8 yr old boys love building things. I made a Lego quilt for one grandson. Real eassy use bricks 2"x5 or 6". Lots of red. Original legos red, now lots of different colors.
Anything with wheels is always good. Star Wars. Skateboarding. Wild natural animals - bears, penguins, moose etc. Whales. Music
Good luck & Thank you for giving back to those who need