games move slowly, the hyperspeed rule helps keep the game moving, and even older kids can enjoy too.

Price at time of publish: $11

Dimensions: 0.79 x 3.62 x 5.71 inches | Material: Paper | Recommended Age: 7 years and up

Klutz Lego Race Cars STEM Activity Kit

 Klutz Lego Race Cars STEM Activity Kit

Amazon

What We Like
  • Build up to 10 LEGO race cars and a track to race two cars at a time

  • STEM-based learning

What We Don't Like
  • Some users want more detailed instructions

Hit the track with this STEM-meets-Lego race car kit. Build up to 10 Lego race cars and a track in which you can race two cars at a time. Practice problem-solving skills and basic engineering to create your track.

Price at the time of publish: $30

Dimensions: 8 x 1.75 x 10 inches | Material: Not listed | Recommended Age: 7 to 12 years

Uncommon Goods Create Your Own Comic Book Kit

Uncommon-goods-create-your-own-comic-book-kit

uncommon-goods

What We Like
  • Perfect for art lovers

  • Book is professionally bound after creation

What We Don't Like
  • Some kids may need help with story creation

For budding artists or storytellers, a make-your-own comic book is a dream come true. The best part? This set comes with a pre-paid envelope to send in your story. In 4 to 6 weeks, you'll get a professionally-bound version of your book returned in the mail.

Price at time of publish: $30

Dimensions: 10" L x 7" W; 18 pages | Material: Markers, paper, 100% recycled cardboard box | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

3Doodler Start + 3D Pen Set

3Doodler Start + 3D Pen Set

Amazon

What We Like
  • Creative and STEM-based learning

  • No hot parts so it's safe for little hands

What We Don't Like
  • Users say the filament may jam occasionally

If your child is into arts and crafts or technology, this screen-free 3D printer pen is a great gift option. The 3D Pen set comes with stencils, so your kiddo can bring their ideas to life. By pressing down on the pen, plastic extrudes and hardens quickly without getting hot, making it safe for little hands.

Price at time of publish: $50

Dimensions: 9.06 x 6.02 x 2.56 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 6 years and up

VTech KidiStar DJ Mixer

VTech KidiStar DJ Mixer

Amazon

What We Like
  • Comes with 15 songs and over 2000 sound combos

  • Great for creativity and learning rhythm

What We Don't Like
  • Noisy

If your 8-year-old loves music, they will love creating their own musical masterpieces on this DJ turntable, made especially for kids. With over 15 songs and 2000 sounds included, your child can create their own masterpieces or try to remember the rhythms in a memory game.

Price at the time of publish: $54

Dimensions: 3.62 x 14.37 x 9.25 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 5 to 10 years

Spin to Survive Frozen Mountain Adventure Book

Spin to Survive Frozen Mountain Adventure Book

Uncommon Goods

What We Like
  • Board game and book in one

  • Different experience each time you read

What We Don't Like
  • Some themes might be scary

Part board game and part book, Spin to Survive Frozen Mountain combines a pop-out spinner with an adventure book. Spin the dial and jump to the right page to decide your fate. The book also includes real-life stories from wilderness survivors and how-tos on building a snow shelter or starting a fire.

Price at time of publish: $30

Dimensions: 11.7" L x 13.65" W x 0.95" H | Material: Plastic, cardboard, paper | Recommended Age: 7 years and up

LEGO Freight Train

Lego Freight Train

Amazon

What We Like
  • Engaging, with hours of play

  • Trains are remote-controlled

What We Don't Like
  • Expensive

Though it can be pricey, LEGO is always a great toy option for an eight-year-old. This set is part of the "City" collection and includes a locomotive, flatcar, open wagon, auto carrier, two EVs, two cargo containers, reach stacker, 33 track pieces and 6 mini figures. Our favorite part has to be the toy charging station which equals endless hours of playtime. Not only does your child get to build the set, they can also play with the remote-control trains and create an imaginary world.

