While most adults may think that teens are just into video games and electronic gadgets, there is a wide range of gifts just perfect for the teen in your life. Depending on their personality, age, hobbies or even gender, teen gift ideas are as varied as the teens themselves.
Teen boys may seem difficult to come up with teen gift ideas, but there are many options beyond video games or other electronics. Go graphic with cool clothing, such as T-shirts with edgy designs and sayings, fashionable hoodies and vintage accessories. Teen boys will adore DVD collections of irreverent cult classic TV shows or some video editing software so he can make his own videos into memorable masterpieces.
A young man into sports will always enjoy a teen birthday gift idea related to his favorite team, player or sport. From team logo wall graphics and authentic sports merchandise to sports watches and brand name duffle bags, these teen gift ideas for the sports fan are sure to please.
Give a homemade gift to show the teen boy you've really considered creativity over cash. He'll love personalized tie-dyed bedding. Use light colored sheets and pillowcases for a cool tie-dye effect, then personalize the pillowcase with his initials using fabric markers for a one-of-a-kind teen birthday gift idea.
Teen gift ideas for girls can range from ultra-feminine to cutting-edge. Try giving a subscription to her favorite magazine, whether it's a teen glamour mag or a more specific one, such as for travel, photography or cooking. Give her a bath set with personalized towels. Package them with soap samples, body lotion, a bath pouf and a loofa for a spa-worthy teen birthday gift idea.
Beyond jewelry and clothes, teen gift ideas for girls can include roomy handbags, accent scarves and sweet shoes. Try art sets, retro roller skates, digital camera software or fun journals for the creative teen girl.
There are lots of teen gift ideas for teen girls that can be made at home. If you've got a teen girl on your list, try making some homemade jewelry. Most craft stores sell basic kits to get started and offer a wide selection of beads to choose from. Go funky or formal, and she'll appreciate it as long as it matches her personality. If you are a sewer or knitter, there are plenty of gift ideas for teen girls. Make a jazzy apron for the budding cook, or knit a cool beanie for cold weather.
 | No matter what your budget, you can create exciting and fun sweet sixteen party ideas that will have your daughter thanking you. |
 | Sweet sixteen cakes are often the centerpiece of the party, and should also reflect this milestone moment. Here are some ideas for birthday cakes that should satisfy just about every type of teen: |
 | Teenage birthday party ideas start with consulting the teen herself. Start by setting guidelines, and then find a theme. |
Start planning by setting a budget and thinking of sweet sixteen party ideas, but remember that hanging out with friends and having fun should be the top goals of the party. |
My daughter recently started planning her Sweet 16 birthday party. She is 11 years old. (Thank You MTV My Super Sweet Sixteen Celebration and curse her dad for letting her watch it!) |
