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On the surface, teens might seem like an easy group to shop for during the holiday season. I have four teens to get gifts for - and I can think of hundreds of things they like, but most of those ideas center around things they already have enough of; electronics, makeup products, and trendy clothing brands. Electronic items are often at the top of their lists. However, many kids already spend a tremendous amount of time on TikTok and YouTube or gaming. These things we know logically are not the building blocks for strong mental health and life skills, yet laptops, gaming, and new cell phones often become a default for teen gift-giving.
The fact is, other than cost, the latest cell phones or game consoles are pretty quick and easy buys. But let’s remember, for some teens constant gaming can be isolating – and YouTube and TikTok often create scenarios where teens question their worth, creating a culture of comparison – things that can chip away at a teen's outlook on life, motivation, and mental health. On the other hand, electronic gaming and social media are a huge part of teen’s interaction with one another – there’s no denying that it is the era they live in.
Promoting balance in the lives of any teen you love and care for can be one of the greatest gifts you can give. So here are a few of our top gift-giving suggestions for the teens you love - things that we think inspire balance and maintain good mental health.
OUR TOP SUGGESTION - Experiences: For many of us, our home’s closets, drawers, cabinets, and under-bed areas are already stuffed with items we use a few times and forget about. So rather than another item that will possibly be discarded and forgotten within days, opt for at least one experience gift that offers a unique activity or adventure instead of tangible items. Bonus points for the fact that it gets you doing something together, creating cherished memories! Ideas you might find locally; rock climbing wall, magic show, zip lining/ropes course, miniature golf, go-carting, spa day/pedicures, cooking class, trying a new restaurant (especially a cuisine that interests your teen), or some type of art experience like pottery painting or a DIY crafting class.
Beyond these local ideas, spending holiday money toward a vacation or road trip might be another option in line with thinking “experiences over things”. For a trip not happening over the holiday itself, include a travel book about the place you will go or include an item needed for the trip as a gift reminder of the upcoming plans. An example might be a scarf or gloves if going somewhere cold, or the opposite – a new beach towel for a trip somewhere warm and beachy.
2. Journal or Planner Notebook: A beautifully designed journal for writing thoughts, feelings, or gratitude can be a wonderful way to encourage self-reflection – or opt for a planner that has space for organization plus reflection.
3. Mindfulness Coloring Books with Special Markers or Colored Pencils: These can provide a creative outlet while promoting relaxation and reducing stress. There are so many that include inspirational quotes.
4. Stress-Relief Toys: Fidget spinners, stress balls, or sensory squish toys can be helpful for managing anxiety in a fun way – plus make great stocking stuffers.
5. Art Supplies: High-quality art supplies for painting, drawing, or crafting can encourage creative expression.
6. Fitness Tracker: A device to track physical activity can help promote mental wellness through exercise – encouraging your teen to get out and stay active.
7. Inspirational Wall Art: Uplifting quotes or affirmations can help create a positive space and contribute to mental well-being. Choose an affirmation that might mean a lot to your teen and add it to a new mirror for their room. (see below)
8. Mini Room Make Over Items: To go along with the above idea with uplifting quotes or affirmation wall art, providing other items for a room “spruce up” can help teens create a calming space where they feel their best. Ideas might be new blankets or bedding, glow lights or string lights, fluffy throw pillows, or unique storage baskets and bins they’ll look forward to using for organization.
Pass on your best teen gift-giving ideas – leave your unique idea in the comments below!
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