What To Get Your Teen For Christmas

SARATOGA SPRINGS — With Thanksgiving officially behind us, many are starting to gear up for the next big holiday of Christmas. Buying for a loved one is not always easy, especially if that loved one is a teenager. A list of this season’s must have gift items has successfully been narrowed down. For high school students, fashion is a necessity. Clothing is a great gift option for both boys and girls. Once you know your recipient’s personal style, it is hard to go wrong buying them apparel. Popular stores today include American Eagle, Forever 21 and H&M. “The number one thing on my Christmas wish list is a white pea coat,” says Kayla Barss, senior at Saratoga Springs High School. “As a girl, you can never have too many clothes.” In addition to fashion, it is crucial for teens to be up to date with today’s latest technologies. For Sprint carriers, the Galaxy phone has made the wish list of many. And for those with Verizon, the iPhone 5C is the mobile device one must be sure to have. “There are so many colors to choose from, but my favorite is the silver one,” says Mackenzie Hart, senior at Saratoga High School. “I love to take pictures and the picture quality on the 5C is so much better [than that of the iPhone 4].” Video games are also an option for those who spend a great deal of time in front of the screen. From Grand Theft Auto to Call of Duty, surely you won’t disappoint. Trying to please a sports fanatic? Surprise them with tickets to their favorite game. Not only does this ensure a day of fun, but it’s a gift that helps create a memory. If buying for a skier, treat them to a day, or season, at the mountain. If buying a ticket does not suffice, help to gear up by buying equipment. From Nike Air Jordan basketball sneakers to Oakley ski goggles, teenagers are sure to appreciate a gift that they will get good use out of. Not as exciting, but just as good, is the gift of money. By giving them money, you put the ball in their court as to where they wish to spend it. Gift cards also work wonders. Giving cash or its equivalent is easy, practical and pleases all ends. Who wouldn’t love to avoid the pain of shopping for someone who is fussy? “Typically, I just ask for money,” says Hart. “It’s either that or clothes and my family doesn’t know my taste really, so it’s just easiest.” Whether you’re spending an arm and a leg, or a minimal amount, this Christmas has the potential to be the best one yet. While general gifts are usually easiest, everyone knows the excitement of opening up that one gift they’ve been longing for. Happy holidays to all!