Gift ideas for kids age 12-14

This age group is navigating a major transition period, from childhood to young adulthood. Gifts that acknowledge their growing independence while still being age-appropriate work best. They want to feel more grown-up and often care deeply about fitting in with their peer group, so they often appreciate trendy or “cool” items. Technology starts becoming more important, so we have plenty of ideas for kids age 12-14.

Technology and electronics

• Wireless earbuds or high-quality headphones for music and calls.
• Bluetooth speakers with good sound quality for their room.
• Digital camera or action camera for photography and video creation.
• Streaming device subscription or gift card for music/video services.
• Laptop or tablet for school projects and creative work.
• Portable charger and phone accessories such as cases or PopSockets.
• Gaming system or games for systems they already have.
• Gaming accessories such as controllers, headsets, or gaming chairs.
• Smartphone or phone upgrades (if parents approve and it’s in budget).

Fashion and personal style

• Trendy clothing from brands their friends are wearing – UNLESS you’re trying to teach them not to follow the crowd.
• Sneakers, especially limited edition or popular styles.
• Jewelry, such as layered necklace, ring, or a watch that fits their aesthetic.
• Bag or backpack that is both functional and stylish for school.
• Hair accessories and styling tools appropriate for their age.
• Makeup starter kit with age-appropriate products (if parents approve).
• Room decor that reflects their developing personal style.
• Personalized items such as custom phone cases or water bottles with their name.

Creative and artistic pursuits

• Advanced art supplies such as professional markers, digital drawing tablets, or easels.
• Craft kits for more sophisticated projects such as resin art or advanced friendship bracelets.
• 3D pens or other high-tech creative tools.
• Musical instruments they’ve expressed interest in learning.
• Photography equipment such as a tripod, lighting, or photo editing software.
• Video editing software or equipment for creating content.
• Writing supplies such as quality journals, pens, or creative writing books.
• Fashion design kits with sketching supplies and fabric samples.

Books and learning

• E-reader. Kindle, Kobo, Nook, BOOX.
• Young adult novels, such as The Chronicles of Narnia (timeless and for any age, really), The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings (same as Narnia – timeless and for all ages), or The Lunar Chronicles (fairytale retellings of Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Snow White). For more ideas, check out this YouTube video, *actually clean* Book Recommendations For Teens!, from a young woman named Arlin. She reviews at least two dozen books in this video. I’ve read a few of her picks (as an adult), and you’re bound to find something great for the teenagers on your list.
• Graphic novels (aka comic books) with themes appropriate for their age.
• Books about their interests, whether sports, science, history, or hobbies.
• Biographies about people they admire or want to learn from.
• College prep books or study guides if they’re academically motivated.
• Creative writing guides if they enjoy writing stories or poetry.

Sports and fitness

• Gym memberships or fitness class passes (with parent involvement).
• Sports equipment for teams they’re joining or sports they’re serious about.
• Fitness trackers or smartwatches with health monitoring features.
• Workout clothes and athletic gear from popular brands.
• Bicycles upgraded for their size and interests (mountain, road, or hybrid).
• Skateboard or longboard equipment and safety gear.
• Sports lessons or camps for skills they want to develop.
• Home workout equipment such as resistance bands or weights.

Experiences and activities

• Concert tickets for artists they love (with appropriate supervision).
• Movie theater gift cards for going with friends.
• Escape room experiences or similar group activities.
• Classes or workshops in areas they’re interested in (cooking, coding, art).
• Amusement park passes or adventure activities.
• Shopping trips with a budget to spend on things they choose.
• Restaurant gift cards for places they can go with friends.
• Subscription boxes tailored to their interests (books, snacks, beauty, etc.).

Games and entertainment

• Board games designed for teens and adults that they can play with family or friends.
• Puzzle games with 1,000+ pieces or 3D puzzles of complex designs.
• Video games rated appropriately for their age group.
• Card games such as Sequence or Uno variations.
• Strategy games that challenge their developing critical thinking skills.
• Group games perfect for sleepovers and friend gatherings.

Room and personal space

• Room makeover items such as new bedding, curtains, pillows, or furniture.
• LED strip lights or other ambient lighting for their space.
• Mirrors with good lighting for their daily routine.
• Storage solutions that help them organize their increasingly complex belongings.
• Desk setup with good lighting and organization for homework and hobbies.
• Comfortable seating such as bean bags or lounge chairs for their room.
• Wall art or posters that reflect their interests and personality.

Personal development and independence

• Cooking classes or cookbook for beginners.
• Personal finance books or apps designed for teens.
• Time management tools such as planners or apps to help with school and activities.
• Self-care items such as skin care products, bath bombs, or relaxation tools.
• Organization systems for their increasingly busy schedules.
• Goal-setting journals for their future plans.