Best Gifts for 12-Year-Old Girls

What's Covered

Normally, 12-year-olds, or tweens, are in that stage where they act like a child and all of a sudden, talk like an adult. Not quite teenagers, no longer kids. It can be confusing for mothers, or for parents in general, to think about what gifts your girl wants. As the little girls are entering adolescence, they might not like what they used to like a year ago anymore. They might want to start using make-ups, perhaps? Do you wonder what are trendy but teen-friendly gift ideas? In this article, I will write about what my daughter could possibly want as a gift.

Gadgets and Electronics

1.Fujifilm Instax Mini 11

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera - Lilac Purple
  • Slim body size with transparent ring lens
  • Automatic exposure - The Mini 11 automatically selects the optimal shutter speed in any environment. Mini 11 captures bright backgrounds and bright subjects, even in dark scenes.
  • 1-touch selfie mode - The Mini 11 has a built-in macro mode and a selfie mirror for the perfect selfie. You don’t need a close-up lens attachment. Just pull out the lens barrel until the “Selfie Mode” mark appears

I gifted my daughter this camera for her 12th birthday. She absolutely loved her very own mini polaroid camera. This is super light-weight and easy to use. The film, which includes 10 sheets can be a little expensive. So, I my daughter and I watched lots of YouTube video tutorials to get tips before we started using it. Preferably, use it in well lighted room or outside for that natural light. It comes with colorful stickers that she can personalize.

This is one way for you to make your daughter do some household chores in exchange of films, too.

2. Fujifilm Instax Mini Link Smartphone Printer

Fujifilm Instax Mini Link Smartphone Printer - Ash White
  • Print Photos Easily Using The Instax Mini Link App
  • Bluetooth Capability
  • Add Fun Filters And Frames To Your Photos

Imagine a small printer that allows you to print pictures from your smartphone. Amazing right? This mini printer allows you to edit, make a collage, add frames and stickers before printing your photo.  It is very straightforward and easy to use.

This lightweight device is available in Ash White, Dark Denim, or Dusty Pink. It connects to Bluetooth through Instax Mini Link app. The fil it uses is the same film that you buy for Instax Mini 11. The printing process is super easy and fast. Totally worth every penny.

3. Canon IVY Mobile Mini Photo Printer

Canon IVY Mini Photo Printer for Smartphones (Rose Gold) - Sticky-back prints, Pocket-size
  • Form factor: Copy
  • Printer technology: Thermal
  • Print from Bluetooth and social media

A lot of little girls (well I can say almost everyone regardless of age) love to take pictures on their phones. But why store it in her phone if she can print it, right?

This nifty pocket photo printer is available is these pastel colors, Slate Gray, Rose Gold, or Mint Green. To operate this, your phone must have a Bluetooth connection. You need to have an app called Canon Mini Print. There, you can edit or enhance images and add filters before printing then out. What is interesting is that there is no ink required, and the photo paper has an adhesive so she can also create and design stickers and maybe start a scrapbook!

This may not give you the best quality like a normal printer does, but it does the job

4. Coolwee Glitter iPhone 11 Case

Like most middle schoolers, my 12-year old’s most prized possession is her cell phone. To protect her mobile phone, you can give her this sparkly case that is not only very chic, it is also very durable. It is shockproof so it will prevent your phone from scratches. It very sturdy and made out of great quality. If your daughter doesn’t like bling too much, this brand has other cool design options too.

5. PopSockets: PopGrip

PopSockets Phone Grip with Expanding Kickstand, Marble PopGrip - Opal
  • Our durable Pop Socket compatible with iPhone, Samsung, and any other devices, we call a “PopGrip” is anti-drop, allows for one-handed use of your device, and the ability to prop up your phone wherever you go
  • A little life-changer people like to call: a cell phone holder, phone gripper for back of phone, phone holder for hand, or whichever you name you decide
  • PopSockets are compatible with all Popsocket phone accessories including wallets, cases, mounts, slides and non-Popsocket cases for phones

This stylish phone accessory is not just cute, it is also very functional. It lets you take pictures so much easier and type texts comfortably. You can even use it as a stand on a table so you can watch your favorite shows hands-free! It is available in different colors and designs. You can really find one that fits your personality.

