Creative Gifts for Teenagers and Tweens

The classic Rubik’s Cube is all grown up, with a decidedly modern twist. The Skewb Ultimate is a 12-sided, 12-color spatial challenge created by designer Tony Durham. It’s based on a similar concept to the classic puzzle—twist the sides to mix up the shades, and then solve by getting one solid color to take up every side—but this version rotates in all directions. It’s got another purpose when it’s not in use, too: In Pucci-esque hues instead of the standard primary colors, it doubles as a pretty conversation piece for a nightstand, bookshelf, or coffee table.

To buy: $20, mcachicagostore.org.

Meow! Upgrade your tween’s run of the mill, ho-hum headphones to Brookstone’s ultra-cushioney, cat-theme pair, which lets her listen to all of her favorite tunes on her own or with a group of friends—all she has to do is flip a switch to use the “ears” as speakers. The hipster headphones also come with a detachable gaming mic, included carrying case, and LED accent lights on the speakers and ear cups. The battery charges via USB. (Optional: You can make her a playlist to go along with the gift, too.) Available in blue and purple.

To buy: $100, macys.com.

Transform his laptop into a personalized work of art. This click-on laptop cover will become the foundation for your teen’s latest Lego (or Mega Blok, or KRE-O) creation. He can use his sibling’s leftover building blocks to create an 8-bit masterpiece or ask them to design a cover just for him. Great for the teen who has a hard time committing to one design, this cover can be updated any time he wants. He can even search online for templates showing him how to create everything from emoji faces to gaming characters and more. Available in MacBook styles only.

To buy: $50 (Use code RS2016 through December 31), thinkgeek.com.

Why choose just one earring style when you can have two? These whimsical, mismatched enamel earrings are a fun pick for the middle schooler with eclectic taste. Presented in a pretty glass vial with a cork top, this package makes for a great grab bag gift. Each earring is gilded in 22-karat gold and has hypoallergenic posts to keep them from irritating sensitive skin. If you’re not feeling the fruit, you can choose from two other available styles (a unicorn and rainbow duo or a simpler color wheel and gray scale pair that can skew a bit older).

To buy: $24, blueribbongeneralstore.com.

Think you might have the next Taylor Swift or Ed Sheeran on your hands? Give this journal to help get those creative juices flowing. The 160-page (room for 72 songs) journal is lined on the left side for lyrics while the right side has staffed pages for composing melody, and fret diagrams for writing guitar fingerings. It also includes tips, prompts and words of wisdom from current songwriters for inspiration. The hardcover journal has an elastic band on back to mark where you left of or to keep the journal closed. There’s room in the back pocket for storing notes or ideas.

To buy: $13, papersource.com.

This aquarium feels like a modern-day lava lamp—with LED lights that you can change with the click of a button and 16 pre-set colors and brightness controls on a remote. The lights on this spherical fish tank play off of the filter’s bubbles for an extraordinary effect. Available in glossy grey or white, this acrylic habitat is actually stronger than glass and can hold up to four gallons of water. Accessorize your tank with sea fans, pebbles, kelp, and ferns of all different shapes and sizes to create a happy home for your fish.

To buy: $99 (decorative accessories sold separately), biorb.com.

She can keep her ears toasty without sacrificing any style points with these bold earmuffs. Choose from black or white faux fur—the white is topped off with a velvet band and bow, while the black is finished with satin. No matter the activity—building a snowman or walking to school, perhaps—these fuzzy ear warmers will make her feel cozy and comfortable. Wish they came in your size? Good news: they do. And if you order a pair for yourself now, well then that means once she grows out of hers she can always borrow yours.

To buy: $28, katespade.com.

Don’t get turned off by the unconventional color of this makeup set: the bright green formula actually mixes with the user’s pH level to create the ideal rosy hue, meaning everyone who uses it will end up with a different, unique result. The outcome is part beauty product, part science experiment—how fun is that? And with the holiday and New Year’s Eve festivities fast approaching, it would make a great addition to your tween’s makeup collection—she can even experiment on her friends and family to compare how the results differ from person to person.

To buy: $45, lipstickqueen.com.

Whether he has serious musical ambitions or just love to rip on karaoke, this recording microphone is fun across the board. The full size microphone plugs into the headphone outlet in your smartphone or tablet and can be used to record vocals, speeches, instruments, or other sounds. You can also download the app that comes with it to sing along with music from their library and add effects to the sound. Even if it just ends up being used as a prop when he’s jamming to his favorite song in the privacy of his own bedroom—it will be a cool addition.

