Tech Gifts for Teens and Tweens

An Ipod Touch has been on the list for years, but each of my girls was thrilled to receive a standard iPod – much less expensive and with far less chance of being broken by a careless tween

Xbox Kinect Keep kids moving with this fun gaming gadget. There are a variety of Kinect-enabled games for kids of all ages. Check out Just Dance Disney, Fruit Ninja, and even serious video games like Skyrim with added features for the Kinect.
Photo credit: Whatley dude

Take a look at deep discounts on older generation iPhones. The teen got an iPhone 3G last year and couldn’t be happier. They don’t necessarily need the latest and greatest to make the most of their tech gifts.

The teen just got a tablet from school. It’s about half the cost of an iPad, but the girls are all over it. There are a number of Andoid and Windows tablets on the market with great reviews for a lot less money.

With wireless headphones, the girls can dance around their rooms, do their chores, and still be connected to the music they love.

Smaller than a laptop and far less powerful, a so-called netbook could still offer teens and tweens what they need – which is really just an internet machine. The teen does her homework through Google Drive, watches videos and searches the web, and uses her notebook to stay connected to friends through email and Facebook.

My girls all love making their own videos and taking pictures. Steer clear of products geared specifically to kids. They may be cheaper, but it’s often a get-what-you-pay-for situation. Instead, look for deals on products with good reviews that will be sturdy enough for your teens and tweens.

Keep in mind that tech gifts don’t have to be brand new to be appreciated. Around here, Santa leaves a big Christmas gift open, setup, and ready to play. The kids would have no idea it didn’t come brand new. Refurbished products typically come with a warranty, just like new.