gifts for 10 year olds
As children enter the double digits, their interests and preferences start to change. The innocent and playful years of childhood are slowly giving way to a more mature and independent mindset. This makes finding the perfect gift for a 10 year old all the more challenging. But fear not, we have done the research for you and compiled a list of the best gifts for 10 year olds that will not only bring joy but also foster their growth and development.
1. STEM Toys
At the age of 10, children are curious and eager to learn. Introducing them to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) at an early age can lay the foundation for a successful future. STEM toys come in various forms such as building kits, coding games, and science experiments. They not only provide hours of entertainment but also promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
2. Art Supplies
Art is a wonderful way for children to express themselves and tap into their imagination. For a 10 year old, a set of high-quality art supplies can be the perfect gift. From sketching pencils to watercolor paints, there are endless options to choose from. Consider their interests and let them explore their artistic side with a variety of mediums.
3. Board Games
Board games are a timeless gift that promotes social interaction and strategic thinking. There are numerous options available for 10 year olds, from classic games like Monopoly and Scrabble to newer ones like Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride. Not only will they have fun playing with family and friends, but they will also learn important skills like decision making, patience, and teamwork.
4. Outdoor Games
With the rise of technology, children are spending more time indoors than ever before. Encouraging them to go outside and play is crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Outdoor games like frisbee, badminton, and cornhole are fun and active ways to keep children engaged. They also promote healthy habits and help develop gross motor skills.
5. Books
Books are the gateway to a whole new world of imagination and knowledge. At the age of 10, children are ready to explore different genres and expand their reading skills. Consider their interests and choose books that will captivate their attention. From mysteries to fantasy to non-fiction, there are endless options available.
6. Musical Instruments
Learning to play a musical instrument not only provides a creative outlet but also has numerous benefits such as improved memory, coordination, and concentration. A 10 year old may be ready to take on a more challenging instrument like the guitar, drums, or piano. Alternatively, you can also opt for smaller instruments like the ukulele or harmonica.
7. Personalized Gifts
A personalized gift adds a special touch and makes the recipient feel extra special. For a 10 year old, consider getting them a personalized item like a backpack, water bottle, or journal. You can also opt for personalized jewelry, room decor, or clothing. They will not only appreciate the thought put into the gift but also feel a sense of ownership and pride.
8. Science Kits
For the budding scientist, a science kit is the perfect gift. These kits come with all the necessary materials and instructions to conduct fun and educational experiments at home. They cover various topics such as chemistry, physics, and biology, and are a great way to spark a child’s interest in science.
9. Sports Equipment
If the 10 year old in your life is a sports enthusiast, consider getting them a piece of sports equipment. It could be a new soccer ball, basketball, or a set of golf clubs. Not only will they be excited to receive a gift related to their favorite sport, but it will also encourage them to stay active and hone their skills.
10. DIY Kits
DIY (Do-It-Yourself) kits are a great way to keep children engaged and entertained. They come with all the necessary materials and instructions to create something from scratch. From making their own lip balm to building a robot, there are endless options to choose from. These kits not only promote creativity but also teach children valuable skills like following instructions and problem-solving.
11. Virtual Reality Headset
Technology has advanced to a point where virtual reality (VR) headsets are now accessible and affordable. For a 10 year old who loves to play video games, a VR headset can be an exciting gift. It allows them to immerse themselves in a virtual world and experience things in a whole new way. Just make sure to choose games and experiences that are age-appropriate.
12. Coding Toys
In today’s digital age, coding is a highly sought-after skill. Introducing children to coding at a young age can open up a world of opportunities for them in the future. There are numerous coding toys and games available for 10 year olds that teach them the basics of coding in a fun and interactive way.
13. Subscription Boxes
Subscription boxes are the gift that keeps on giving. There are many options available specifically for children, from educational boxes to craft boxes to snack boxes. Each month, they will receive a new box with different items and activities to keep them engaged and entertained.
14. Camera
A camera is a great gift for a 10 year old who loves to capture and document their memories. It could be a basic point-and-shoot camera or a more advanced instant camera. Not only will they have fun taking pictures, but they will also improve their photography skills and learn to appreciate the art of capturing a moment.
15. Gardening Kit
For the green-thumbed 10 year old, a gardening kit can be the perfect gift. It comes with everything they need to start their own mini-garden at home. From seeds to soil to tools, they will have fun learning about plants and watching them grow. It also instills a sense of responsibility and patience in children.
16. Journal
A journal is a great gift for a 10 year old who loves to write or express themselves. It could be a blank journal for them to fill with their thoughts and ideas, or a guided journal with prompts to help them explore their emotions and feelings. It can be a safe space for them to reflect and be creative.
17. Cooking/Baking Set
For the aspiring chef, a cooking or baking set can be a fun and educational gift. It could be a set of utensils, a cookbook, or even a cooking class. Not only will they have fun creating delicious dishes, but they will also learn important skills like following instructions, measuring, and kitchen safety.
18. Smartwatch
A smartwatch is a trendy and useful gift for a 10 year old. It not only tells time but also tracks fitness, sets reminders, and even has games. It can also be connected to a parent’s phone for safety and communication purposes. Just make sure to choose a kid-friendly and age-appropriate option.
19. Charity Donation
Teaching children the value of giving back at a young age is important. Consider making a donation to a charity of their choice in their name as a gift. It not only helps those in need but also instills a sense of empathy and gratitude in children.
20. Experience Gifts
Sometimes the best gifts are not material things but experiences. Consider giving the 10 year old in your life an experience gift like a day at the amusement park, a trip to the zoo, or a class to learn a new skill. These gifts create lasting memories and allow children to try new things and have fun.
