Tag Archives: Gifts

Great Gifts for Teen Guys

With four sons between the ages of 7 and 17, my house is a living laboratory of the modern American young man. With the holidays looming, people ask me often what might make a great gift for their favorite nephew/cousin/brother/godson. Of course, I have a teen daughter too and she loves a lot of this stuff too.

Lego, anything Doctor Who-related, and any kind of ball are always safe bets for the tween and younger teen. But what if you want or need some more ideas for your older teen? Here’s a list of great gifts for teen guys that should please nearly any boy (and some of the girls ) on your list, but most especially the ones that are also asking for Axe or car keys this Christmas.

For Boys in Motion

FORZA Soccer Goal 12×6
If you have a sports-loving kid, this is certain to put a smile on his face. We have already worn out one of these so this is topping my boys’ lists this year for sure.

Kan Jam Game Set

This was a huge hit at the beach last summer. My 17yo son put this at the top of his list this year.

ESPN Films 30 for 30: Complete Season 1
Watching these great sports films has become a mother/son bonding thing each week. Quality sports entertainment perfect for your sports-loving boy.

Youth Bow And Arrow Set-Air Storm Firetek Bow

Sure to secure your place as mom of the year with this one. These are the most fun, safe bow and arrow sets out there and they have LED lights so you can play at night. I almost cannot stand the awesome. Younger teen boys kind of lose their mind over this stuff.

Nerf CS-18 N-Strike Elite Rapidstrike

Nerf guns are a neighborhood staple and these are the best ones. Period. Reliable and quick, your favorite guy should dominate his next Nerf battle with this one. The 17yo said this would still be a winner.

ProSource Heavy-Duty Easy Gym Doorway Chin-Up/Pull-Up Bar

Big boys need an outlet. Short of installing a gym in your basement, this should do the trick.

Great Games

The Settlers of Catan
We love games to lure sulky teens back to the family fold. This is one of our favorites. Easy to learn, fairly quick (most games are done in a little over an hour) but interesting enough to survive a week long beach trip without getting boring. This is a game you will come back to time and again. A favorite for all of my kids—boys and girl alike!
Pandemic Board Game
Another great choice for family game night. My boys (and girl) love watching the disease hot spots pop up and I love how we assume different roles as disease-fighting specialists all working together to put out the hot spots. If the disease spreads, we all lose. If we contain the outbreak, we all win. Family fun and peace in one box. Fa-la-la-la-la.

Munchkin Deluxe

Tween boys lose their ever-loving minds over this game. At a price point under $30, it’s a great gift choice and with a gazillion add-on card packs, it’s a gift idea that you can recycle for his birthday as well. Keep this in mind for the younger set. It’s a winner.

Classic Parcheesi Board Game

All of the teens and tweens love this classic game. But you have to get the version with the animals. Nothing like having the camels and the water buffalo duke it out in the end. Trust us on this one.

Farkle Classic Dice Game

With a price point below $10, this one could be a great stocking stuffer or perfect for a gift exchange. We play this all summer long and during snow days. Super-fast and fun.

Tech Any Boy Would Love

Motorola MH230TPR Rechargeable Two Way Radio 3 Pack, FRS/GMRS

We gave these to the boys last Christmas, and they were a run-away hit. There are other two way radios of course, but these work up to 5 miles apart. My kids use them constantly.

Zoomer Zuppies Interactive Puppy – Spot
Boys and their dogs are not easily parted. If you are not ready to commit to the fuzzy, furry type, this one will certainly win you high fives on Christmas Day. Boys and tech are always a win! For younger teens, this is topping their list this Christmas.

JAM Classic Bluetooth Wireless Speaker (Blueberry) HX-P230BL
All of my kids LOVE their music, and this speaker is topping my 11yo’s list. Right now, he uses the computer to blast his tunes to help him through his chores. This will make his sound portable and shareable. A hit for all teens!

Just for Fun

Star Wars Command Millennium Falcon Set

A lot of boys love Star Wars and these command sets combine the appeal of army men with the classic movie. Any of the sets would be a winner, but we are partial to the Millennium Falcon. All boys love a toy, even big ones.

Nike Elite Basketball Crew

I don’t know why boys love these socks. They just do. Great Stocking Stuffers!

