Gifts to buy your Gen Z teenager

While it may sound like an easy task, getting a gift can be tiring

In Summary
  • They are discerning and at times, hard to please.
  • Since you cannot ask your teen family members or friends what it is they want to receive, the Star did it for you.
A gift package
A gift package
Image: COURTESY

The holidays present a good time to appreciate our families and close friends.

It is a time for gifting and celebrating the moments we have had during the year.

While it may sound like an easy task, getting a gift can be tiring especially when you are intending it for a Gen Z teenager.

They are discerning and at times, hard to please. Since you cannot ask your teen family members or friends what it is they want to receive, the Star did it for you.

Fabian Mumo, a 19-year-old says the trick lies in the open.

"It is easy to decipher a teen. I know everything about us (Gen Z teens) says otherwise, but if you put your mind to it, it's easy," he said.

Mumo said you have to study your receiver first. What are their likes?

What's on their social media pages and what do they talk about?

There is a huge scope of items to buy from electronics to clothing and study materials.

In the process, remember to have fun. Enjoy the stores, window shop and take photos. 

Customised earrings - These are unique, and you get to choose what to tell your receiver through the gift.

Better still is the DIY clay earrings kit. It comes with everything one needs to make the accessories.

Books - If your teenager loves reading, why not get them a book? Make sure the cover is enticing. 

The quote, "Do not judge a book by its cover" is not so literal. However, make sure you read the blurb.

They can be self-help, memoirs or fiction, do not shy away from getting a copy for each genre if possible.

Customised bags - From a chic handbag, or monkey bag to a laptop bag, you can get one of these.

With different patterns, colours or writings, there's a wide range to choose from.

Shoes - This is a wide topic. But sneakers are common and gender-neutral.

They are supportive and can be paired with any type of cloth.

With different styles and types, it's easy to choose and if you are not sure, ask the buyer next to you.

Key organiser - I have a friend who sells key organizers, and they are the cutest things.

These accessories come in handy for your teenage girl or boy considering they come in different types. Some even have a USB drive or a penknife.

Ipods - Nothing can ever go wrong with this kind of gift. We all find ourselves listening to music or podcasts from time to time.

"Sometimes, we just want to appear as if we're busy listening to something," Mumo said.

Water bottle - With the conversation on environmental conservation, a water bottle will always come in handy.

It can be reused and is a good way to remind the receiver to keep hydrated

You can add a little touch by getting a customised bottle or DIY.

Chess Set or any game set- It's never a game night without a chess game.  If your teenager is not skilled in the game, it is not too late for them to learn.

A care package - Body lotions, body splash, lip balm and a bar of chocolate. This can serve as a Christmas gift and school shopping.

Other gifts you can get include a USB bracelet, a diary and watches.

Trip -It is Christmas. If you do not want to stroll in the stores and malls, get train or plane tickets and enjoy the sunny beaches in the coastal region.

You can also visit the Maasai Mara and create memories.

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