About Gayathri K.

Teenagers are perhaps the most unique human breed in the world- complicated and confused! By the time you begin to understand your 14 year old, she turns 15.. and you need a whole new book of strategies! They are at that crazy point when they are trying to figure out who they are and what they want to do with life. It’s definitely a befuddling period for them, but what’s even more baffling is trying to shop for a teenager! Here’s a common mantra for moms – If u like it, your teen probably won’t.

How Do I Get It Right?

Whether you’re shopping for a gift or just buying basic stuff, it’s pretty difficult to correctly guess what your kid will want. With teenagers it’s very hard to bridge the gap between what’s apt and what’s appropriate. Remember, what was stylish when you were 19 is so far out you can’t even see it on the horizon! Don’t worry my fellow mommies, being cool is complex, but not impossible!

The best way to get them, is to ask. When you take the time to really listen, you’ll be surprised at how much they unknowingly reveal about themselves. Are they into sports or books, or do they have a particular passion like dance or theater? Music is generally a shoo-in with teens and if you buy them stuff related to their favorite band, like a t shirt or a CD , you can’t go wrong. Go one step further and look up the band’s official website, so you can purchase a fan club membership or concert tickets.  If you’re really not sure what they like, go for music accessories like stereo headphones, an ipod shuffle or something like a personalized CD book. Other easy ideas in this line are gifts related to their favorite star or movie, video games or sleek new laptop supplements!

Keeping it safe

Shopping for teen clothes may seem harder than climbing a mountain- one wrong choice and it’s all downhill from there! This is where you stay safe- a denim mini, black tights, cream capris etc. Let them top it off with whatever they want to wear, so it’s not a ‘my-mummy-bought-me’ outfit! I would say, the best thing you can do is getting a gift certificate from a quality store. That way you are giving them a free rein in clothing choices, plus you know the money is actually getting spent on their wardrobe!

On many occasions mothers-of-teens feel insignificant and pushed to the background! You can’t impress your kid by bordering on ordinary. Though it seems like a bold choice to decorate their room, your teenager will be mighty thrilled if you actually keep their preferences in mind. They would also love to get something they can use personally, like a funky electric toothbrush, a stylish manicure kit or even a super comfy Lazy-Boy recliner to lounge on!

Remember yourself, Mom

A friend of mine once said “It’s difficult to decide if ‘growing pains’ are something teenagers have- or are”! But remember- it was once you, and then you grew… Hey cool mommas, you have style and personality too, so be confident in your shopping and they will one day admire you for it!