The All-Time Best Screen Free Gifts for Boys

It was high time I put all our tried and true and very best screen-free gifts for boys all in one place! These are items we have loved and used for years and years, or new items we have discovered and can’t wait to tell you about. There are ideas for every age, from toddler to teen. On this list you will you will find all the classics plus our new favorites that will keep your boys building, moving, playing and creating.

They are organized by “types” of boys, but all are gifts just about any kind of boy would love…lots of cross over here and great options to introduce them to something new! Each item is linked by title for quick and easy shopping. If you have any other suggestions, please add them in the comments for all of us to use!

Ready, set, screen free gifts! Let’s go!

More Gift Guides

If you’re looking for more gift ideas make sure to check out my other lists including the best gifts for teen boysthe best gifts and stocking stuffers for menthe best stocking stuffers for boys, the best gifts for teen girlsthe best gifts and stocking stuffers for womenthe best gifts for college kids and newlyweds, and the best gifts for missionaries. I love giving functional, meaningful, and simple gifts and hope these ideas help you out.

The all time best screen free gifts for boys

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

 THE BUILDERS

If you have a son who loves to build, these would make great gifts for him this year!

 

Picasso Tiles Racing Track

These are the building tiles every kid loves so much, but with these you can also create a racing track for your little Picasso cars. How cool is that? 30 Piece ($36).  80 Piece Set ($80). 100 Piece Set. ($86)

 Kit / App-Enabled Building and Coding STEM Learning Kit 

Learn to use blockly coding to program your robot to navigate obstacles, pick-up objects, control light and sound effects, add personality and more. Such a great gift option for a techy kid! ($80)

Wooden Sorting Stacking Rocks

Unlike the traditional building blocks, every block is a polyhedron, each different in size, color and weight, making stacking game more challenging so that kids can complete the building process in a whole new way. ($29)

Magtrax

The Customizable Magnetic Marble Run You Can Build on Any Wall. Such a cool option for hours of creative and building fun.  ($55+)

Mechanical Model -Creation

The unique sets of 4 individual miniature models for self-assembly for grown-ups and kids from 5 years to 80 and beyond. It’s made entirely from high-grade wooden materials. ($17)

Gravitrax Starter Set Marble Run

The ideal Christmas gift for creative, curious kids who love to build. Such a fun screen free gift. ($47)

Tubelox Deluxe Building Set

TubeLox is a life-sized construction toy that allows kids to use their creativity while designing and building their own play. With this toy, fabricate anything from sizeable sturdy structures, to usable cars, homes and rocket ships. Who doesn’t want their kids to play with toys that will awaken the brilliance in them? ($300)

Snap Circuits “Arcade”, Electronics Exploration Kit

Make dozens of cool electronic gadgets – all from one box! A safe and fun way to introduce children ages 8+ to the basics of electrical engineering! Build exciting projects and toys using the included colorful instruction book! Such a fun scree free gift for boys. ($50)

IQ Builder

If you have a child who loves to build, these new to us IQ Builders would make a great gift! So much room for imagination or the opportunity to build by following directions and creating something amazing. A great gift option! ($30)

Build A Bird Bungalow

Welcome Birds to the backyard with a colorful new home. So fun to both build and use! ($12)

Magnetic Building Set for Toddlers

Discover the joy of play time with rainbow colored magnetic shapes including, 3 Spheres, 3 Sticks, 2 Discs and magnetic accessories including bunny ears, flowers, cones, flower pots and elephant ears. ($37)

Magnetic Wooden Building Blocks

I wish I would have had these when all my boys were toddlers! These wooden blocks are magnetic which allows for lots of creative fun and great building time. Easy to bring along anywhere, this is an absolute winner of a gift. ($75)

Brackitz

You guys! These are the coolest new building toy! A bit like LEGOs but bigger and they create the coolest inventions. We just gave them a try and my kids of all ages love them. They also lend themselves to a ton of free play. Try these for your building lovers. ($49)

Magnatiles

These magnetic tiles are a parent and child favorite…easy to use, easy to build, endless creativity, and quick clean up. Wonderful for all ages ($75 for this 48 piece set).

Picasso Tiles

These tiles are similar to Magnatiles, but they are significantly cheaper. If you have been wanting to give them a try but can’t take the plunge, this is a less expensive option. ($50)

SQUIGZ

These fun little suction cup builders are great for every age and every surface. Use them in the bathtub, in the car, on the airplane…anywhere. Easy to keep track of and use, these will quickly become a building staple in your home ($55).

PlayMais WORLD Jungle Arts and Crafts Modeling Kit

PlayMais can be re-shaped, squeezed, cut and molded into practically any shape. By simply moistening the pieces with a little bit of water they will stick to each other and to many different surfaces. ($30)

Alphabots

These little Alphabots are so much fun for learning and play. They transform from letters you can use for education to little robots that are awesome for interactive time. ($30)

Marble Run

This incredibly sturdy, wooden marble run provides hours of entertainment as kids create their own marble tracks, race them, then rebuild something new. A great toy you can keep and use forever ($97).

