- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- grandparents today articles
- grandparents today q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
 |
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
The Perfect Gift
Shopping for Your Adolescent Grandchild
By Sue Marquette Poremba
Electronics are a favorite gift for both boys and girls, says Laura Silsby, CEO and Founder of PersonalShopper.com. "Boys love computer and video games," she says. "Younger boys prefer games based on movies, while older teens like sports games." But, she adds, before buying any video game, "learn what game platform they are using!" Sports video games are updated every year, so even if your grandson has the 2006 version of the game, he would be happy to have the 2007 version.
Another popular electronic gift this year is cell phones that double as an MP3 player. Today's teens prefer to download their music from the Internet one song at a time. Grandparents who are really in tune with their grandchildren's taste in music and technologically savvy (or perhaps get help from another grandchild) can download a dozen favorite songs and create a one-of-a-kind CD.
If your grandchild has a favorite television show or movie, chances are, it is out on DVD, always a favorite gift for teenagers. For adolescents who enjoy reading or have a hobby or special interest, books or a magazine subscription are welcome gifts. A fun, yet practical gift is a calendar; with hundreds of different styles available, a grandparent can be certain to find one their grandchild will like.