To buy: $45, papersource.com.

Wondering what holiday gift to get your hard-to-please tween or teen niece? You’ll be sure to, er, nail it with this set of a dozen durable mini polishes. The collection will cover her for every kind of outfit and occasion, featuring a bunch of Julep’s most popular colors: a shimmery shade of melon (Lindsey), an iridescent celadon (Shay), a sparkly pink (Mickey), a smoky navy (Finley), and more. And not only are the polishes pretty, but they’re also quick drying and long-lasting too. Each color is made with a vegan-friendly formula that includes Hexanal (a strengthener) and green coffee extract (an antioxidant).

To buy: $48, ulta.com.

She wants to look cool and you want to keep her eyes safe. Your teen knows that no matter the season, a great pair of shades will enhance any look. Help her complement her ever-changing style—and safeguard her vision—with these retro-inspired, rounded metal shades. In addition to offering necessary UV protection, they give her the option to match whatever mood she’s in with plastic lenses that can be swapped out. And she can even switch in her prescription ones if she has them. Choose from eight colors, including yellow, tortoise shell, Bordeaux, amber, and more.

To buy: $55, madewell.com.

Virtual reality is now more accessible than ever. For the immersive gamer or wannabe world traveler, this flat-packed VR viewer will allow him to experience it all in 3D. The easily transportable goggles come complete with an ultra-protective phone case and can be put to use in a snap (literally). Access the lenses by sliding the panels outward then in, and secure them directly to the phone. These goggles will allow him to “walk” along his hometown streets on Google maps or explore the depths of the ocean—sans wetsuit.

To buy: $50 (Use code RS20 through December 31), speckproducts.com.

We all know teens’ lifelines are their smartphones. Ensure they never have to worry about it going dead on them again with this trendy charger pack. The slim design—it’s the size of a credit card—won’t weigh them down (read: no complaining about carrying it around), and with the sleek marble design, they won’t be embarrassed to pull it out in front of their friends either. It comes with a USB cord to charge (usually within three to four hours) and is compatible with most smartphones. Now they’ll just have to set reminders to charge it.

To buy: $24, urbanoutfitters.com.

Whether she’s storing her makeup or pens and pencils (or both!), this perfectly-sized pouch will keep her both organized and on trend. Inside there’s a slip pocket for divvying up smaller items from the larger ones, while a zip top ensures nothing will fall out. About half the size of a piece of printer paper, the bag can easily fit inside of a backpack or tote—or it can be carried alone as a clutch for the school’s winter dance. The black fabric and foiled print make it a fashionable choice no matter the time of the year.

To buy: $16, ulta.com.

Let your tween get in on the leather trend with this mini leather jacket. Made of faux-leather, this lightweight jacket comes with all the right metal snaps and zippers to look cool (what outfit isn’t elevated with a leather jacket thrown on top?) while still being age appropriate. It’s available in black and light pink to suit multiple styles. Both are adorable and are just right for fall and spring temperatures. They can also be dressed up or dressed down so they can get extra wear. And you can hand wash to save yourself from any expensive dry cleaning.

To buy: $23, forever21.com.

With the rise of digital photos and social media, the days of spending hours and hours cutting out printed pictures to scrapbook your memories is long gone. But sometimes we get nostalgic for that feeling of paging through a book of photos—don’t you? Get the best of both worlds by turning your teen’s year of selfies and countless hours on Instagram and Facebook into a series of books that they (and you) can keep and look back on when there’s (gasp!) a digital glitch. The 6-by-6-inch books won’t take up too much room, and you can choose either a soft or hard cover using as few as 30 pictures or up to 366.

To buy: From $8, chatbooks.com.

If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em! Forget trying to pull your family away from their screens. Now he won’t have to put his phone away—in fact, he’ll need it!—for this new game. Turn over a card to receive a prompt (“Most cracked screen wins,” “Send a message to your parents. First reply wins,” “Create an emoji masterpiece,” etc.) and use your phone to get the answer. The person who collects the most cards wins. This cell-friendly twist on family game night promises to deliver on the belly laughs—and most likely a selfie or two along the way.

To buy: $20, uncommongoods.com.