This brand also allows you to interchange the PopTop. Meaning you can swap the top for another design or remove it completely for wireless charging. Now that’s cool.

6. Apple AirPods Pro

Apple AirPods Pro
  • Active noise cancellation for immersive sound
  • Transparency mode for hearing and connecting with the world around you
  • Three sizes of soft, tapered silicone tips for a customizable fit

In October 2019, Apple AirPods Pro was released. It has a super sleek and ultra-slim design. It has noise cancellation technology, water and sweat resistant and more expensive than other versions of AirPods. Unlike the other types, this one comes with Silicone tips in 3 sizes to fit and ensure comfort for different ears.

7. Apple AirPods

Sale
Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds, Bluetooth Headphones with Lightning Charging Case...
  • HIGH-QUALITY SOUND — Powered by the Apple H1 headphone chip, AirPods (2nd generation) deliver rich, vivid sound.
  • EFFORTLESS SETUP — After a simple one-tap setup, AirPods are automatically on and always connected. They sense when they’re in your ears and pause when you take them out. And sound seamlessly switches between your iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, iPad, and Apple TV.
  • VOICE CONTROL WITH SIRI — Just say “Hey Siri” for assistance without having to reach for your iPhone.

This came out in 2016 and almost instantaneously, it became almost a necessity for all iPhone users. For a practical mom like me, I would recommend to buy this first as this is cheaper than the Pro version. I wanted to make sure that my child will be able to take good care of a small device like this before giving her a more expensive one.

Here is a short video comparing the two devices:

8. MARBLEFY Custom Name Airpod Case

MARBLEFY Custom Name Airpods Case with Keychain and Running Strap Compatible with Apple AirPods 2nd...
  • CUSTOMIZED- customize your AirPods case with your favorite phrase or name
  • GREAT FOR GIFT- the case is customized to look cute, stylish yet practicable and makes it a perfect gift for women and girls
  • QUALITY - Anti-Slip + Anti-Scratch + Dirt-resistant + Clear Shockproof Apple Air Pod case Compatible with Apple AirPods 2nd generation 1st generation

This aesthetically cute, stylish case is made out of a mix of TPU and hard PC so it is shock-proof, scratch-proof, dirt-resistant and very durable. It comes with a detachable keychain and a strap as well. Energetic 12-year-olds have higher risk in losing or damaging pretty much anything. So, this is a very practical gift for them. It can also be customized which will make them feel more special.

9. Digi marker Selfie 10″ Ring Light

10" Selfie Ring Light with Tripod Stand & Phone Holder, GPEESTRAC Desk Beauty Circle LED Ringlight...
  • 【Dimmable Ring Light】GPEESTRAC ring light featuring 3 color lighting modes: White, Warm White, Warm Yellow, and each mode has 10 brightness levels options. 120pcs premium LED lamp beads to emit soft and bright fill-light, perfect for makeup, photography, zoom meetings and video recording. This LED selfie ring light will be the best partner to record your life.
  • 【Stable Tripod Stand and 360° of free rotation】The sturdy tripod will stand well on your desk without any wobble, and the anti-slip rubber design effectively prevent the tripod stand slipping away. The 360° rotary ball head will allow this table ring light to pivot from 360° and the tripod's knob will lock it in place once you find a suitable angle.
  • 【Universal Gooseneck Phone Holder】The unique gooseneck mobile phone holder design enables you to adjust your phone to the most desired viewing angle, easily get the best angle of supplemental light and shooting perspective. The phone clip can be extended to 3.6inch, it is compatible with most smartphones with or without a case.

Does your daughter like filming? Is she doing TikToks? This equipment will give her quality pictures and videos. The height is adjustable, the tripod is steady and also has great support for holding her cell phone! The lighting and brightness can be adjusted to her liking to achieve that perfect glow. The remote control makes it very convenient. It will be worth your money.