Polo Ralph Lauren Men’s Pony Logo Baseball Hat Cap

All of the senior boys I know have this on their list. Don’t question. Just surprise him with your awesomeness. Anything Ralph Lauren is good apparently.

Quadcopter

If your boy loves the radio-controlled genre of fun, this one is the MacDaddy of fun. It’s a remote-controlled helicopter with a camera. You will be getting high fives and hugs all season long.

Discovery Kids Night Vision Spy Goggles

Spy stuff is always a winner for the younger teen/tween set.

Teen Boys Play Video Games

FIFA 15 – Xbox 360

Yeah, we’re soccer dorks. This is my boys’ favorite game. Thanks, Grandma!

Mario Kart 8

One of the best video games to come out this year, this game that appeals to everyone would be a great gift.

Madden NFL 15

Every version of this game is pretty great, but this year’s upgrade does not disappoint.

Hope these ideas help you make your favorite teen guy’s Christmas extra-special this year. Of course, there might be some crossover potential for some of the girls on your list too!

-Erin

Need a great #gift idea for your favorite tween or teen boy? We’ve got a ton!

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Mens Wood Watches

Looking for gift ideas for the teen girls in your life? Look no further than here!

Looking for even MORE ideas?

Check out this year’s great super-sized list!

Holiday gift guide for teens and tweens | Sisterhood of the Sensible Moms

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Terrific Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas

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The first full week in May is National Teacher Appreciation Week. Did you forget? For goodness’s sake, learn how to work your phone and mark your calendar. But don’t worry because we’ve got your appreciation gift ideas right here.

We are big fans of teachers here in The Sisterhood, but then again, who isn’t? They change the world one little corner of it at a time by tapping those hidden reservoirs of awesome in their students.

With that in mind, we present you with two categories of gifts: some for the whole class to do and some for just your child to make. Either way, the teachers will know how much they’re appreciated without costing you a lot of time or money.

Get your DIY on! Teacher appreciation gift ideas that are rich in gratitude, but easy on the wallet: some are class projects and some are individual endeavors. - Sisterhood of the Sensible Moms

Class Projects

1. The TOTE-ally wonderful bag.

This one requires a go-getter Mom to spearhead it, most likely you, but that’s the biggest hurdle. Just order a canvas tote like the ones from LL Bean or Lands’ End. Buy an assortment of fabric paints. Arrange to meet with the class at a time when the teacher is elsewhere, usually lunch or recess. Paint each child’s hand, place it on the tote, and then have each child sign his or her hand print. (And yes, you’d better have hand wipes.) With a fabric pen, write a cute saying like “We have to hand it to you . . . You’re the best!” Or “You’re hands down the best teacher!”

2. Show them the money . . . or at least the gift cards.

This one is a breeze but will have your teacher celebrating all year long. Have every student bring a gift card worth $5 to school. Place them all in a pretty basket and present it to the teacher.

3. “Thanks for Helping Us Grow!”

Show your teacher how much she has helped you grow by offering her a whole garden of her own. Have each child contribute a seed packet. Then help each child craft and decorate a pocket for each packet. Attach all the pockets to popsicle sticks and arrange in a pot. (Try reading those last two sentences aloud. Our gift to you.)

4. Give the “write” stuff.

Have the kids design custom stationary for their favorite teacher! Give each child two pieces of paper. Help them stamp their fingerprints in the corners and then show them how to create animals with them by drawing on details with colored pencils or crayons. Notes home have never looked so good.

5. Color your teacher fabulous!

Have each child donate a crayon he or she used in class during the year. Use the crayons to create the first letter of your favorite teacher’s name by gluing them on a piece of craft paper, then place the creation in a frame. Ask each child to remember something he or she drew that year with the crayon. Print their answers and tape to the back of the frame. Sweetness achieved!

Not really feeling up to organizing a herd? Here are six more simple ideas just perfect for your little scholar to give.

Get your DIY on! Teacher appreciation gift ideas that are rich in gratitude, but easy on the wallet: some are class projects and some are individual endeavors. - Sisterhood of the Sensible Moms

Individual Endeavors

1. Make an acrostic poem.

This quick form of poetry uses the letters of a word to begin each line. It’s an activity that even young children can do. Use the word “teacher” or even the teacher’s name. Write the name vertically and fill in the poem next to the appropriate letters. For example: Teaches us how to count, Every day, she is happy to see me, etc. Make it extra special by putting it in a decorative frame.

