It’s Christmas time already and most of us, I’m sure, have quite a bit more shopping to do, if we’ve started at all. There are always difficult people for whom to buy presents on Christmas lists. One of the most difficult groups to buy for can be gifted teenagers, who have unique interests and sensitive characters. What is a good present for gifted teens? To tell you the truth, this question is much too broad. Let us start with pre-teen girls who have a passion for learning. Buy them the latest educational software, a subscription to National Geographic, art supplies or books of puzzles from companies like Mensa. For pre-teen boys, there are many excellent specialty toy stores, where educational toys can be bought. To tell you the truth, such stores were my favorite places to visit when I was younger.
For teen girls, toys no longer fit the bill. These girls want educational, fascinating and interesting items that will help them succeed in the high goals that they have. Give them quality stationary supplies, software or, again education magazine subscriptions. A gift certificate is always good, and everyone needs clothing and money. Boys will be happy to receive the same things, as well as technological toys and machines.
Some ideas for stumped friends and relatives: Take the teen out for the morning. Go out for a nice snack and hit the bookstores. Check out Chapter’s. Gifted teens can spend hours in such stores. Have them pick out their ten favorite things and write them down on a list. Then take the list and pick something from it. In this way, there will still be a surprise on Christmas morning. Another idea: Ask the teen what his or her greatest interests are. Sign the teen up for a course in that subject. Universities offer enrichment courses and there are several summer courses available for eager students. There are also exchanges that many teens long to participate in. By contacting the Lions or Rotary Clubs, an affordable exchange can be arranged. Other options include: The gift of time (offer to edit all of their English essays for a year) or the gift of money (offer to pay for all their educational supplies for a couple months). You could also take them on a trip and benefit along with them.
The only warning is: don’t buy things you may regret later. Don’t buy them the latest acid rock CD unless you buy a large supply of aspirin for yourself as well. Don’t buy them rebellious clothing or clothing with inappropriate clothing: Not only will this get them into trouble, it
Go To Page: 1 2
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Heather Ringrose's Gifted Teens topic, please visit the Discussions page.