Brain Flakes

If you have builders in your home that love to have creative play, you will love Brain Flakes…endless options and hours of play that work for any age. Incredibly affordable too! ($17)

Lego Sets

There is not a more classic or loved screen free toy for boys in your life than LEGOS! So many options from easy to hard and cheap to incredibly pricey. If your kids are anything like mine, the best sets give them something to play with after it is built. We like this set because it isn’t too expensive but builds a car, a motorcycle and comes with three guys. That is a winning set in our book. ($63)

Brick Boards

A modern play and display solution for your favorite minifig characters. It unique and such a fun way to display those favorite Lego sets. ($32)

                             
Do you have a son who loves video games, electronics, science or figuring out how things work? If so, Snap Circuits are an incredible toy he will absolutely enjoy. In one little box you can build over 300 designs including a doorbell, burglar alarm, and a radio…no tools required. Your kids will be having so much fun, they will hardly realize they are learning in the process. This makes a great family gift too! Learning about electricity and building has never been so easy and exciting! ($36)

OWI 14 in 1 Solar Robot

If you are ready to take building to the next level, this solar powered robot is just right for you. With 14 different options, there is something for the new builder and the advanced builder alike. A great family activity ($29)!

ZOOB Builders

These building balls and joints allow your little engineer to build something they can play with and move after the building is over. Great for young and older kids alike ($39)

Metal Earth Scorpion Laser Cut Model

If you have a teenager who still loves to build and doesn’t mind a challenge, this is a great gift or stocking stuffer! He will love spending quiet hours putting together this intricate scorpion, no glue required ($9).

Woodworking Kits

These woodworking kits are awesome for your little builders and allow them to create real toys they can play with later! So cool! ($40)

Tool Set

Real tools are just the coolest. My boys have loved having their own tool sets and we love having a few extra things handy. ($22)

Toys Stress Relief

If you have a boy who likes to quietly fidget, these small magnetic blocks provide hours of fun and imagination. ($11) WARNING!! THESE ARE LITTLE TINY MAGNETS AND DO NOT BELONG IN A HOME WITH KIDS UNDER 12!!!

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

THE SCIENCE LOVERS

Do you have a budding Einstein on your hands? If so, check out these gifts that will keep his mind working!

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Earth Science Kit

More than 15 experiment activities including dueling water tornadoes, building an erupting volcano, growing a crystal, two geologic dig kits, and more. ($30)

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Starter Rock Tumbler Kit

Rock tumbling is a hugely popular hobby for kids and adults! This starter rock tumbler makes it fun and easy to turn rough rocks into beautifully polished gemstones, thanks to its simple operation and durable design. ($40)

 

Crystal Growing Scdience Kit

I remember loving these when I was growing up, and now they have everything you need all in one box. A super fun experiment to do other the holidays! I love that this set comes with a place for your crystals to grow, no searching for a glass jar on Christmas morning! ($30)

Microscope

This entry level microscope has a high powered duo lens that allows kids their first real entry into science. It comes with lots of accessories and slides to look at and creates an awesome, curious past time for your little and not so little learners ($50).

Microscope

For a more advanced learner, this National Geographic Microscope is phenomenal with science experiments and slides to go along with it! Perfect for your budding Einstein. ($80)

Boy Craft Catapult Wars by Horizon Group USA

Catapult Wars

So much fun for boys of all ages! You build your own 2 catapults and shoot against each other for lots of science minded and rowdy fun. A great gift for any type of boy. ($13)

3D Pen

If you have a child who is really into STEM and technology a 3D pen will be a super exciting gift! Think 3D printing on a individual basis with your own pen. Hours of fun, if you don’t mind the investment. ($60)

Crayola Color Chemistry Set

This chemistry set is so much fun because it is all about color! The kit has everything you need for 15 experiments and then instructions for 50 more. Great for your budding scientist and perfect for that week between Christmas and New Year’s. Makes a great family gift too! ($29)

Break Open Your Own Geodes

There is just something about boys and rocks, they are the perfect pair. This box of geodes would be a great Christmas gift on its own, or open the box, include instructions and win for the coolest stocking stuffer of the year. ($19)

Dino Eggs

These are the coolest. You can dig your own dino out of an egg! We love these at our house and they would make a great stocking stuffer! 12 eggs for $20.

Catapult

Why not learn about science through a little destruction? Nothing a boy enjoys more. This catapult is sturdy and provides endless hours of fun and opportunities for imagination at all ages ($25).

Stomp Rockets

Stomp Rockets are so much fun for kids of all ages! I love the learning and play element to an awesome toy! This is a winner and definitely deserves a spot on this list of the best screen free gifts. ($20)

Tinker Crates

We are huge fans of Tinker Crates at our house. They allow me to be the creative, scientific mom I have always wanted to be without all the prep and work. These science boxes are absolutely amazing for boys ages 9 and up. The instructions are thorough and the product is superb. You can subscribe and get them on a regular delivery or purchase one box at a time. Love these at our house ($15-$30 per box).

