I like the colored pens idea and perhaps you could include a large pad of drawing paper so the child could create and create. Both boys and girls like to doodle.

Pre-teen boys and girls also like simple craft kits, such as wooden birdhouses, leather crafts, rug hooking, etc. Quilts/blankets are good for all ages.

very nice ideas, i like the pillowcase idea and u can make them with secret pockets.

love the secret pocket idea.
maybe some people on the board with sons or grandsons would be able to anser the question for you as to what they would want.

At a book store there are Zen doodle books for drawing and drawing books. Type of pens are suggested in the zen books. Zen Doodle name is trademarked but other names in the genre are available and not so strict a discipline.

I use the zen books to inspire freemotion quilting just never thought about children. Thank you one and all for the ideas . I have a selection to use . Just need plenty of time.

that's a great idea for my soon to be 25 yo son. something to keep people busy when they
don't know what to do with themselves.

Hey maybe I should get one for myself