What does a 14-year-old kid want for Christmas?
It really depends on the 14-year-old in question! Are they a gamer, a fan of the latest tech and gadgets? Are they fashion-conscious or in need of some good wardrobe essentials? Or are they into LEGO? Think about the teen, then think about the gift!
What's a good Christmas present for a teenage girl?
Every teenage girl will have a different idea of the perfect gift. And while that doesn’t make it easy to decide what to buy, it does mean that the best way of getting it ‘right’ is to ask. Does she love chilling out at the end of the school day with crafting? Is she obsessed with a particular TV show or is gaming more her thing? Is family board game night secretly her favourite day of the week? Have a think on what she enjoys the most, and buy a gift for YOUR teenage girl, not a generic one.
What do you get a teenage boy for Christmas?
It depends on what they enjoy! Most boys love gadgets and tech, so a gift that will enhance their gaming experience, such as a specialist mouse, will be well received. Alternatively, replacing the battered trainers you know they love wearing because they are falling apart will be met with thanks. Food is good too. Teenage boys are constantly hunting for nourishment, so a popcorn machine or waffle maker would be ideal.
What do you get the teenager who has everything?
Teenagers can be tricky to buy presents for. They can be hard to read, and many older teenagers earn their own money from part-time jobs, so they can buy the things they want and need.
Most teenagers have a hobby or interest, be it gaming, sports, music or a favourite TV show, and a gift focused on this part of their lives will be welcomed. Pay attention to what they already own and, if in doubt, ask!
Another good idea is to buy a present that will remind them of a happy memory, holiday or much-loved pet. Then, despite appearances, they will appreciate the thought that has gone into the gift and cherish it forever.
Remember, teenagers aren’t adults yet; sometimes, reintroducing an old favourite toy, such as the latest LEGO set, will make them smile.
How we chose our recommendations
When Christmas and birthdays arrive, Mumsnet community members are determined to make their brood smile and buying gifts they will love is a big part of that. So, we have carefully weighed up our Mumsnetters' recommendations on the presents they have purchased for their fussy teenagers that were well received. We have also investigated the products on best buy lists and checked authentic consumer reviews from various trusted retailers to ensure we were bringing you an honest round-up you can trust.
Why you should trust us
Mumsnet has been helping parents make their lives easier since 2000 and, in that time, we've analysed, tried and reviewed thousands of products. We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles.
About the author
Jenny Wonnacott is a Content Editor for Mumsnet, specialising in writing, editing and optimising several pages related to parenting, pregnancy and lifestyle. As a parent of three primary school-aged children and aunt to eleven (including three teenagers) Jenny has extensive experience researching the best Christmas presents for kids of all ages. She is passionate about making Mumsnetters' lives easier through rigorous research of all items recommended in reviews and buyers' guides such as this one.