Make the countdown to Christmas even more exciting for the makeup lover on your list with this beauty-themed advent calendar. Beginning on the 12th of December, she can start opening up one festive little package a day to be surprised with lip glosses, glitter, lip liners, and more. Even better? They’re travel size so they’ll easily fit in her makeup bag or overnight tote without weighing her down or getting her stopped by TSA on the flight back home from the holidays. Bonus: it will (help to) prevent her from asking to open the presents under the tree early!

To buy: $18, ulta.com.

Help her to express herself with these sophisticated memo boards—whether she spells out encouraging words, a meaningful phrase, a quote from her favorite movie, a lyric from the song of the moment, or something out of her own imagination. Choose between different sizes (10x10, 16x20, or 24x30) and various colors (grey, black or white felt with white or wood trim) to fit your teen’s room and style. Each board comes with a set of letters. And not to worry, additional letters are sold separately to replace the ones that inevitably become misplaced. They’re also ideal for creating that perfect picture to share on social media.

To buy: $65-$250, letterfolk.com.

Help your teen jazz up her already favorite accessory (and protect it from scratches at the same time) with this fun pom-pom case. The clear hard-shell case protects her iPhone 6/6S while the light pink pom-pom dangles from a gold chain in the back, creating an eye-catching look. It can also serve as a little entertainment when she’s accompanying you on any less-than-entertaining weekend errands. Its inexpensive price point and slender packaging make for the perfect stocking stuffer. The best news: the fluffy attachment makes it super easy to spot for those (many) times she misplaces it.

To buy: $10, forever21.com.

Have a teen who can’t seem to take enough selfies? Why not offer a helping hand with this tricked out selfie stick. The sleek, steel stick retracts into a slender cylinder that easily fits in a tote or backpack and is protected from dents and dings. Available in six colors (black, blue, green, red, white, or yellow), it comes with a Bluetooth remote control, too, to help snap a pic at pretty much any angle. You might also find it handy on vacation when you want a family picture but there’s no one around to take it.

To buy: $30, acgears.com.

Help him to stand out from the crowd with a chic pack that’s roomy enough for all of his school essentials and personal supplies. Slouchy yet sturdy, this red-and-black lumberjack flannel bag is versatile enough to hold books, art supplies, a laptop, or even athletic clothes. Featuring faux-leather and denim-like details, the belted closure can be rolled up or down for space adjustments and the front snap button pouch and side pockets allow for easy access to necessities like his phone, pens, and wallet. Strong materials like cotton, polyurethane, and polyester mean it can take a beating or two—or at least last for a couple of semesters.

To buy: $60, abercrombie.com.

For the curious teen that is always into learning how things work, this buildable speaker will keep her occupied for hours. It comes with 49 parts and an app to download (it only works with apple products: iPhone, iPod, iPad, etc.) for step-by-step instructions. Plus, it was designed with kids in mind so the parts are durable and resilient. The fun part is that no two speakers will look the same thanks to the customizable covers (8 designs) and LED lighting. But every one has the Bose-quality sound so she can enjoy listening to her music even more knowing she built it!

To buy: $149, build.bose.com.

Turn the unsightly piles on your teen’s vanity into a more beautiful mess with this porcelain tray. The bright orange and gold tones with the “hello beautiful” message will lend a cheery vibe to any room. She can put it on her nightstand to hold her jewelry overnight or keep it by her door as a “catch-all” when she comes home from school. The statement-making tray can also be propped up on a bookshelf and used as more of a decorative piece. Whichever way she decides to go, her day will be a little brighter.

To buy: $22, luluandgeorgia.com.

If your teen loves playing Playstation 4 but you can stand the unsightly black box on your TV stand, this sleek cover will make you both happy. This wood cover (available in 4 finishes) is made from real wood and comes in individual pieces that stick onto the Playstation 4 to cover the front, top, and sides. Don’t worry, it leaves the vents fully exposed so it won’t cause your machine to overheat. You can also engrave the wood (choose from 4 different fonts and 3 sizes) for an extra $5 for a more customized gift.

To buy: $64, toastmade.com.

Ensure your teen a cozy sleep at her next slumber party with this uber plush, faux-fur sleeping bag. The anorak-inspired hood not only makes it adorable but extra comforting to hide behind during those scary movie marathons that inevitably seem to happen—whether she wants it to or not. The inside is lined with a durable polyester velboa that’s super soft and warm with a zipper front to hold the heat in. The best part: it’s machine washable so you don’t have to worry about any midnight snacks that might make their way inside come morning.

To buy: $169, pbteen.com.