DIY Artsy and Crafty

10. Unicorn Manicure Kit with Scented Press

Kids Nail Kit for Girls Ages 7-12, FunKidz Ultimate 315Pcs Nail Polish Pens Combo Pack Size...
  • [AWESOME COLORS]- Endless design possibilities! 8Pcs nail pens as Glow in Dark Green, Red, Purple, Pearl Pink, Pearl Peacock Blue, Hot Pink, Sky Blue and Black colors. Paint, draw outlines and color in details with these bold colors of professional grade nail polish pens.
  • [KID NAIL ART ULTIMATE SET]- This kid nail polish set for girls 8-15 includes everything need to design nail arts. Perfect activity for sleepover, birthday parties and holiday gatherings. Create festive nail designs for your family and friends with high quality polish and precision tools.
  • [CUTE NAIL DESIGNS]- Our nail stickers have many classic patterns are free from soaking. You just need stick them on nail, easy and time saving. You can decorate the nails designs with nail polish pens after.

Your daughter can throw a manicure party for her friends at home. This is made of safe, non-toxic, high-quality polish that you daughter will adore. It also includes nail pens with 6 lovely colors, nail stickers with charming designs. Oh, and it comes with a glow in the dark nail pen as well that will certainly make her feel unique.

11. Slime Kit

ESSENSON Slime Kit - Slime Supplies Slime Making Kit for Girls Boys, Kids Art Craft, Crystal Clear...
  • DIY slime art craft kit charms is a perfect stress relief toy for boys and girls! Whether you're looking for a toy for sensory play, slime party favor, holiday fun, the mystery slime package
  • In the process of playing, people can exercise the coordination ability of hands, eyes, and brain to cultivate their creativity and imagination
  • This arts and crafts slime making kit supplies comes in a beautiful box

A lot of kids love playing with slime. This DIY, colorful product is child friendly and is perfect to keep them busy. It is made of non-toxic materials so mothers don’t have to worry. Although this is not advisable for ages 5 and below just because of the risk of them eating it. Slime making can be an alternative to screen time. My daughter is obsessed and she said that it very satisfying, calming and lets her focus.

It is important for kids to have a sensory play because it encourages children to be curious, to explore and to discover things around them. Therefore, it stimulates the brain to develop and enhancing their motor skills.[1]

12. Washable Hair Chalk for Girls

New Hair Chalk Comb Temporary Hair Color Dye for Girls Kids, Washable Hair Chalk for Girls Age 4 5 6...
  • 【Perfect Christmas Gift for Girls & Stocking Stuffers for Kids】Unleash your little girl's creativity with this ideal gift of a hair dye comb. With the ability to create unique hairstyles with different tones, this comb is perfect for daily use or as a party hit on special occasions like birthdays, Christmas, Crazy hair, festivals, cosplay shows, DIY parties, and more. Good makeup gifts for girls friend.
  • 【MINI SIZE DESIGN】The length of the hair color comb is about 3.99”(10cm). Although the size is relatively small,it can be used 1-2 times for long hair and 4-5 times for short hair as long as it is well preserved.6 Various colors all mix to create a special hair color style.
  • 【Not Easy Show on Dark Hair】The hair chalk is fun but not a professional hair dye products. It is OK to applied on light hair like blonde. For darker or brown hair, application can be more challenging. Follow these steps1.Apply the color to small sections of hair, ensuring the hair chalk is brushed downward to prevent tangles. 2.Seal the chalk and dry the hair with a hairdryer. 3.To set the color, use gel or hairspray. Note that the chalk may feel slightly sticky.

Transform your look instantly with this DIY hair dyeing product. The package includes 6 Bright and Lively Colors that you can mix to create different looks. The hair chalks can last for up to 3 days and are washable (water and shampoo). The product indicates that it is non-allergenic, non-toxic and water-soluble and environmentally friendly. This is very easy to apply and super fun to use.