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

THE OUTDOOR ENTHUSIAST

Is there anything better than watching a boy appreciate and enjoy nature? If you have one who can’t wait to get outdoors, these gift options will be perfect for him!

Pogo Stick

During quarantine, we tried our hands at a pogo stick and my kids loved it! They were bouncing up and down all day long and trying to beat each other’s record all spring and summer long. Makes a great, active gift! ($43)

What little boy hasn’t dreamed of shooting a bow and arrow? This is one of our all time favorite gifts! The bow is great quality and perfect for little and big archers. Works great for kids 6 and older and even adults have a fun time with it. Make sure you order the extra arrows as they seem to disappear quickly! This gift can be used when the weather is nice out or also works great in the snow. ($37)

Gel Blaster Surge Gun

The rechargeable Gel Blaster Surge shoots water based beads or “Gellets” that burst on impact. Think airsoft but with no pain, stain or cleanup. SUCH a great option that everyone loves. Great for the backyard! ($45) You’ll want to snag some extra gel ball ammo too.

Handmade Wood Slingshot

This is such a darling, fun, and inexpensive gift idea for a boy who loves exciting play! ($8+)

Slackline

Adults and kids of all ages will love adding this slackline kit to their outdoor fun. Perfect for an easy afternoon, a weekend camping or exciting as a balance challenge trainer, this outdoor toy will be used time and time again ($53).

Hammock

Hammocking is all the rage, and these easy to use, store, and hang hammocks are the perfect gift for an outdoor loving teen (or kid, or dad). Hammocks are the perfect place to camp, sleep, read and relax. If you have two trees, you can have your own personal space, and this hammock is a great one ($30).

Kid’s Kayak

You will never regret the purchase of one of these Kid’s Kayaks. They are so easy to paddle, store and transport, and perfect for kids who love to be on the water. They hold up to 130 pounds or you can go one size up for 150 pounds, and are a great addition to any beach or lake day. Such a fun Christmas surprise ($159).

Outdoor Throwing Bowling

This is such a fun game for all ages! You throw the the stick and try to rack up 50 points exactly. Simple to learn and easy to play, a great game for all ages and skill levels!  ($30)

PaddleSmash

If you love pickleball, this game looks so fun! As seen on Shark Tank, the fusion of Pickleball & Roundnet, PaddleSmash offers the ultimate outdoor games experience; An easy to learn bump, set, and smash game that Pickleball and yard games enthusiasts will love. Suitable for ages 14+. ($199)

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

THE ATHLETES

Many boys love nothing more than a good, physical game, and these gifts will keep them playing all year long. Make sure to check out our favorite outdoor games for more ideas.

SKLZ Pro Mini Basketball Hoop 

Do not waste your time with other over the door basketball hoops! Buy this one and you won’t ever need another. The backboard is strong and shatterproof and the hoop has a breakaway steel rim for slam dunks. Any age kid (or adult) can play on this and will love it. It can be mounted on the wall of a playroom or bedroom or can hang over a door. We have moved it around to the back of a chair for the baby to play on or on our highest door frame for the big boys. It will be loved forever. If you buy it, definitely grab the extra balls! ($30)

Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Water Jug with Straw

This Stanley mug is HUGE! It holds 64. oz and is perfect for those extra long sports practices for hot days. Thanks to the double-wall insulation, the Stanley Iceflow Flip Straw Water Jug keeps drinks cold for up to 14 hours and iced up to 2.5 days while keeping the exterior sweat-free. ($45)

Football Gloves

Slide these gloves on and immediately feel like a pro. Perfect for any size football player ($24).

Glow in The Dark Soccer Ball

See soccer games in a new light – the glow in the dark balls feature not 1, but 2 LED lights for up to 30 hours of evening play.  Perfect for your soccer lover. ($28)

Flag Football Set

Make backyard football safe and fun with this durable flag football set. These sets can last a long time and make for one of the best screen free gifts ($18).

Pickleball Equipment

Has your family given pickleball a try? It is the greatest game for the entire family to get in to…a mix of tennis and ping pong and just good fun all around. Grab the paddlesballs, and net and you can play just about anywhere! ($60)

Putting Green

Do you have a little golfer in your home who can’t wait for his next tee time? This putting green just might help shorten the winter months and keep his shot on par. Great for kids and adults alike ($35).

Spikeball

Spikeball is the perfect indoor/outdoor game. This portable, easy to play ball game will keep your kids occupied all year long while doing something that is crazy fun for the entire family. Great as a lawn or beach game or played in the basement during cold weather ($62). Best for kids 10 and older.

