Teenagers will often give you many indications of what they like or feel they "need." So to select a good gift often times you just need to listen. Your teenager is likely to be expressing themselves in some way - even if it is with angry music and posters on the wall. But perhaps you don't know the teenager that well or you would rather steer them away from their current likes? You will find some great ideas in this article.
A true gift to a teenager is something that will help them enjoy life and develop into a balance adult. Gifts that promote isolation, open a teenager up to negative people and influences are damaging.
Be careful with buying technology for a teen - while the lure of an easy gift that your teenager is certain to be happy with - there are a few things to consider. As yourself is the technology age appropriate? Heaven forbid you get something that is for younger kids, how insulting! Does the technology give the teenager access to unwanted media and people - and if so can this be managed and blocked? Will the technology detract from helping that teenager communicate with their family, friends in a normal developmental way?
cameras
watches
digital photo frames
digital pen (converts your written notes to your PC)
telescopes
funky alarm clock
DJ mixing equipment
Gifts that Promote Socializing and Family Time
Gifts that encourage appropriate social and family time are a good investment. Heaps of teenagers love:
board games
sports equipment
movies
even 'Wii' games are a good alternative to just solo video games
These are great gifts that encourage teenagers to interact with others.
Gifts that Increase Confidence
Adolescence is a time when self-esteem is at an all time low. Some gifts can assist teenagers confidence in their appearance and sense of control. Gifts like:
well fitted gym clothes
skin care products
aftershave / perfume
suitable makeup item for a teenager girl like lip gloss or tanning lotion
girls also appreciate being educated on what colours are good for their skin tone, and what type of clothes are good for their body shape - there are plenty of books and DVD's on this sort of thing
gift vouchers allow the teenager to choose what they most desire (you can limit vouchers to a certain shop)
Teenagers also appreciate feeling prepared so practical gifts are also important:
building up a tool box full of essential hardware tools
good quality stationary
a cool wallet or bag.
accessories like scarfs, gloves, belts and hats
If buying stationary or accessories plain is often best like black or silver, unless you are really sure of your teenager's tastes.
shoes that help them walk better and feel better. A quality pair of ergonomically designer shoes make so much difference to how a teenager feels and walks
Learning is a big part of adolescents and many teenagers love to do so especially if it is practical education, something that helps them with their health, creativity or ability to live as an adult. The following are gifts that are of interest to most teenagers - boys and girls.
cooking classes
craft courses
metal work lessons
basic mechanic courses
Technology like the following are the are the lesser technological evils:
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Teenage-Gifts&id=5757135