By now your teen has probably mastered the art of the simple braided friendship bracelet. Help her take her skills to the next level with these bracelet and necklace kits, which include multiple colors and types of string along with little metal ornaments. Each kit includes illustrated instructions, as well as links to step-by-step video tutorials to easily create the bracelet or necklace. The bracelet kits come with enough materials to make two bracelets while the necklace kits only make one. Choose between several color families for the one that most fits your recipient.

To buy: $35, andreabocchio.com.

Help her keep organized in the jewelry department with this simplistic stand. The brushed brass metal pyramid could almost be mistaken as a piece of art, thanks to the clean lines and minimalistic style. The top bars allow necklaces and longer pieces to be hung while the middle parallel bars can hold bigger earrings. The bottom is lined with fabric and cushioned to lay rings without having to worry about them scratching. She can store it in a discreet corner or display it on her vanity—either way it looks neat and pulled together.

To buy: $25, amazon.com.

Whether she uses them on herself to create multiple looks or uses them to play makeup artist for her friends, this palette of 10 blushes will help her to get creative. From poppy pink to nude in finishes from matte to shimmer, these diverse blush hues cover the gamut. She can wear them individually or mix them together to create custom colors. The ultra-pigmented formula contains Amazonian clay, which helps the blush stay put for up to 12 hours without fading. The purple and gold mod compact case makes it easy, mess-free, and fun to carry around.

To buy: $44, sephora.com.

Nope, you’re not having déjà vu, chokers are having a major moment and they’re hotter than ever among the teen crowd. So why not reminisce and buy your teen one—even if it’s just for old times sake? This delicate style features beads and metal accents in three shades: black/gold, silver/hermatite, and rose/topaz. The adjustable lobster clasp ensures it will fit around any neck size—without causing harm! It can be dressed down with a t-shirt or dressed up with a dress. Both ways are trendy… even if just for a few more months!

To buy: $28, freepeople.com.

Unsure of the latest sports team your favorite teen is rooting for these days? Play it safe and go with this neutral cap instead. Made of wool, the hat is black and the bill is grey and it will keep them warm while still looking “cool.” Thanks to the neutral tones it can go with pretty much any outfit. Just don’t be upset at us when they don’t want to take it off (even inside). It’s one size fits all and has a velcro strip in the back so they can adjust to the perfect size.

To buy: $28, southmoonunder.com.

Give in to your tween’s favorite weekend treat with this fun graphic tee. The simple white t-shirt is printed with “donuts are a food group” and includes an image of a hot pink, sprinkled donut. She can wear it with jeans or match the donut with a bright pink skirt. No matter how she wears it, she gets her point across. And maybe it could even score her a free treat on your next donut run? If you want to go all in on the theme, consider packaging the gift with a dozen donuts (or a gift card) from her favorite shop. The shirt is 100% cotton and comes in sizes XS-L.

To buy: $34, junkfoodclothing.com.

A personalized gift never goes out of style. These simple rope bracelets are made with a shiny brass plate in the middle that can be customized with initials, full names, nicknames, or any other word or name (sorry @ signs are not an option, which means you can’t use her Twitter handle). Make it just for her by choosing between 15 fonts and eight rope colors (green, navy, orange, pink, red, turquoise, white, or yellow) so it’s just her style. The rope can be pulled to adjust the size and the ends are finished with a brass cover so the rope won’t fray over time.

To buy: $49, markandgraham.com.

Do you have a niece who is constantly reapplying her lip balm? If so, this gift tin may be right up her alley. Complete with two lip-smacking and flavors (Berry Sinister and Coco-Loco-Mint) and a pink mustache cap cover (that doubles as a finger puppet!), this all natural set will help give her lips some love. The moisturizing balm will offer up a tingly sensation while the mustache might just become one of her go-to selfie accessories this holiday season. Last, but not least, this steampunk set is finished off with some silly stickers to boot.

To buy: $9.50, ulta.com.

Is your teen a Performer? Or is she an Intellectual? How about a Rebel? These light and lovely scents based on sensibilities make a fun first fragrance. Choose from 12 personality types.
 

To buy: $50 each (Use code RS50D), archetypes.com.

If she hasn’t yet had a chance to travel the world, give her a gift that will not only inspire wanderlust at an early age, but will also help her study for geography class. The 540-piece challenge is just right for any middle or high schooler on your list. The curved plastic pieces are numbered on the inside to assist in the process. When completed, the globe fits securely inside the included base, no glue required, and is fully functional (yes, it really spins!). It’s sure to find a permanent place proudly displayed on her desk.