Price at time of publish: $200

Dimensions: 3.5 inches H x 35.5 inches L x 2.5 inches W | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 7 years and up

LEGO Jurassic World Dominion T. Rex & Atrociraptor Dinosaur Breakout, 466 Pieces

LEGO Jurassic World Dominion T. rex & Atrociraptor Dinosaur Breakout

Amazon

What We Like
  • Frustration-free packaging

  • Includes a T. rex enclosure with an escape function and a toy truck

What We Don't Like
  • Pricey

Jurassic World fans will love this gift. Not only can your child build the big rig truck and market, they can act out their favorite escape scene from the film with two dinosaurs and 4 mini figures, each with their own  tranquilizer elements.

Price at time of publish: $100

Dimensions: 18.9 x 11.1 x 2.4 inches | Material: Plastic | Recommended Age: 8 years and up

VTech KidiZoom Creator Cam

VTech KidiZoom Creator Cam

Amazon

What We Like
  • Fosters creativity

  • Multiple ways to play

  • Suitable for a variety of ages

What We Don't Like
  • Some reviewers found picture quality disappointing

Creative kids will absolutely love receiving this VTech Creator Cam. The HD-camera comes with everything so they can create movie magic. There are more than 20 animated backgrounds, a green screen, built-in editing software, and a USB cable to upload any clips. There’s even a tripod so the camera can be securely placed on a tabletop.

Price at time of publish: $34

Dimensions: 1.47 x 2.4 x 3.58 inches | Material: Not Listed | Recommended Age: 5 years and up

What to Look for in Toys for 8-Year Old Boys

Recommended Age

Eight-year-old boys tend to have a longer attention span than younger children, so they may be able to handle toys and games that require greater concentration. You can find everything from simple toys that require some hands-on design or construction to complex games that they can play with friends and family. Just be sure to check out the recommended age as a guide while you shop.

Safety

This is the perfect time to start talking to your child about safety and giving them the chance to take some responsibility for meeting safety guidelines of their new toys, such as wearing eye protection when playing with a chemistry set or wearing a helmet or knee pads with an outdoor toy. You can even get them involved by letting them pick out their stylish protective gear.

Educational Value

Look for a toy that can introduce a new skill to your 8-year old boy. STEM toys that are tailored for a budding scientist or engineer are a great way to get your child excited about science, technology, engineering, and math. Look for something with hands-on components that they can manipulate and build for the greatest learning experience.

Educational toys should also be fun, especially for this age group. Teacher and literary coach Alicia Drozd recommends incorporating play and learning together. “Make the learning more playful,” she says. This can be anything from becoming word detectives to playing a game together.

FAQ
  • What are the most durable outdoor toys for this age group?

    Durable toys are best for 8-year-old boys that like to play rough. Durable outdoor toys that are made to withstand weather and play are great options.

  • Where can you find an affordable toy for this age group?

    There are plenty of affordable toys for 8-year-old boys. The Watch Ya’ Mouth game and My First Mind Blowing Science Kit are two great options for under $20. Other games and activity kits can be found at similar prices.

  • How long do most 8-year-olds play with the toys they get at that age?

    This will vary from kid to kid, but most 8-year-olds have longer attention spans than younger kids and may play with toys for longer. They are also starting to develop interests that may last into their teens or adult years. Kids at this age may play with their toys for hours. New toys may continue to entertain them for months to years depending on the child's changing interests.

Why Trust the Spruce?

This article was written by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce and The Spruce Crafts, covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, crafts, and the holidays. Additional reporting was done by Caroline Utz, the associate editorial director for The Spruce.

Updated by
Jenna Stregowski
Jenna Stregowski, RVT, Pet Expert and Contributing Writer for The Spruce Pets

Jenna Stregowski, RVT, has worked in veterinary medicine for more than two decades. Her veterinary experience ranges from routine wellness care and preventive medicine to emergency and specialty care, where she has performed duties ranging from specialized nursing to clinical administration. Jenna has been writing about pet care for over 10 years, including for publications like DVM 360 and DogTime.

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