KUBB

If you need a new yard game that keeps things interesting and is easy and safe for all ages, this one is great! ($60)

Balance Board

If your fitness lover likes to keep things interesting, a balance board might be a fun addition to his home work out. Great core work and a little challenge too! ($64)

Silent Basketball

This ball is so cool! It’s the Perfect Basketball to work on your handles without making any noise at all. It’s perfect to use in houses and apartments. This ball dribbles great on carpet, hardwood, or any surface!

Wilson® Evolution® Indoor Basketball (EA

High Quality Basketball

If you have an athletic kid, nothing is better than a brand new, high quality basketball. This one is our favorite and I think you will love it too! ($65-$160)

Kan Jam

A bit like a fast paced ultimate frisbee for four, this fun and portable game is great for the backyard or  beach. This game is easy to play, portable, and keeps the whole family active.  We have LOVED ours! A great idea for a family who loves to be on the go ($40). Best for ages 8 and up.

BATTLECHIP BACKYARD GOLF

This is the coolest backyard game! A little bit of golf, a little big of cornhole and tons of fun for the whole family. If you are looking for a great group gift, this one would be perfect! Beware, it does take some skill…so it might frustrate young or inexperienced golfers 😉 ($40)

Fitness Jump Rope

One of the best ways to get in shape is jumping rope, and if you are young enough, you might think it is fun too! This gift works for all ages but especially great for boys wanting to stay in shape! ($6)

Pull Up Bar

As kids get older, Christmas gifts become harder and harder. This Pull Up bar fits on a door frame and is a great idea for a teenage boy who is looking to improve his strength! ($35)

Hookey

My kids are always looking for a good, indoor game in the winter and this is like darts only a lot safer. Perfect for a game room! ($17)

Bocce Ball

Bocce ball has been a long time favorite around here because is the perfect outdoor game for little and big ones alike. I love that you don’t need superior athletic ability to be a contender in this game. Fun for all ages! ($40) Try a set with soft Bocce Balls for younger kids.

Bow Net

If you have a soccer player in your family, these Bow Nets are incredible. Easy to set up quickly without tools, and it comes in multiple sizes for sturdy, portable soccer goals. Each goal fits into a small bag for simple carrying and storage too, so perfect if you play in community spaces. Depending on size cost is from ($138), but well worth it.

Soccer Goal

If you would prefer goals that stay up year round, we have loved these Forza Soccer goals. Easy to assemble and lightweight, they have had lots of playtime in our backyard! (comes in multiple sizes $105)

Soccer Trainer

Rounding out our soccer ideas, is this awesome soccer trainer. It is a great way for your soccer lovers to work on ball skills without a teammate. We have really enjoyed ours. ($15)

The mug with a hoop/goal/goal post/glove

Do you have a child who never wants sports to stop?  This is a great little gift! Keep the game going all day long with lots of different sport themes to choose from ($30).

Little Tikes Basketball Hoop

I am pretty sure we put a million hours in on this hoop. It works indoors and outdoors and is a blast for every age of little boy. ($36)

 Coaching Board

If you have an athlete in your home, this is a fun way for them to learn and teach. ($20)

 

Indoor Dart Board

Darts are such a fun indoor game and this one is sturdy enough to have fun with but safe enough not to damage everything in its path. A great family game! ($30)

Glow in The Dark Capture the Flag

Night games here we come! This set includes 25 light up game pieces, 12+ hours of replaceable batteries and 12 bonus game variations. ($50)

Table Tennis To Go

Another idea for screen free gifts is this set that transforms any table into a ping pong table. Such a brilliant idea to use indoors or outdoors on any surface. I love this idea especially for smaller spaces! ($41)

Ribbon Ninja

This is a super cool active game all about reflexes. You can make the playing field small or big depending on your space and how much you want to move, but it is fun for all ages! ($37)

Gymnastics Mats

This just might be the most versatile gift ever. Use it for gymnastics, wrestling or just rolling around in the basement on a cold winter day. ($30+)

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

THE ARTISTS

Do you have a budding Picasso in your home? Try these great gifts that will keep the creative juices flowing.

Large Super Hero 5D Diamond Painting Kits

My kids love art projects , this one is perfect for that Marvel fan. This kit is more advanced and is great quality. ($14)  The perfect addition is a diamond organizing kit. And here’s a beginner diamond art kit for your youngest artists.

Kwik Stix Solid Tempera Paint Pens

These things are incredible! Quick dry painting markers! You have to see it to believe it. ($19)

Watercolor Paint Set with a Refillable Water Brush Pen

Such a great, inexpensive option for your art lover!  ($7)

Elmer’s Squishies

Such a cool gift where you can help your child make their very own squishy toys! ($15)

Aquabeads Beginners Studio

Create, spray, flip, and they stay! Aquabeads is the ORIGINAL water-activated bead craft set and provide hours of quiet, creative entertainment. ($25)

5D Diamond Painting Kit

I saw these cool art projects on Brickyard Buffalo and could not wait to try! Kids could spend hours “painting” these stickers with small diamonds that come with the kit. Very cool for your art loving boy! ($11)

Pluffle

If you have a little creator or even a little mess pot, Pluffle is the best. It is easy to play with and mold and never dries out! The size also makes for an awesome stocking stuffer! ($22)

Paint by Sticker Book

This is the coolest new art discovery. Instead of color or paint by number, you paint by sticker and create really awesome animals in the process. This would be amazing for church, car rides, airplanes, waiting rooms or any spot where you need a little peace and quiet. Great stocking stuffer too. Works best for someone 5 and up ($9).

