Grandchildren are great fun to buy for, as long as grandma and grandpa have an idea what they will like. Since most teens are into technology, and technology is changing daily, the task of buying gifts for teens has become exponentially more difficult. Choosing gifts for teenage grandchildren, like dealing with teens in general, requires a grasp of what's hot and what's not, as well as knowing the individual. This list of gifts for teenage grandchildren includes some high-tech choices and some low-tech options. These gifts should fill the bill and prove to be popular with young adults as well.
1. Buddha Board
The Buddha Board has the instant attracting power of a novelty toy, but the charm doesn't wear away. A special composition allows the user to create a painting using only water. The painting doesn't last but gradually fades away, leaving the coast clear for the next budding artist, or Buddha artist. Great for dorm rooms.
2. Holga 120N Film Camera
A camera that shoots real film? What a concept! It's true. The young and hip have embraced a new kind of photography, often called lomography, that uses inexpensive plastic cameras and actual film. The imperfections are part of the fun, as is waiting for your film to be developed. This new-old style of camera is not for everyone, but for some teen grandchildren, it could be the perfect gift.
3. Apple iPod Nano 8 GB
The iPod Nano has returned to its roots. It's all about the music. The Nano lacks video capabilities, but its smaller size and its sexy little touch screen will win teenagers' hearts. There's a clip for easy wearing, and it can even be worn on a strap as a watch, with 18 clock face designs to choose from. All this, and the battery power should last up to 24 hours.
4. Madden NFL 12
I must admit that I'm not a football fan and lack the expertise to judge this latest version of the Madden video franchise. What I do know is that most of my family and friends who are sports lovers are mad for it. Also, it's available for most major gaming systems. I also know that it is visually stunning, and players say that the animation is significantly improved.
5. Crocheted Black Cat Headphones
Your teen grandchild will get all the attention when she sports these black cat headphones. They're soft on the ears and compatible with most devices. If your granddaughter wants something a little less edgy, she might enjoy plain crocheted headphones in a variety of colors from the same maker, or a set that boasts a perky bow.
6. Johnny Cupcakes Tee
Cupcakes aren't just for eating. They are also for wearing. This quirky clothing company is riding a wave of popularity, and the new Nickelodeon series can only help. Giving a Johnny Cupcakes tee to a grandchild will definitely up your cool quotient.
9. Flip Mino Pocket Camcorder
With the popularity of YouTube, almost every teen fantasizes about making a viral video. The Flip Mino is a fairly inexpensive, easy way to scratch that itch. Sleek enough to fit into any pocket, the Mino is customizable with a variety of looks. For a little more money, you can buy a Mino that shoots in HD and has 4 GB of internal memory instead of 2 GB.
10. Inheritance Cycle Boxed Set
If your teen is a Christopher Paolini fan, this hardcover boxed set is a surefire hit, as it includes the recently released fourth book in the series, Inheritance, just released on Nov. 8. If your teen hasn't sampled Paolini but has a taste for fantasy, the boxed set is worth a try. Some teens will prefer the ebook or audiobook version, so check before you opt for the old-school format.
11. Apple iPhone
The phone that revolutionized the whole concept of cell phones is still a smoking hot gift. The hefty price tag means that it won't be in many grandparents' budgets. If you can afford it, it's a great help in staying connected with teens.
12. Visa Gift Card
You know how it is with gift cards. Some people love them; some hate them. Teenagers tend to love them. The Visa gift card wins their hearts because it can be used almost anywhere, even when shopping online or by phone. (Does anyone shop by phone any more?)














