Gift Guide for Kids From Sixteen to Eighteen Years
6016 - 18 Years
These years mark the end of childhood. In many ways, a teen of this age is a young adult, and the right gift can be an important acknowledgement of this passage. While she still needs the acceptance of family and friends, she doesn't crave it to the same degree that she used to. She'll be seeking greater independence and autonomy as she explores the possibilities that lie ahead. One of the biggest milestones: She (or a friend) now has the legal ability to drive, which brings a new sense of freedom and adventure.
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Clothing & Accessories
Think "range" with these gifts. They're wearing them at home now, but soon they may need more adult-type items. Try to strike the older teen/young adult balance. Above all, though, be aware of your teen's personal style. When in doubt, go for a gift certificate.
Backpack
A satchel bag is a good option now, too.Bathrobe and slippers
Natural fibers are best.Belt
Notice the color of her favorite shoes, then buy a belt to match.Caps
A fitted cap is more special.Coat
One with removable layers can be multi-purpose.Hair clips
A large tortoise-colored clip makes a versatile choice.Hats
For summer or winter; look for a special-occasion hat.Leather jacket
Army-Navy stores have good-quality merchandise.Glove and scarf set
Choose a long scarf for girls, a short one for boys.Purse
Consider getting one that's big enough to double as an overnight bag.Shirts
Mesh, denim or 100% combed cotton; find out what he likes.Sunglasses with 100% UV protection
Pick a store with a wide selection, and buy a gift certificate.Sweater
Make sure to get one that's washable; "dry clean only" is a pain at this age.Sweatshirt
You only need to know three fabrics: cotton, cotton and cotton.T-shirts
Look for those that are pre-shrunk.Wallet
Even if he doesn't have much to go into it, it'll still be his.Watch
Instead of one expensive one, consider getting two sporty models so she'll have some variety.Educational Gifts
Good for kids this age to take to college or to help them identify possible careers.
Almanac
They also make almanacs for business, art, history, etc.Atlas
Some CD-ROM manufacturers offer upgrades at a discount.Binoculars
Models with a zoom feature provide an extra dimension.Book-of-the-month club membership
Consider buying a multi-year membership or renewing it the following year.Compass
Consider one that straps onto a backpack.Dictionary
An electronic dictionary can be unabridged and easy to tote around.Globe
Be sure to get one that is up-to-date; it's a shifting world out there.Magazine subscription
A weekly is more fun for this age group.Microscope
Spend more on the optics, less on the body.Personalized stationery
This is a great way to welcome him into young adulthood.Scientific calculator
This can go off to college with her before too long.Telescope
A star chart is an excellent companion gift.Thesaurus
These are often sold in sets with a dictionary and an almanac.Electronics
Nothing's too sophisticated for an older teen. They may know more about electronics than you do at this stage of the game.
Alarm clock
A small, battery-powered model is perfect for traveling.Camera
Look for one with a timer or remote control.Car stereo or CD player
Some portable CD players can hook into car systems.Cellular phone
Many service providers offer free calls nights and weekends.Clock radio
A dual-alarm function can help him make it to class on time.Electronic hand-held games
Make sure the screen is bright enough to withstand direct sunlight.Electronic organizer
This is a truly adult-type gift.Flashlight
Look for one with a metal or shockproof plastic casing.Global Positioning System
Among the "coolest" things you can buy.Joystick (for video systems)
Make sure the manufacturer's help line is toll-free.Keyboard synthesizer
Portability is a good feature.Remote-control plane
Include extra propellers; there's a learning curve with these planes.Stereo
If you're getting a component set, spend most of the money on speakers.Tape player/recorder
A wind buffer is a good feature that helps even out the sound.Telephone
Look for a cordless model with a range of at least 250 feet.Video games
Some kids are absolute aficionados; make sure you buy the latest version of the game.Walkman or Discman
Headphones that cover the ear provide excellent sound.For their Room
Teenagers will be looking ahead toward getting out on their own in a year or two, so get them something that would fit into a single, young adult's place.
Beanbag chair
The thicker the outer layer, the longer the bag will last.Bookcase
One that requires assembly is often less expensive.Comforter
Consider getting the matching shams and bedskirt for a complete look.Computer table
A model with lockable wheels is handy.Desk
An L-shaped model gives more room to spread things out.Dresser
Buy with her next residence in mind.Framed posters
Some stores let you frame it yourself for less money.Lamp
Paper shades provide an elegant touch.Lava lamp
Look for one with an automatic shutoff mechanism or timer switch.Mirror
These come in shapes other than round and square.Sheet set
Introduce them to cotton sheets that have a 250-plus thread count.Vanity table
Make sure there are extra lights.Health & Beauty
While they may be into some experimentation, for the most part, these kids want the things that improve their confidence level. Ask a friend or relative what he likes so you'll have an idea of what type of cologne he might actually wear.