It is important for kids to be able to express themselves, experiment and just have fun. This will allow them to easily communicate their feelings to others and to accept who they are and their individuality.[2]

13. Urban Kangaroo Essential Oil Bath Bomb DIY Kit

Make your own bath bombs from scratch! This kit includes all-natural ingredient so it is very good for all skin types. The package includes luxurious essential oils, which smells amazing, and even Himalayan Sea Salt. Now that’s fancy! Since the ingredients are pre-measured, it makes it easy for girls to mix and mold it. It includes instructional videos that is very easy to follow. This is the perfect gift even for bigger girls.

14. Urban Kangaroo Shea Butter Lip Balm DIY Kit

Sale
Shea Butter Lip Balm DIY Kit (Made in USA), Creates 10 Luxurious Lip Balms with EVERYTHING Included
  • Luxurious Lip Balm: DIY kit creates 10 luxurious lip balms with everything included
  • Natural Ingredients: Made with natural shea butter and coconut oil for hydrating and moisturizing
  • Sensitive Skin Formula: Suitable for sensitive skin with natural ingredients like beeswax and calendula

Say goodbye to dry chapped lips! This DIY lip balm nourishes and heals dry lips with Shea butter, grapeseed oil, and beeswax. It is very easy for a 12-year-old to follow, but parent’s supervision may be needed since it involves heating the wax in the microwave. It has Vitamin E for that extra nourishment. She can make 10 lip balms so she can also share this to her friends, or even sell it!

15. The Ultimate Guide to Modern Calligraphy & Hand Lettering for Beginners

The Ultimate Guide to Modern Calligraphy & Hand Lettering for Beginners
  • June & Lucy (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 108 Pages - 08/12/2019 (Publication Date) - June & Lucy (Publisher)

This book is highly recommended for beginners to start practicing their calligraphy journey. It has lots of activities, tips and quality pages that is easy to follow and understand. There are activities and lots of various styles and fonts.

16. Feela Watercolor Dual Brush Tip and Highlighters

Feela Watercolor Dual Brush Tip and Highlighters are non-toxic, acid-free and odorless. These are great for calligraphy, sketching, and gives life and color to journals or scrap books. Since this set comes with 100 pens, you might want to label them to avoid confusion. Colors can be blended and comes in Good purchase for the price.

17. Just My Style Ultimate Scrapbook

Personalize your scrapbook and add your own touch and style by decorating it with stickers, sequins and sparkling stones. Add embellishments and gemstones to make it more stylish and fun. Design it in a way that reflects your personality. It will be an entertaining, enjoyable and creative way to keep memories that will last a long time. It is an affordable starter kit to start your journaling.

18. LED Photo Clip Fairy String Lights

This comes with high quality LED clips and very durable. It is one way for your daughter to display her favorite photos or artworks aside from the old school picture frames. It is very stylish and it really adds brightness, and gives you that soothing glow that will illuminate your room.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=pXwPAel7NW8

Style and Beauty

19. Foreo Luna 2

For teenagers who are undergoing hormonal changes, it is most likely that your tween girl will experience breakouts and acne. To avoid this, you can advise her to wash her face at least twice a day and use the right products. Let her use a mild cleanser, and consider exfoliating using Foreo Luna. This device vibrates to reach deep down your skin and pores, to remove sweats, make ups, and dirt. Gently scrub the face with a mild cleaner for about a minute, and be surprised with a smooth, clear skin after.

20. Fenair Large Vanity Mirror

This mirror pretty much has everything that a tween girl would need. It is stylish, chic and it has a lot of features. She can adjust the brightness of the lights to 3 different options with the smart touch control, so it is very convenient. She can connect her phone or iPads to the built in Bluetooth speaker to make her make-up routine more enjoyable and fun. Users say that the speaker has a really good quality. It consists of 15 light bulbs that can last for up to 50,000 hours. It doesn’t get hot so it is safe, and it is durable so it can really last until she is a grown teen.

21. Beanie Hat Bluetooth

Does your girl love wearing a bun, while doing outdoor activities in the cold months? This knitted beanie is made up of super soft material that will keep her warm and it has a Bluetooth speaker that allows her to listen to her favorite songs during workout or exercise. The speakers deliver clear sounds so not to worry if she need to take a phone call. It can be washed just by removing the lining. No strings attached! This is a perfect Christmas gift that is fashionable that your girl will surely love.