2. Write a meaningful thank you note.

There is something special in this fast paced world about receiving a handwritten letter of appreciation. It is also an important skill for any child to learn. There is no better time than this to show them how.

3. Create a book of gratitude.

Have your child write or type 5 to 10 valuable lessons he or she has learned from that teacher on separate pieces of fancy paper then make them into a little book.

4. Pass along some favorite easy recipes.

Do you have those go-to recipes that save you on a busy day? Share them with a busy teacher. You could put them in a decorative recipe box or better yet, just attach them to a plate of cookies. Here are some of our favorite recipes if you are searching for some to share, just click here.

5. Give supplies in a cup.

Need a quick and easy way to show you care? How about filling one of those lidded clear plastic reusable cups with some craft supplies. Paper clips, dry erase markers, or permanent markers make a colorful presentation. Don’t forget to add a cute note to the straw – “I am filled to the brim with appreciation” to complete the look of the gift.

Made in minutes on PicMonkey.

6. Honor an interest.

Is there something special the teacher likes? You can assemble a unique gift highlighting that interest. Use mints or candy to fill a tumbler emblazoned with his or her favorite team’s logo. Nestle a favorite DVD and some bags of microwave popcorn in a decorative bowl. The possibilities are endless.

Now go out there and show some appreciation!

Teacher appreciation gift ideas that are rich in gratitude, but easy on the wallet!

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-Ellen and Erin

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5 Gifts That Keep on Giving

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Just a little heads up: Christmas is a week away which means, boys and girls, that it’s go time! We know you might be rocking in a corner somewhere or railing against the gods of timesuck that you have more things on your to-do list than time to do it, but we’re here to help. While we can’t stuff your stockings, hang your baubles, or roast your beast, we can share some things that have helped us find the happy sweet underbelly of Christmas in the midst of the madness. Think of it as the cookie before the main course. What? Cookies don’t come first? We’ll never tell.

We’re gonna keep this short and simple, folks, because quite frankly, who’s got the time, but here are:

1) The Gift of Experience

We both believe that experiences trump things. To that end, over the years, we have given concert tickets, special trips, museum visits, and special lessons. We could say that the memories from those special moments were as much a gift to us as to our kids. But spending special time with their awesome moms is the ultimate gift for our kiddos AND they usually end up with a souvenir AND we end up with great pictures! Consider this idea a win-win-win!

The lads and Ellen had a brilliant Christmas.

The lads and Ellen AND her kids had a brilliant Christmas.

2) The Gift of Tradition and Time Together

Never underestimate the power of unplugging. Erin’s family kicks it old school with a new puzzle every year. After they work as a family to put it together, then they mount it, and use it for a Christmas decoration the following year. A foolproof plan for fun and festive flair!

We both also give games. Sure, one might argue that our deeply rooted competitive natures might be at the heart of this one, but we offer this counter-argument. The Great Scrabble Rout of 2007? The Epic Camel Slaughter in Parcheesi? The time the four year old won the UNO tournament? These memories all rival any trip we have ever taken in the annals of family fun. So bottom line, you can think what you want. And if you are coming over this Christmas, be prepared to pick a card.

3) The Gift of Memory

Each year we both work our Shutterfly accounts like a boss to create calendars with pictures from the past year to guide us through the new one. We also both make family yearbooks. Because we started blogging in 2011, Erin is a little behind so her family is getting the 2011 yearbook this Christmas. Resist the urge to point out that we are now in the fleeting days of 2013. She knows. She KNOWS!

4) The Gift of Acknowledgment

Every year Erin’s kids pick someone who has been an angel to their family. Then they give a plate of cookies and an angel ornament to that person. The conversation as they decide who to pick each year is a gift to them all as they realize how many wonderful people they have in their life.

5) The Gift of Each Other

As a general rule, the best gifts don’t actually fit in a box or bag. When Erin’s kids were young, they spontaneously created a play one Christmas Eve. Even as the kids have crossed over into Planet Teen, they have never given up creating a special performance for that night. It is, without question, the best gift Steve and Erin get all year and they are really hoping that one of the videos from these performances will hit it big on Youtube. Then it can keep on giving all the way to the Ivy League. How’s that for a Christmas wish?

