Holiday Gifts for Teenagers

I’m not sure what’s worse… hanging Christmas lights or buying holiday gifts for your teenager. Both are nearly impossible tasks and it’s unlikely that you will ever get it done perfectly. However, after spending three hours twisting each little light to discover the one that is responsible for igniting the rest of the strand – you feel triumphant! The same can be said for finding that one, perfect gift that provides a fleeting, but clearly present smile on the face of your 16 year-old-daughter who hasn’t so much as grinned since she was 12. It’s a feeling of victory!
Finding that perfect gift for your fickle teenager is no easy task. It’s difficult for parents to have the confidence to shop for someone who’s convinced you are an idiot. Still, there are some gift ideas that will please even the most hormone induced adolescent.

Big Ticket Items

If you’re willing to lay down some bucks, great big ticket gift ideas can involve electronics. These include IPods, Digital Cameras, Laptops and Cellphones. For those of us who are in the dark ages when it comes to electronics, ask you teen to tell you specific information including brand, memory capacity, and special features.
Other great Big Ticket items include Stock or CDs. This is great alternative to cash (which we both know will be spent the moment the stores open on December 26). Stock or CDs will offer kids a head start in their personal financial planning and investments.

Medium Price Gift Ideas ($50 – $250)

I know many of you hate to succumb to the convenience of the gift card. It’s not personal and frankly it’s the easy way out for parents of teens. However, I have some good news for you… THEY DON’T CARE!! The truth is that they are going to be more thrilled to select something from the trendy store in the mall versus wearing the hand-knit sweater that you spent the last six months making. Look at it this way, gift cards are an award for parents who are enduring the hardships that come with raising teenagers.
However, for those of you who insist on doing something a little more creative, I suggest tickets to concerts or video games.

Easy on the Pocket Book ideas (Under $50)

I found a number of inexpensive gift ideas that would be perfect for your pimple-faced friend. These include self-help or inspirational books, picture frames or desk accessories. Other options are an alarm clock, cell phone case or movie tickets
Speaking of Movie Tickets, grab one for yourself as well. One-on-one time with your teen is probably the most important gift you can give. Even if she rolls her eyes and sighs a lot, give her your attention this holiday season.
Although Santa has a harder time finding the perfect gift for your teenager, you can still make sure that the holidays remain memorable (in ways other than the new dragon tattoo your seventeen-year-old is sporting).
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Christmas Gift Ideas for Teenagers

(Ask your kids to circle their top three options!)
Gift Cards (ask them to specifically what stores they prefer)
Computers and Accessories
Cell Phone
CDs
DVDs
Digital Camera and Accessories
Magazine Subscriptions
Jewelry
Sporting Equipment
Health Club Membership
Sports Apparel
Designer Purses/Back packs
Concert Tickets
Video Games
Books