22. Vans Sneakers

These timeless skate style sneakers now come in technicolor that any kid would want to have. This colorful addition to the classic Old Skool sneakers is super comfortable, has a great fit and looks fun and cheerful.

23. Abshoo Galaxy Backpack

One thing that tweens are into: carrying around tiny everything. This bag has just the right size to hold everything she needs, including her laptop or tablet, extra shirt, water bottle, and scrunchies so she can go hands-free. This is a perfect size, good quality, waterproof and has lots of pockets inside. The colors are lively and nice and it will be a perfect gift to any teenager.

24. MAKEMECHIC Tie Dye Hoodie


This hoodie is warm and cozy, light weight, soft and comfortable. It is made of breathable fabric with a bit of stretch. You can select from more than a dozen of pretty colors and dyes.

25. Big Kids Face Bandana

Facemasks are a necessity nowadays. Why use the usual surgical mask when you can get face masks that are both functional and stylish at the same time? A lot of face masks are now available in different designs. These masks are made to fit kids’ size and have an adjustable strap, so it is the perfect fit. This product is made of 100% Polyester, so it comfortable, soft and breathable. The item has 4 masks has colorful patterns and cute prints that doesn’t fade fast when washed. And because of the design and the material used, this won’t cause pain on your kids’ ears.

26. Novelty Animal Cotton Socks

18 Pairs Novelty Animal Cotton Low Cut No Show Ankle Socks for Girls Women Boat Socks
  • These flat boat line cotton ankle socks are perfect suitable for kids Girls (NO younger than 6 years old), Adolescent Girls, Big Girls, Teen Girls, Womens (small feet NO larger than US 7 shoe sizes).
  • QUALITY COTTON --- High quality combed cotton (82% Australian cotton, 15% polyester, 3% spandex) comfortable,breathable, absorb sweat, odor resistant, it can effectively protect skin health. Great teen girls women ankle socks for Spring, Summer and Autumn, Fall
  • COMFORTABLE DESIGN --- Comfortable elastic cuff & SEAMLESS TOE design which is not tight, it's easy to put them on and don't squeeze legs; U design for heel make sure fit well and stay on, not easy to slide off

These fun socks are made of a combination of high-quality cotton, polyester and spandex therefore it gives you the maximum comfort, plus it is odor resistant. There are 18 pairs of charming animal designs so she will have a lot of options to choose from. The design assures it will fit well and not slip off easily, so it suitable to wear every day.

27. Crocs X JB with Drew House

This bright signature yellow clog of Justin Beiber’s Drew House is a collaboration with Crocs. It comes with 8 Jibbitz charms that are so fun and cool. As usual, the design is as comfortable as other Crocs so you can definitely not go wrong with this.

Sports & Fun

28. Hydro Flask Water Bottle

Hydro Flask Water Bottle - Stainless Steel & Vacuum Insulated - Wide Mouth 2.0 with Leak Proof Flex...
  • Newly produced Hydro Flasks do not feature a registered trademark symbol next to the logo
  • Keeps beverages cold up to 24 hours and hot up to 12 hours when using the lid
  • BPA-free and phthalate-free; 18/8 food-grade stainless steel

You’ve probably seen this sleek colorful bottle everywhere, from the school, to the gym, and even in the office. Hydro Flask is vacuum-insulated and stainless steel, meaning cold drinks can remain cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks up to 6 hours regardless of the outside temperature. It is a bit pricey but it is definitely worth every penny.

29. Razor Pocket Retro Scooter Euro 24V

Razor Pocket Mod Miniature Euro 24V Electric Kids Ride On Retro Scooter, Speeds up to 15 MPH with 10...
  • Pocket Mod Scooter Dimensions: 50in L x 18in W x 30in H / Weighs: 59 lbs.
  • Vintage-Inspired Mod Design and High Performance Electric Motor Provide the Perfect Mix of Utility and Style
  • Tires: Large 12in Pneumatic Tires for Smooth Ride

The appearance of this motor bike is European inspired and can travel up to 15 miles per hour. It is made of steel frame so it very durable, the wheels are wide enough and do not easily wear or tear even if she drives on rough pavements. The motor is easy to use, it runs smoothly and quietly so you won’t have to be concerned about disturbing neighbors.

