Gift Ideas for Teenagers: Girls and Boys Aged 12–17

View full-size photo

Teenagers are the hardest to surprise: tastes change fast, children's toys no longer appeal, and adult things aren't always appropriate. Gifts that support their passions, give freedom of choice or offer new experiences work best. Here are gift ideas for teenagers aged 12–17, girls and boys, by interests and budget, experience gifts and what to avoid. For an 18th, see 18th birthday gifts.

More on this topic: our gift ideas hub, gifts for girls, gifts for boys.

How to choose a gift for a teenager

• Teenagers appreciate having their interests taken seriously. Ask parents or friends what they're into right now: music, gaming, sport, drawing, fashion or content creation. If unsure, a voucher for a favourite shop or money in creative packaging is ideal: at this age, freedom of choice is a gift in itself.If she is only turning 10, see gift ideas for a 10-year-old girl.

Ideas for teen girls and boys

• For a teenage girl: beginner make-up, jewellery, a stylish bag, an instant camera, a ring light for content, a craft kit or her favourite artist's concert. For a boy: headphones, a gaming mouse or keyboard, a skateboard, an advanced building set, a drone or match tickets.
• For younger children, see gifts for girls and gifts for boys.

Ideas by age: 12, 14, 15, 16–17

Teenagers’ interests change fast, so let age guide you:

View full-size photo

New Year gifts for teens

Under the tree, teens hope for what they’ve wanted all year — a gadget, a games console or game, trendy trainers. Add small extras: printed warm socks, a fairy-light lamp for their room, a sweet treat box, tickets to a winter festival or the ice rink with friends. Teens don’t want gifts to look “childish”, so choose understated wrapping.

Experiences and flowers

• Experiences often beat things for teenagers: a concert, an escape room, laser tag, go-karting, a climbing wall, a pottery, DJ or cooking workshop, or a trip with friends. Teenage girls also love getting their own bouquet, such as a bright rose mix or a boxed arrangement, just like grown-ups.

What not to give a teenager

• Avoid childish gifts a teen may find insulting, worthy items like textbooks or encyclopaedias, clothes chosen without them and gifts hinting at looks. For older teens, see graduation gift ideas and our gift ideas section.

Flowers and gifts for teens delivered

Add a bright bouquet or a sweet basket to the gift: we deliver across Kyiv at the right time.

View full-size photo

See roses and gift baskets.

View full-size photo

FAQ

What should I give a 14-year-old?

Earbuds, an instant camera, a skateboard, a craft kit, concert tickets or a voucher.

What should I give a teenage girl?

Beginner make-up, jewellery, a bag, a ring light, a concert and flowers.

What should I give a teenage boy?

A gaming mouse or keyboard, headphones, a skateboard, a drone or match tickets.

Can I give a teenager money?

Yes, nicely packaged or as a voucher: freedom of choice is valuable at this age.

Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.

About the author →