Shopping for kids gets harder as they get older. In so many different ways. They either become more expensive or harder to buy for in general because you don’t feel ‘down with the kids’ any more. If you’re shopping for a present for a teenager, whether it’s your own kids, a niece, nephew, or family friend, it can be difficult to know exactly where to start. But there are a number of gift ideas that tend to work well, whatever the occasion. I’m hoping to provide just a little inspiration and maybe it’ll be exactly what you’re looking for, or it might just strike up that idea you were hoping would come right at you.
New Music
If you happen to know a little bit about the teenager in question’s taste in music, then you might be able to pick out a music-related gift. Is there a famous artist they’re fond of? What about film music? The recently released Wicked movie comes with its own soundtrack, and there are recent releases from Avril Lavigne, Chappell Roan, and everyone in between to consider, too.
Getting a physical gift you can hand over is always worthwhile. As such, memorabilia, or CDs, might make an excellent choice. Just make sure that the person you’re buying for has the hardware necessary to actually play the music. Vinyls seem to be all the rage at the moment, don’t they? I saw so many tweens and teens getting vinyls for Christmas, and vinyl players seem to be very ‘in’ at the moment. If they’re anything like the vinyls of years gone by they’ll hold their value well, too!
Instant Camera
Nowadays, everyone carries around a camera with them wherever they go, usually built into their smartphone. But there’s still a place for instant cameras, which provide a fun way to capture memories without the focus-sapping distraction that comes with a modern smartphone.
Whether you’re shopping for a budding photographer, or someone who simply might like to capture special moments with friends, an instant camera like the Fujifilm Instax is a great way to get started. The best of them evoke the
cameras of yesteryear, in both their design and the way that they’re intended to be used.
Trendy Clothing or Accessories
Everyone needs clothes – including teenagers. To find the right gift, you’ll need to be in touch with the person’s style, which might mean paying attention to what they like to wear. But you might also take them in a new direction by buying something completely out there. Reliable gifts include cosy hoodies, t-shirts with graphic designs, and backpacks. You might pay attention to what’s on-trend with Generation Z, too.
DIY Craft Kit or Hobby Set
If you want to inspire a new creative pursuit, or take advantage of an existing one, then the right craft kit or hobby set might be just what’s called for. Look for something that will encourage them to try something new, especially if you don’t have much of an idea about their existing hobbies. Of course, you can always get a little bit more information from people closer to the teenager – like their parents. In recent times, colouring books for adults have enjoyed considerable popularity – largely because of their therapeutic benefits.
There are things like wood-whittling kits if they’re an outdoorsy type, or how about a decent telescope for the stargazers?
Tech Gadgets or Accessories
There are certain kinds of gadgets that might be useful to just about everyone, including teenagers. Phone chargers, spare batteries, and accessories for gaming systems might all be welcome. If you’re shopping for a teenager who spends a lot of time broadcasting from a phone, then a suitable ring light might be appreciated.
I always try and think of things that aren’t super dispensible, last more than 5 minutes and are unlikely to go in the bin. Thoughtful gifts go a long way.
My eldest is now not far off being a teenager and he’s already hard to buy for – although he’d be happy with anything to be fair! What else would you suggest? Any cracking ideas that have gone down well with the teens?