30. Nintendo Switch Lite

Nintendo Switch Lite - Coral - Switch
  • Compact, lightweight handheld system
  • Available in a range of fun colors
  • Online and local wireless multiplayer

If she wants to play on the go, and not having to worry about chunky consoles, this is the best gift to give her. This is compact and are available in amazing matte colors: gray, yellow, coral and turquoise. This is made for those who are handheld gamers. This is not meant to connect to TVs unlike the Switch version. It is one of the highly recommended handheld consoles by gamers based on reviews.

31. PlayMonster 5 Second Rule

PlayMonster 5 Second Rule
  • Pick a card, read the seemingly easy topic, then start the timer! Now with only 5 seconds to name 3 things that fit the topic, it doesn't seem so easy!
  • Players get tongue-tied, funny answers come flying out and laughter is sure to follow in this fast-paced party game
  • The twisted timer makes a fun "zoooooop!" Sound as the marbles race down

This game is very entertaing to play with family or friends. There are lots of unique, funny, questions that will excite everyone. You must answer a specific question to name, let’s say “3 Dog Breeds” within 5 seconds.  A game that will put you under time pressure that may force you to say fun, silly, ridiculous answers.

32. Harry Potter Book Special Edition Set

Sale
Harry Potter Complete Book Series Special Edition Boxed Set
  • Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
  • Rowling, J. K. (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)

Being a Harry Potter fan myself, I have always been mesmerized by how creative, how talented and magical the story is. This set has beautiful illustrations, it is not too heavy to carry around, and the price is totally worth it.

33. The Little Witch’s Book of Spells

Sale
The Teen Spell Book: Magick for Young Witches
  • Used Book in Good Condition
  • Wood, Jamie (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)

I wish I had this book when I was a teenager. There is nothing evil about this. The spells are kind and fun and just full of imagination. This book includes spells, rituals and potions and other useful information. Overall, it is full or friendly white magic that our girls will be interested in.

34. The Parent Trap Movie

I will never get tired of re-watching this movie! Twins separated after parents’ divorce. Years later at a summer camp, they discovered they are twins, and, well, better watch it with your daughter to see what happens next. It is a feel-good movie about family and love, fun and forgiveness. Family will always come first.

35. Amazon.com eGift Card

Some people think that by giving a gift card, it gives the impression that the giver is lazy or just did not put an effort to think what gift to give. There may be some cons here but here are some of the advantages of giving gift cards: convenience, the option to choose (the gift), and endless possibilities of what can be purchased. But remember, make sure to be generous so the person won’t have to add their own money to buy the gift.

Final Thoughts

It can be hard and pretty time consuming to find the right gift for your tween girl. It is important to consider gifts that are age appropriate and that will also help build relationships with family and friends. This is also the perfect opportunity to give educational stuff that will help broaden her mind and develop her creativity. Give her things that would inspire her and encourage her. It is also important that you get to know your daughter, what she likes and what her style is. Find her unique character and I sure she’ll like what you will give her.

Final Choice

I have selected my personal best choice in each category. Personally, I would recommend Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 as the best gift because the price is right, and all girls will surely love it. I also would choose Vans Sneakers because it is practical, and every girl needs a pair. I also recommend Hydro Flask Water Bottle because it is a very convenient and will keep them hydrated all day.


[1] Majumdar, Ananda. “ROLE OF PLAY IN CHILD DEVELOPMENT.”

[2] Herndon KJ, Bailey CS, Shewark EA, Denham SA, Bassett HH. Preschoolers’ emotion expression and regulation: relations with school adjustment. J Genet Psychol. 2013;174(5-6):642-663.

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Author

Vivian Perry

Vivian Perry

Mother of 3 kids. Enjoy reading parenting books and studied child care degree. Vivian loves to learn and write about parenting tips and help her kids to grow positively with grit mindset.

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