The best toys and gifts for eight-year-olds, tested by eight-year-olds

From science kits to karaoke machines, shower sets to brain-boosting games, here are the presents our mini testers loved the most

Eight is such a wonderful age. Kids are old enough to have their own interests and hobbies, but still young enough to get swept up in play and be absorbed for hours if you find the right toy for them.

By eight, children’s interests and skills are taking shape. They’re more confident readers, more strategic thinkers and curious about how things work. And while they think they’re extremely grown up, eight-year-olds still need plenty of time to play for their overall wellbeing.