But that’s not all.

Our trees are trimmed to the nines with handprints, school pictures, and handicrafts of all skill levels. Our schedules are crammed with band concerts and Christmas plays and choral recitals. Our houses are full of trays of cookies, homemade decorations, and gingerbread houses.

Apparently when boys outgrow gingerbread houses, they get creative and start crafting things on their own. Like the TARDIS from DOCTOR Who.

We know that this is the good stuff. So we clean up the glitter glue and the paper confetti on the floor, work our crockpots to the max to get dinner to the masses before each performance, and buy more cookie sheets to keep our little cookie sweat shops cranking. The big wide world will be taking these kids soon enough.

For now, we will just take a deep breath, enjoy the chaos, and be grateful for our gifts.

And if none of this helps, we have found that nothing will help you get your holiday spirit on like a reluctant angel.

A merry, merry last week of Christmas!

Erin and Ellen

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Fabulous Gifts For Teen Girls

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We’re not much for the Black Friday hoopla, but we can get down with Cyber Monday. How can you beat shopping in your pajamas or while you’re at work–on break of course <ahem>. So we’re making lists and checking them twice and hoping we can get some steals and deals for our teen girls. Even if these gifts don’t go on sale, there is a price range for everyone. All 16 gifts have been Daughters of the Sisterhood approved, so behold . . .

Our Sweet Sixteen Gift Guide

Conair 1875 Watt Full Size 4-in-1 Hair Dryer

This is the best dryer EVER. Seriously. Erin almost stole it from Ellen while they were on vacation together. Good thing Ellen’s daughter Coco (15) does not let it out of her sight. It dries thick hair fast–like Ellen’s thick main of hair in under 20 minutes–and the smoothing attachment is a miracle. No more hand numbing contortions with a brush AND a dryer. The results are so good, it minimizes your flat iron time if it doesn’t eliminate it altogether. Best part? It’s way under $25!

Sephora Makeup Academy Palette

This might not be a steal, but it will get you squeals of delight and isn’t that what gift giving is all about? Plus, if you need that special shadow for that one special outfit, it’ll be as close as a trip down the hall.

Divergent Series Complete Box Set

If your teen hasn’t discovered this series yet, get this set in your shopping cart right now! Set in a futuristic dystopia where society is divided into five factions that each represent a different virtue, teenagers have to decide if they want to stay in their faction or switch to another – for the rest of their lives. According to Ellen’s girls, this series is a real page turner. The movie for the first book came out in March of 2014. We are firm believers in reading the book before the movie. Firm. Believers. So hurry up and get into this series before the rest of the movies drop.

And if you like Divergent, The Maze Runner is another great option . . .

The Maze Runner (Book 1)
The Maze Runner DVD or Blu-ray
The Maze Runner Dylan O’Brien Poster

Fans of dystopian literature will love The Maze Runner. (Confession: Ellen enjoyed the series immensely, too.) Please, please, please start with the book before moving onto the DVD. While the movie is exciting and pretty great, the book is full of rich detail that could not be crammed into the film. But speaking of details, the main character played by Dylan O’Brien is pretty easy on the eyes. This poster is topping Ellen’s daughter’s wish lists since they were fans before The Maze Runner even came out because of his role on MTV’s Teen Wolf.

Universal 3 in 1 Camera Lens Kit for Smart phones (including iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, HTC, Motorola and More), Tablets, iPad, and Laptops
We know that is a lot of words for a link, but to simplify–IT IS PURE AWESOME. If your teen is lucky enough to have a smartphone, then you know it’s a prized possession. Be a hero by making it even better with lenses that zoom, take wide angles, and produce cool fish eye effects. And it’s under $20! Best part? You might even be able to surprise her because she doesn’t even know she wants it.

SodaStream Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker Starter Kit

We’re not sure if the SodaStream is practical, but it sure is fun and that’s what gift giving is all about in our families. And Ellen’s family can attest that it’s also tasty. Ellen is not a big soda drinker, but even she is a fan of the mywater flavor essence (althooooooough, the root beer is pretty good). One great convenience is that the SodaStream doesn’t need any batteries or electricity to operate. It’s powered solely by the compressed gas carbonator that comes in the starter kit. Pretty cool.