String Art

If you have a little art lover, this string art is a fun way to mix things up! ($17)

Loop De Doo

Girls aren’t the only ones who like making friendship bracelets and this Loop De Doo makes it really simple to create cool, twisted jewelry with plenty of boy colors! ($28)

Hey Clay

If you have a little sculptor on your hands, Hey Clay is a great way to keep their creative juices flowing! they can make these darling monsters and let them dry and harden or play with the clay over and over again! ($23)

Magic Doodle Mat

This is a dream come true…art that is creative and fun and doesn’t make a mess?? Sign me up! We are talking hours of cooperative play on this awesome invention. So much for all ages! ($26)

Whittling Set

If you have an outdoor lover who also enjoys creating, a whittling set might be a fun and creative gift! This is a classic, and just goes to show screen free gifts don’t have to be new to be exciting! ($40)

                                How to Draw 101 Animals

How To Draw Books

Do you have a budding artist at your house? If so, these books make drawing so much fun! They give simple steps to create crazy monsters and cute animals that keep your boys occupied for hours. Such an inexpensive, great gift for your creative child! ($5)

Toy Making Faces

More than just silly faces, kids can explore emotions through play with this fun set. ($26)

Rainbow Loom

Sometimes awesome products stick around forever and this is one of them. Your boys will love making these simple, crafty bracelets for themselves and all their friends. The price can’t be beat for hours and hours of creative fun. ($10)

African Safari ?

Doughsie Dough

I am so excited to introduce you to this amazing new imaginative toy! Doughsie Dough makes homemade play dough kits that cater to your little one’s imagination. With the perfect colors, tools, and extras to make play dough even more fun, these little kits will keep them quietly busy for hours. So many darling ones to choose from…safari, pirate, bugs, space, ocean…the possibilities are endless! ($10+)

Boogie Board Play and Trace

Boogie Board has stepped things up and added a learning and art component to its already awesome design. This will offer hours of quiet entertainment for your little one…perfect for car rides, church and waiting rooms…and electronic free! ($20)

Model Magic

Let your kids mold, shape and create without the crumbling mess or sticky hands…this is creative play that kids and parents love…lots of fun with very little mess. There are all kinds of colors and fun tools you can purchase to add to this great starter set ($13).

Doodle Crate 

Doodle Crate is an amazing resource to really spur your kid’s creativity. You can purchase a monthly subscription or just one crate at a time…each one comes with a complete art project your child will love completing. It allows them to explore their own creativity and artistic ability with all the materials and guidance they will need. An awesome gift for an art lover. They also have Kiwi and Koala Crates for younger artists ($10-$20).

Kinetic Sand

If you have a little one at home who will be so sad without sandbox play, this kinetic sand is the perfect gift. It allows for building and sensory fun, without the serious mess. It truly never dries out and kids of all ages can’t help but play when it is brought out. It comes in all kinds of fun colors with great molds too. A perfect creative gift ($19).

Boogie Board

Technically this is an electronic, but it doesn’t plug you in to anything. These cool boogie boards are like a modern chalkboard, perfect for spelling word practice, doodling in church, and artistic mock ups, plus they come clean with the touch of a button! ($17)

Super Slime Kit

Slime has captured the hearts of kids everywhere and taken Instagram by storm. This slime kit is a fun introduction to the crazy world with all kinds of mix ins, glitter, and scents, but all the supplies you will need! If you have someone who likes a little messy creativity, this is a great gift ($30).

Create Your Own Bouncy Balls

If you love toys that are not only products but things you can play with after, this is a great, inexpensive gift idea! ($12)

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

FOR THE MUSICIAN

Are you constantly hearing music every where you turn? Grab these musical gifts and keep that love alive.

VTech KidiStar DJ Mixer Black

Create custom sound effects and vocal tags to lay onto tracks, then save your samples; add light effects. What a great option for a music lover! ($54)

Ukulele

Ukuleles are a great instrument for a budding musician. If you think your child might like to add a little music to his life, this is a great starter option. Such a fun screen free gift to try. ($69).

Yoto Mini Player

This is the coolest for all your book or music loving kids! The rechargeable player is so simple to use, it allows your kids to listen to audiobooks or music on their own terms. Such a great way to raise book loving kids! ($70) Make sure to order some Yoto cards to get them started too.

BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke Microphone with Controllable LED Lights, Portable Handheld Karaoke Speaker Machine Christmas Birthday Home Party for Android/iPhone/PC or All Smartphone(Q78 Silver)

Karaoke Microphone

Technology keeps making things smaller and easier to use! This microphone uses bluetooth to connect to your computer or smartphone to play your favorite songs then projects your voice while you sing along to them. Such a fun, new toy for the whole family to enjoy. ($26)

Portable Drum Set

Am I the only one who isn’t interested in a full drum set without volume control? The answer is here with this electronic, portable drum set with volume control, the ability to record, foot pedals and all the bells and whistles your little musician is hoping for without the headache! ($160)

GECKO Kalimba 17 Keys Thumb Piano builts-in EVA high-performance protective box, tuning hammer and study instruction.

Thumb Piano 

These thumb pianos are so much fun for any kid who likes music. It is amazing what they can do. Such a great alternative when there is down time. ($37)

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

FOR THE CODERS

This may be riding the “screen free” claim, but coding toys are a great brain activity for lots of little electronic loving boys and can be a great option when looking for screen free gifts.

Mechanical Coding Robot

This mission-based, entry level robot is designed to inspire young engineers to learn about mechanical engineering principles and coding basics. Hours of fun and once your kid grasps the concept they’ll be able to make changes all on their own! ($23)

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

FOR THE RIDER

Razor Crazy Cart Shift - Blue, Electric Drifting Go Kart for Kids - 12V Powered Ride-On with Speed Switch and Simplified Drifting System, for Kids Ages 6 and Up

Razor Crazy Go Kart for Kids

This one is a splurge but will provide hours of outside fun which is always a win! ($223)

Electric Scooter 

This was our family gift last year and it has been SO AWESOME. It holds the charge so well, go nice and fast, and is easy and smooth to ride. We tried another brand that isn’t nearly as reliable or easy to use. Well worth the money as it also gave options to my kids to get themselves places when we weren’t around! ($499+)

Wave Board

If you have a kiddo who is into wheels, these wave boards are the coolest. The wheels glide just like you are on the water. Such a cool new toy! ($110)

Balance Bike

These bikes are the best! Once you can ride one of these you can go straight to two wheels. This bike is extremely  light weight at just 4 lbs making it so easy to control. ($65)

Mini-Micro Scooter

These 3 wheeled scooters are amazing! Their construction allows even the littlest riders to achieve speed and balance on this awesome toy. A bit pricey but well worth the smooth ride for years to come. ($89)

Razor Scooter 

This classic toy is the gift that keeps on giving. As soon as your little one can balance on two wheels it is a fabulous way to get around, and they will keep riding these bad boys into their teens, so they are a great investment! ($52)

Razor Groundforce Electric Go-Kart

This is a pricey gift for sure, but it is SO awesome. It goes up to 12 miles per hour for a lot of speedy fun. Boys will absolutely go crazy for it. ($468)

Green Machine

Such a fun ride for older kids who love to be out on the road still. They will love this awesome gift. Best for 8 and up. ($79-$299)

Mini Moto

This isn’t a cheap gift, but if you have a little kid who loves to ride, this would knock his socks off. A sturdy, well-made motorcycle great for younger boys…might make a great family gift ($290).

Mini Dirt Bike

This one, again, is a serious splurge, but if you are a riding family and you want to start them early, or are more of a one big “family gift” giver, I have seen this one in action and it is pretty amazing and fast! ($766)

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

FOR THE CAR LOVER

Boys of all ages love cars. Here are a couple ideas for the littlest and biggest car lovers.

Remote Control 4×4 Off Road RC Cars

Whether you’re steering on sand, concrete, or anything in between, these RC monster trucks for boys and girls are built to withstand rugged surfaces with expert grip, operation, and durability. ($190)

Portable Race Car Track

This movable track allows you to race your hot wheels and other cars just about anywhere. Create your own track in any space and clean it up in a snap. This is too fun for your car loving boys! Nobody will be begging of the iPad when they see this screen free gift on Christmas! It’s ready to play with right away. ($45)

PlayTape Road Tape for Toy Cars 

PlayTape is perfect for building their own world of roads, highways, and racetracks; Create instant roads anytime, anywhere. ($10)

Model Car Kit

For the boys who love putting cars together, this is an amazing model kit. A super fun screen free gift option. ($25).

Mega Ramp Racing Set

We have spent a lot of time trying to find sturdy, stable racing sets that work with hot wheels cars, and this is our favorite. It is made of wood, and takes tools to put it together, but it is fantastic. It allows for parked cars, races and slides all in one ($75).

Remote Control Cars

This remote control car is for the big boys who love to race, soup up, and replace parts on their car to optimize its speed and performance. This brand is tops and has replacement and upgraded parts to order and really customize your own car. Not cheap, but provides years of learning and fun ($150).