Aftershave or shaving lotion
Buy a gift set with a compatible cologne.Electric razor
Consider a wet/dry model.Gift certificate for makeover
This is a fun, grown-up thing to do.Gift certificate for manicure and pedicure
Even kids are into pampering.Makeup bag
Consider a clear material so she can see what's inside.Perfume atomizer
This can be a family heirloom.Perfume/cologne
Unisex fragrances are increasingly popular.Scented soaps
Aromatherapy fragrances will help her relax after a hard day.Set of makeup brushes
These wear out sooner than you might think. She'll appreciate having a few on hand.Monogrammed shaving kit
One with several inner pockets will help him keep his toiletries sorted.Specialty lotions, shampoos, masks and powders
Kids this age have been known to be concerned about their looks.Hobbies
Kids want to feel smart, so even if they're just beginning a hobby, avoid gifts that are overly simple.
Art materials
Making pottery can be a rewarding experience.Astronomy kit
Charting light shifts and star movement can help him with science classes.Collecting kits
Such as stamps or coins. Proof sets from her birth year are a good option.Journal
Try a leather-bound option, and include a good pen.Model kit
Such as an airplane, boat or helicopter. Include the glue and other necessary accessories.Stationery and fun writing tools
Personalize the stationery.Keepsakes
Kids want to feel smart, so even if they're just beginning a hobby, avoid gifts that are overly simple.
Autographed balls
You can stalk a celebrity yourself, or buy these at specialty shops.Jewelry
Family heirlooms are perfect.Jewelry box
Choose a medium-size or large one now to accommodate her growing collection.Photo album
Spring for the acid-free paper for a special gift. Start the album by including a picture of you and her.Picture frames
Engraved. Frames that hold multiple pictures are fun.Quilt
Many can be personalized. Several family members might pitch in to make one.Trading card or photo
Not only will these be cherished, they may appreciate in value, too.Multimedia & Music
Taste -- especially in music -- is highly personal at this point. You may want to go out on a limb to introduce them to a new artist, but you might be better off with that old stand-by: the gift certificate.
CDs and cassettes
Toss in a brick of blank cassettes when giving CDs.Computer
If college is in her future, consider a laptop.Computer accessories
An ergonomically correct keyboard looks cool and reduces the chance of getting repetitive-stress injuries.Digital camera
Saves money on developing costs because she can view her shots moments after snapping the picture.Instruments
Such as a drum, guitar or keyboard. Some guitar manufacturers offer models small enough to cart around easily.Software
Dictionary and thesaurus programs are life-savers.Tape player/recorder
Microcassette recorders help capture class notes.Videos and DVDs
These will give her and her friends hours of fun.Sports & Fitness
Lean toward grown-up models and equipment because these kids are essentially young adults.
Balls
Basketball, baseball or soccer. Classic brands exist, but don't assume the ones you liked will be the ones he likes.Bicycle
Consider a bike rack for her car.Camping equipment
Give a first-aid kit to go along with the gift.Goals
For basketball or hockey. An adjustable-height basketball rim with a breakaway feature will let him fill the void left by Michael Jordan, if only for the afternoon.Golf clubs
Whether they're for a new or seasoned player, have the equipment custom-fitted.Rackets
If she already has a racket she likes, have it re-strung.Skateboard
Send him to skate camp for a day or a weekend.Skates
Extra brake pads are always appreciated.Skis
New bindings can help improve her technique.Ski clothes
It's hard to buy a hat that's too crazy for the slopes.Sled
Multi-person sleds will satisfy the need for speed.Snowboard
Give wrist guards, and maybe a helmet, too. A step-in binding is usually more stable for beginners.More Great Ideas
Many of these items are experience-oriented because these kids are often on the go.
Books
She'll probably appreciate the latest best-sellers.Camping trip
Few things are more adult.Cash
Check, money order or gift certificate: They all spend the same to teens this age.Concert tickets
Spring for good seats; they can really enhance the experience.Gift certificates for clothes or food
Safe bets given teens' fickle tastes.Magazine subscription
A newsweekly is a good choice.Makeover
Go together and make a day of it at a salon: facial, nails, massage, pedicure.Movie tickets
Buy enough so she can take a few friends along.Museum membership
Look for one that offers excursions.Personalized stationery
Yes, kids still write.Savings bond
They're into delayed gratification, as long as it's someone else's money.Swiss army knife
These come in many colors besides the traditional red.Tickets to a sporting event or show
The right tickets can drop your relative age five to 10 years in her eyes.PrintShare it! — Rate it: up down flag this hub
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