In conclusion, finding the perfect gift for a 10 year old may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With our list of 20 gift ideas, you are sure to find something that will bring a smile to their face and foster their growth and development. Remember to consider their interests and personality, and most importantly, have fun watching them enjoy their new gift.
how to block calls on iphone
In today’s digital age, smartphones have become an essential part of our lives. From communication to entertainment, we rely on our iPhones for almost everything. However, with the convenience of having a smartphone comes the annoyance of unwanted phone calls. Whether it’s telemarketers, scammers, or even that one person you just don’t want to talk to, receiving unwanted calls can be frustrating and disruptive. Fortunately, iPhone users have the option to block calls and regain control over their phone. In this article, we will discuss how to block calls on an iPhone and the various options available to do so.
Before we dive into the different methods of blocking calls on an iPhone, let’s first understand why it’s necessary. Unwanted calls not only disrupt our daily routine but can also lead to potential scams and frauds. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), there were over 4.5 million reports of unwanted calls in 2020, making it the number one complaint received by the agency. These calls not only waste our time but can also be a threat to our privacy and security. Therefore, knowing how to block calls on an iPhone is crucial in protecting ourselves from these unwanted and potentially harmful calls.
There are several ways to block calls on an iPhone, and the method you choose will depend on your preference and the version of iOS you are using. Let’s start with the most basic and commonly used method – blocking individual numbers.
Blocking individual numbers on an iPhone is a straightforward process. First, open the Phone app and go to the “Recents” tab. Then, find the number you want to block and tap on the “i” icon next to it. This will take you to the contact’s information page. Scroll down to the bottom and tap on “Block this Caller.” A pop-up will appear, asking for confirmation. Tap on “Block Contact” to finalize the process. This will block all calls and messages from the selected number.
If you are using an older version of iOS, the process may be slightly different. Instead of tapping on the “i” icon, you need to tap on the small “i” next to the number in your recent calls list. This will take you to a similar contact information page, where you can find the “Block this Caller” option. However, if you are using iOS 13 or later, you can also block a number directly from the Messages app. Simply open the message from the unwanted number, tap on the “i” icon, and select “Block this Caller.”
Now, what if you want to block a number that is not in your recent calls or messages list? In such cases, you can still block the number by adding it to your blocked list manually. To do this, go to the “Settings” app on your iPhone and tap on “Phone.” Then, select “Blocked Contacts” and tap on “Add New.” You can then enter the number you want to block manually or select it from your contacts list. This method is helpful if you receive a call from an unknown number, and you want to block it without adding it to your contacts.
Blocking individual numbers is an effective way to stop receiving calls from specific people. However, what if you want to block all calls from unknown numbers or numbers that are not in your contacts? This is where the “Silence Unknown Callers” feature comes in. This feature was introduced in iOS 13 and is available in all later versions. When this feature is enabled, your iPhone will automatically silence calls from unknown numbers and send them straight to voicemail. This means you won’t even receive a notification for these calls, allowing you to avoid unwanted interruptions.
To enable this feature, go to the “Settings” app and tap on “Phone.” Then, toggle on the “Silence Unknown Callers” option. However, keep in mind that this feature may also block calls from legitimate numbers that are not in your contacts, such as calls from businesses or doctors’ offices. Therefore, it’s essential to review your “Recent” calls list frequently to make sure you are not missing any important calls.
Apart from individual numbers, there are times when you may want to block calls from an entire area code or a specific country code. This is where call blocking apps come in handy. There are many third-party apps available on the App Store that can help you block calls from specific area codes or countries. These apps work by maintaining a database of blocked numbers and automatically blocking any calls coming from those numbers. Some popular call blocking apps for iPhones include Truecaller, Hiya, and Nomorobo.
Another useful feature that can help you block calls on your iPhone is the “Do Not Disturb” mode. This mode silences all calls, messages, and notifications, allowing you to have some uninterrupted time. However, you can also customize this mode to allow calls from specific people or numbers. To do this, go to the “Settings” app and tap on “Do Not Disturb.” Then, select “Allow Calls From” and choose the option that suits you best. You can either allow calls from “Favorites,” “Recent Calls,” or “Contacts.” You can also create a custom list of contacts that will be able to reach you even when the “Do Not Disturb” mode is enabled.
In addition to blocking individual calls, you can also block specific types of calls on your iPhone. In iOS 14, Apple introduced a new feature called “Silence Unknown Senders,” which blocks all messages from unknown numbers. This feature works similarly to “Silence Unknown Callers” and sends all messages from unknown numbers to a separate “Unknown Senders” folder in the Messages app. This way, you won’t receive any notifications for these messages, and you can review them later if needed.
To enable this feature, go to the “Settings” app and tap on “Messages.” Then, toggle on the “Filter Unknown Senders” option. Keep in mind that this feature will only work for iMessages and not for regular SMS messages.
Apart from unwanted calls and messages, you may also want to block FaceTime calls from specific people. To do this, go to the “Settings” app and tap on “FaceTime.” Then, select “Blocked Contacts” and tap on “Add New.” You can then enter the contact’s name or number you want to block. This will prevent them from calling you on FaceTime.
In conclusion, receiving unwanted calls on your iPhone can be a nuisance, but fortunately, there are several options available to block these calls. Whether you want to block individual numbers or all unknown numbers, the methods mentioned above can help you regain control over your phone. Additionally, it’s essential to be cautious when receiving calls from unknown numbers and avoid giving out personal information. With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy a peaceful and uninterrupted iPhone experience.