Would You Rather? Board Game – Classic Version
We are huge fans of board games here at The Sisterhood. We play them at family gatherings, on random cold Saturday nights, and even on New Year’s Eve. This game is a favorite of all ages on those occasions, but it made the teen gift list because it is also a big hit at slumber parties. Maybe if you pull out this game at the beginning of the evening, you can avoid your own sleepover disasters. We’re rooting for you!

Clue
When we have a little more time, and some quiet, Clue is always a favorite. The intrigue gets us every time.

And if you have A LOT of time . . .

Risk Game
Because who doesn’t want to rule the world?

Mini Donuts Cookbook
Sunbeam Mini Donut Maker

Ellen’s family has such a fun time with this gadget.You can make a huge batch in no time because the donuts bake so quickly. The cookbook is really worthwhile, too. Ellen’s daughter recommends the Red Velvet recipe on page 49 (and so do Ellen’s hips as a matter of fact). One other tip: wooden chopsticks are great for lifting the donuts out.

Innergie PocketCell – Portable Battery Pack and Charger with USB Magic Cable Trio
This is the gift of power for your teen and the gift of peace of mind for you. Never fear a dead phone again–works for a variety of phones with the same Magic Cable (it has different adapters that you can flip around). Ellen can attest the battery pack holds it charge for quite a while just waiting to rescue you.

Soft Chevron Sheer Infinity Scarf
Infinity scarves are hot and this one is sizzling with its chevron print. It comes in a multitude of colors so you can give them to all of the teens in your life without them complaining about being “matchies.”

Fuzzy Winter Socks – Set 3
Girls love fuzzy socks. The end.

Remington Pearl Digital Ceramic Tapered Curling Wand
If your girl has long hair, this is THE curling iron that gives those trendy soft spiral curls. And this one won’t break the bank. Don’t be frightened off by the lack of clip: think no weird crimps at the bottoms of your curls. THAT is so 1988. But don’t fear third degree burns either because this one comes with a protective glove to protect your girl’s fingers.

The North Face Women’s Half Dome Hoodie

Teen girls love The North Face like they are embarking on a daily trek to Mount Everest instead of just traipsing into Chemistry class. This hoodie is one of the more economical ways to gift it. When you click and your size selection you will see that most of them are Prime eligible.

Sterling Silver Rhodium Plated Anchor Bracelet
Anchors are “in,” but this bracelet is sweet enough to survive the trend. It’s not too pricey either, so cry, “Anchors away!” and add it to your cart, Matey! (Please tell us you read that last part in a pirate voice. Please.)

One Direction 2015 Calendar
One Direction Duct Tape
One Direction is still going strong and since you can’t invite the lads over for dinner at least they can be with you all year long with this calendar. And in case you didn’t know, duct tape is B-I-G, so One Direction duct tape? AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

Okay and one more for good measure . . .

Crochet Lace Trim & Buttons Knit Boot Socks Black
Cold weather is all about the boots and adorable socks peeking up above them is the trendy way to go. Their feet will be extra warm in these. Now if we could only convince them wearing coats was a “thing.”

And just one more . . .

Fitbit Flex Wireless Activity + Sleep Wristband
Got an athlete who also likes tech? This helpful little tool tracks steps, distance, calories burned and active minutes. It also monitors quantity and quality of sleep and might just convince your teen it is time to get off of Netflix and get some more shut-eye.

Well, that last one was a little pricey and this one is super cool, so one more . . .

Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 Instant Film Camera
Shake it like a Polaroid picture! We know, this camera is by Fuji, but it gets better reviews than the instant photo camera by Polaroid, and that is what is important, all super fun retro hip hop songs aside. Your girl will love the novelty of seeing a photo print out instantly and you will love the nostalgia. The credit card sized prints are vintage-y and kitschy enough to appeal to anyone’s inner hipster.

Watches Made From Wood

Need some gift suggestions for the teen boys in your life? We have those right here!

Need even more ideas? Check out this great super-size guide!

Holiday gift guide for teens and tweens | Sisterhood of the Sensible Moms

Hope these lists give you some help, but we aren’t done. If you’re not an Amazon kind of person, Ellen has one more suggestion. How about adopting a kitten? One size fits all. (How fast are you scrolling back to the top now?)