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

THE IMAGINERS

Scoop and Serve Pretend Ice Cream Counter

Such a fun toy for the little boys who love to play pretend and a fun one for the parents to join in on too! ($40)

Toy Cleaning Set

The perfect skill-building pretend cleaning set for playing house or even for your toddler to “help” you out while cleaning! ($35)

Pretend & Play Calculator Cash Register

Working solar-powered calculator and pretend cash register. Who doesn’t love playing store or figuring out money?  ($41)

Animals

These well crafted, sturdy animals will likely be forever toys in your home contributing to hours of free play! ($36)

Marvel Characters

If you little boy can’t wait to be a super hero, this pack of Marvel men will be the perfect gift…think hours of battles right on your family room floor. ($33)

Superhero Capes and Masks

If you have a little boy who loves pretend play, this set of reversible capes is perfect for a million imaginative hours. Such a great way to encourage fun, free play! ($30)

Air Fort

 An air fort could be a big game changer this winter! It inflates in 30 seconds with a household box fan and can be easily put away almost as quickly! A perfect way to mix up the mundane. ($50).

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

THE READERS

 Screen free gifts do not need to be loud or flashy to be well loved. If you’ve got a book lover at home, I’ve got plenty of lists to help you pick just the book to wrap up and put under the Christmas tree this year! Check out my series If You Liked This… Try That Part One and Part Two. I’ve also got 8 Books to Try if You Liked Ranger’s Apprentice and 21 Books Your Boys Will Love.

52 Modern Manners for Kids

This is the book every family needs and the gift that keeps on giving. It’s a stand up, flip book and offers 52 Modern Manners (social, emotional, physical, and relational) to work on each week along with the “why” behind each manny and role plays for practice. This is the one book every family needs in their home! Also makes a great family gift! ($22)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Four out of my four boys have loved the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series and they are always pumped about a new book in the series. We always do at least one book at Christmas and this one will be well loved! ($9)

Search and Find Book

We love this book so much! It has kept my 10 year old occupied for hours quietly for the last year. So many things to find and fun for young and old to do together! A great little extra on Christmas morning! ($8)

Big Life Journal

I have been doing this Big Life Journal with my 9 year old and we have absolutely loved it. We do it together once a week and it enforces a growth mindset and gives us the coolest moments to learn and discover together. Highly recommended as a gift that keeps on giving through connection and mind shifts that will be important for now and the future. ($26)

Melissa & Doug Seek and Find Sticker Pad

My boys have LOVED these kids of books. Perfect for when you need some downtime or quiet play. Seek and find sticker pad with animal scenes to color and stickers to match to hidden objects ($7) Another design HERE.

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

THE BOARD GAMERS

Nothing beats a new family board game for Christmas Break. If you’re looking for more board game ideas, I’ve got a whole list of games we love.

The Meme Game

This game is all the rage for families right now for good reason. It is hilarious, current and can be so funny. You will want to get your hands on this one right away! ($15)

Flipslide Game

Master the moves to beat the blocks – flip to find the color and slide to match the lights. Challenge yourself or play with friends. The only hard part is putting it down! ($16) 

Hands Full! – an Interactive Family Game

This contraption has over a million tangled combinations that your family can jump right into for interactive fun!  ($17)

ColorKu

This game is like Sudoku but with colors instead of numbers. So easy for kids of all ages to understand and have fun with. Another quiet brain exercise that is perfect for the long winter months ($45).

Shut the Box

This is a game we LOVE! It is so much fun and is great for 2 or more players, plus it helps with simple math. I think your  family will love it. ($26)

Set 

This is another great game that we love. It is great for 2 or more players, simple to carry around, and teacher great visual perception. An awesome addition to your game closet. ($13)

Grandpa Beck's Cover Your Assets Card Game | Fun Family-Friendly Set-Collecting Game | Enjoyed by Kids, Teens, and Adults | From the Creators of Skull King | Ideal for 2-8 Players Ages 7+

Cover Your Assets

I would say that hands down this is best game for an entire family…everyone loves it! Simple to play for those 7 and older and lots of rowdy, competitive fun. ($17)

Codenames

Codenames is one of the few games we all love to play! It is challenging and fun. Best for kids 10 and up. ($13)

Telestrations

Telestrations is probably our very favorite family game. It always end in loads of laughs and as soon as your kids can read they can play with a little help. It’s a good one! ($32)

 

Puzzles

Gnoming A Round

We LOVE this game! It is easy to play and easy to understand and is even fun with 2 players. It can be quick or you can play multiple rounds to make it longer. A little strategy but a lot of luck, so kids of all ages and adults can play together. This is a good one! ($17))

Portable Curling

It might sound crazy, but this is an awesome family game that works for all ages and abilities. It can be taken out and put away easily and provides hours of fun! Who knew curling was so fun? ($15)

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

QUIRKY BUT FUN

Electronic Piggy Bank

Easy to use and fun, this interactive coin bank is your kid’s first step toward financial independence. ($18)