To buy: $28, amazon.com.

Detached from the wooden base, it looks a lot like your average hourglass. However, once attached to the magnetic beech wood base, give it a flip and this one-minute timer creates mesmerizing craggy art as the seconds tick by. It’s a perfect desktop curio for stress relief when he needs a time out between chapters in his biology textbook or a fun way to see how fast he can finish that algebra equation. At just three inches long and 6.5 inches high, the hypnotic desk accessory won’t take up too much room on a surface that’s probably already littered with books.

To buy: $18, uncommongoods.com.

This hilarious glove (yes, you read that right—it’s just one glove) looks just like Santa’s suit. But that’s not the best part. He’s sure to get a kick out of the attached pocket—it’s big enough to fit a cup of hot cocoa, a bottle of water, or even a can of soda. But don’t worry: Just one glove doesn’t mean his other hand will freeze. This mitten slips right over the thin pair of gloves he already has. Everyone at the tailgate before those late-season football games will wonder where they can get one of their own.

To buy: $15, ae.com.

She’s always loved games, but Tic Tac Toe probably feels a little too simple for her at this point. More appropriate for her age, this layered take on the traditional board game is crafted out of quality bamboo and offers a multitude of possible moves. Win with a number of strategies including completing rows (ascending, descending, same size, or concentric), filling circles, and more with your designated color. Bonus: The whole family can get in on the fun, since this version of the critical thinking game accommodates up to four players. For ages eight and up.

To buy: $35, marblesthebrainstore.com.

A six-piece set of brushes and tools—plus a handy tin for easy storage—to help her create dots, stripes, and ombre nail designs like a pro. The kit includes a double-sided dotting tool for two different size dots, a striping brush for detailed styles, a clean-up brush to wipe away excess polish, an ombre brush to create a watercolor effect, a long striping brush for bold lines, and a mini nail file to smooth and shape rough edges. Throw in a couple of bottles of polish in her favorite color combos and she can get started right away.

To buy: $30, nordstrom.com.

A 10-piece set of pro-level tools for the blushing beauty on your list. There’s a separate brush for all of her makeup needs—from a large blush brush to a teeny-tiny eyeliner brush. Each applicator has an easy-to-grip black and gold silicone handle to make her morning routine feel a little more glam. Pair the line of brushes with an attractive travel pouch, so she can take all of her new favorite beauty tools on the go. Or, give her a couple of new shades of eyeshadow or liner to experiment with. Just in time for New Year’s Eve!

To buy: $40, target.com.

A heavenly bauble—a connected gold-plated design forms constellation patterns for each sign of the zodiac—this accessory is sophisticated enough for a college girl and inexpensive enough for tweens experimenting with a new style. The choker, which comes in two sizes (17 or 20 millimeters wide) and two colors (gold and silver), is right on trend this season. And since each necklace is personalized according to her sign, it’s a fun gift for a group of girlfriends or a pair of sisters. If she’s not much of a sartorial risk taker, try the all-metal version instead.

To buy: From $18, dearmia.etsy.com.

Get a pair of earrings in her initials for a personalized gift that goes with just about any outfit choice. Made of glass stones and brass with a metallic gold finish, these delicate studs have just the right amount of sparkle, without being too flashy. She can wear them to school (a great way to add personality to a dress code or a required uniform) and on weekend outings with friends. The earrings are sold individually, so choose her initials or any combination of her favorite letters (we think XO could be a sweet option, too).

To buy: From $29 each, markandgraham.com.

If your teen spends the majority of his time in his room, give him something that ensures it’s a comfy and cool spot to hang out. The chair back offers more support than a regular bean-bag seat, which makes it the perfect spot for reading or doing some studying—or playing his favorite video game in between chapters or algebra equations. And don’t worry about any spills or food stains—the fabric is stain- and water- resistant. Plus, it’s easy to spot clean when he inevitably spills his drink. Available in two colors: Patriot Blue and Stretch Limo Black.

To buy: $34, amazon.com.

If her taste changes like the tides, give her a phone case that’s completely customizable. The translucent case, which fits iPhone 6 and 6S, comes in a pretty blush tone and includes four sheets of stickers that can be swapped in and out whenever she wants a change. There’s something for everyone, from funny phrases like ”Fries before guys” to quirky illustrations, including ice cream cones, ring pops, a pineapple, and more. The fun hard plastic case will help protect her phone from drops, but there’s nothing we can do anything about all of that data she uses.

