Aibu to think I'm crap at picking things for my kids Xmas?

[Starsinyoureyes13]

This year is no exception, my daughters are older, my teenager is 15 and my oldest is 24, every year my heads aching what to get them for xmas?

The reason I'm asking is can people please through me ideas I'm actually desperate, I know it's early but I want it out the way so I can relax

That's meant to read throw ideas not through

Sorry I know this is a daft answer but asking them is the only good way.

What do they like?
My DM started buying me something practfor Christmas when I was 25, it started with a hoover. It has been a food mixer, saucepans, plates... this year we've asked for a water butt.

The oversized hoodies (oodies and similar seem popular)

I would just ask them. At their ages I liked money, make up, perfume, clothes, books...

Surely it depends what they’re into? I know several girls in that age range and whilst some would love make up, perfume and fashion clothes, others would like sports equipment and outdoor gear!

Having this exact chat to DD2 (18) right now - her and DD1 (20) always say 'cash' - not sitting round Christmas morning opening on envelope with cash in it - so I split it cash AND bits

Mine like perfume, PJ's, candles, things related to TV shows they like, last year DD1's best gift was a washable electric fluffy blanket

Trainers/shoes are good and jewelry

Stocking are always full of bits they like - Primark undie sets, slippers, face packs, chocolate

and cash!

At 48, I have just started adding things to an Amazon wishlist that only my mother has the link to. It has transformed how we both feel about her presents to me. She still gets to choose (I put loads of stuff on there, big and small) and I am relaxed, knowing that she isn’t wasting money on stuff I don’t want.

I hate wasting money so I always ask the children.

Mine still do a ‘Santa list’ - and they are 13, 21 and 25. They won’t get everything on the list and I still add extras but it means they are getting what they want. I always get things like pjs, perfume, books, diaries, notebooks, nail varnish, make up for the younger 2, things related to their fave shows, calendars, blankets etc. I actually have a list within my phone notes (password protected) I use year after year and delete and amend as I see things.

Just ask them.
Tell them your budget (they are old enough) and ask them for 5 suggestions in that price range - pick one so they get a surprise.
Then do them a stocking of small ish things like toiletries you know they use, choc Santa, a paperback book, a novelty Christmas tree decorations etc.

Are they into make up/skincare at all. I was gifted with a birchbox 3 month subscription which I really liked because it wasn't something I would have got myself (I'm in my 20s). But there's loads of different ones, especially if they're maybe more into stationary of homeware or whatnot.