Magnetic Rings Fidget Toy Set

For the boys who always need something fun going on, these fidget rings are a fun new twist!  ($9)

Walkie Talkies

Every boy should have a walkie talkie phase in their life. Such a fun, inexpensive present that will be used over and over again!  ($18)

 

Hover Shot Dart

This new toy is perfect for your little warrior! ($18)

Quarter Collecting Map 

I was shocked to discover how cool my boys thought collecting state quarters was! They were given these maps by their grandparents and have had the best time filling them up every time they find a new state quarter. It has created a fun way to bond as grandparents look for those hard to find quarters my boys need to complete their map. As an added bonus, it has helped with geography and counting money too! When the map is filled, they can deposit their quarters and start over again. ($26)

Nerf Gun Blaster

Nerf guns will forever be one of the best gifts ever for boys! We love this one…so easy to use and great for everyone. ($15)

Steel Cash Box

When my mom gave money to my son in this locking cash box he was in absolute heaven. He loves placing his money in his box, counting it often and locking it so no one can get to it. A great idea for a money lover ($27).

Drone

If you have been looking for an awesome drone that doesn’t break the bank, this is the one for you! What boy doesn’t love trying his hand at learning to fly? ($50)

Laser Tag Guns with Vests

What boy doesn’t love laser tag? This set allows for four people to play at a time and the laser target is on the gun, so no difficult strapping on or extra equipment to take care of. A great family gift that will provide hours of fun…your kids will LOVE this ($96).

The Ultimate Prank Kit

Every boy I have ever known thinks that pranks and jokes are just hilarious this is one of the best screen free gift ideas out there. This kit comes with about 20 different pranks from the classics to new, really good ones. This could be fun for hours and hours. ($40)

Meffert Project Genius Brain Teaser Puzzle, Assorted

Gear Ball

This Gear ball is a Rubik’s cube with even more challenge. If you have a son who loves a little brain bender, this will keep him busy for days! ($38)

Stilts

If you have a quirky kid who loves something different, what about these cool stilts? An upgrade from the tin can variety of our day, these offer a fun balance challenge that will keep them active for hours. ($60)

Snow Cone Machine

This might sound funny, but a snow cone machine has been a lot of fun for our family. It has been great in the summer and winter and my kids love mixing their own flavors. ($80)

Gumball Machine

It might not be the healthiest gift, but it is sure a fun one! What little boy doesn’t want a gumball machine? ($29)

Magnum Rubber Band Gun

My boys think these are the coolest! They might drive you a little crazy but lots of good old fashioned fun will be had with these well made toys. ($20)

Yo Yo

If you thought yo-yos were a thing of the past, think again! These toys have reinvented themselves and are challenging and fun for boys of all ages with a myriad of tricks to learn and perfect. Investing in a good one is worth it ($14).

Kanoodle

Kanoodle is awesome brain and spacial relations puzzle game that is perfect for car rides, waiting rooms, or quiet play at home. A screen free gift that keeps on giving and giving. ($10)

Scratch Off Travel Map

If you have a little one with Wanderlust or who loves to travel, these scratch off travel maps are the best! Every time you visit a new state or country, you scratch off the foil, revealing each place you have been. Such a fun way to keep track on an individual or family level. Makes an awesome family gift or great for a “trip reveal.” ($37)

Beyblades

My older boys were crazy about Beyblades when they were 5-10, and the toy is still going strong. These spinning top battle each other in a little arena and the last on e standing wins. A really fun toy for those competitive boys. ($39)

Little Tikes Slide

I am not sure how we would have survived Michigan winters or Arizona summers without an indoor slide. You will for sure get your money’s worth with this purchase! ($32)

Tangram Game

Tangrams designed for preschoolers! Tangoes Jr. features 100+ challenges where kids take geometric shapes and create the images shown on the challenge cards. Its large, unique game board snaps shut into a carrying case – making it great for taking it with you! ($30)

2 Pack LED Light Airplane

This throwing plane consists of the fuselage and two wings which is easy to install and disassemble, just insert the wing and tail to the right place, keep throwing upward or horizontally angle, you will be allowed to enjoy the interesting flying game immediately. ($8)

THE ALL TIME BEST SCREEN FREE GIFTS FOR BOYS:

THE EXPERIENCE SEEKER

If you don’t want to buy more stuff this year, think of gifting an experience: concert, escape room, top golf, amusement park pass, play tickets, ski pass, gym membership, movie gift cards, restaurant gift cards, gas cards, food cards, a date with mom or dad, plane tickets, sporting event tickets…anything they love!

I hope this simplifies your shopping this Christmas! What are your favorite screen free gifts? If I have left out a favorite, please leave it in the comments!!

* I am an Amazon Affiliate, so I receive a small amount when you purchase from my links, but I ONLY  recommend things we love. Thanks for supporting my writing and research through your purchases. I appreciate it more than you know!

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