To buy: $26, people.com.

If she’s already read all seven books (and watched all seven movies) over and over again, give her something that adds a little charm to her world of muggles. Like magic, a box filled with officially licensed collectibles, apparel, figurines, memorabilia, and more, will appear on her doorstep every two months. All the goods (there are five to seven items in each shipment) come packaged in a sleek black box with a faux lock. If Harry Potter isn’t really her thing, try one of the other themed crates—like Marvel super heroes or Loot Wear, which is filled with monthly surprises like socks, tees, and more—instead.

To buy: From $35 (Available 12/4), lootcrate.com.

A gift that would satisfy anyone on your list, these playful earphones offer subtle shimmer that makes them not only modern, but also easy to find in a messy bedroom. The in-ear portion features star-studded colorful caps (choose from black or teal) and top-notch sound quality. A three-button microphone means she can switch songs, turn down the volume when you’re talking to her, or pause to answer a phone call. Tangle-proof cords ensure they won’t end up in a stubborn knot at the bottom of her purse or backpack. They come complete with a zip-up carrying case, too.

To buy: $70, people.com.

She’s barely hit high school, but her calendar is already jam-packed with soccer practice, music lessons, school events, and after-school engagements with friends. Give her a kitschy-cute umbrella that gives her permission to ask for a rain check when skies are gray. The clear modern design makes for a stylish accessory that also serves to keep her clothes dry and her hairstyle in tact. At 38.5 inches in diameter, the umbrella is large enough to offer a friend a little bit of cover in a pinch, too. A tab with a snap closure ensures easy storage.

To buy: $38, katespade.com.

Young recipients and their parents will be rendered speechless—for very different reasons—by this massive (five pounds and 10 inches high!), Willy Wonka-esque confection. At 1,000 times the size of an average gummy bear, they’ll be eating away at this confection for a very, very long time. Does your favorite tween have a gluten allergy? Not to worry—this candy is gluten-free, too. Available in 11 fruity flavors: cherry, cherry cola, cola, fruity bubblegum, grape, lemon, lime, orange, pineapple, raspberry, and sour apple. You might want to package this gift with a replacement toothbrush and some extra toothpaste.

To buy: From $30, amazon.com.

Crafty musicians can make old plastic (like hotel key cards, Mom or Dad’s expired credit card, his school ID from last year, the plastic lid from that big jar of coffee grinds, or the Best Buy gift card they used moments after receiving it) rock new lives as guitar picks. It works just like a regular hole punch—simply slip a thin piece of plastic in the slot and press down on the lever to make standard 351 shape guitar picks. Now all she’ll need is a place to store all of those new guitar picks.

To buy: $23, amazon.com.

Did she spend a lot of time examining “the dress” when the world couldn’t decide if it was blue and black or white and gold? Or, maybe she surveyed the whole family to find out who saw “the legs” as ultra-shiny and oily and who saw them as paint-flecked? If so, this book is an absolute must this year. Packed with pop-ups, eyeball-benders, tabs, flaps, and spinning disks, it’s analog entertainment to rival the Xbox. Not totally sold yet? There’s even a 3D sculpture that follows you around the room. The book also serves a science lesson of sorts, offering explanations for how the illusions work.

To buy: $16, amazon.com.

Be the favorite aunt or uncle with a cool, impressive ride for your sporty tween niece or nephew. The long 40-inch four-wheeler may have a plain black grip top, but the underside of this ride features a cool and colorful Aztec-inspired sketch and bright red wheels. A bit of advice: Be a responsible aunt or uncle and give this gift with a set of protective gear (a helmet, wrist guards, and knee pads) if your niece or nephew doesn’t already have a set of his or her own. Available in a range of artful designs.

To buy: $73, amazon.com.

If your son or daughter is always asking to borrow your phone to play Angry Birds, Fruit Ninja, or Cut the Rope, give them a device of their own (that doesn’t have the capability to make long distance calls or unapproved in-app purchases). With 3D capability and the pre-installed Super Mario World, they’ll think this handheld gaming system is beyond cool. Available in six colors: lime green (shown here), red, black, white, galaxy (navy), and black with a Pokemon sketch. If they already own the device, get them a fun new game, like Mario Party Star Rush, instead.

To buy: $200, amazon.com.