You just announced your pregnancy, congratulations! Now what? While you’re cherishing every moment along the pregnancy journey, the next few months are the best time to get started on baby shopping. You’re probably planning your baby’s nursery and dreaming about purchasing clothes and blankets to bring baby home. If so, you’re going to need a baby registry. The best baby registries make it easy to keep all the baby gear and necessities that catch your eye together in one spot, so that those who want to shower can add items you love to their carts. There’s an endless list of registries out there, so to help, our team rounded up the best ones to sign up for — from Babylist to Target.

Best Baby Registries, at a Glance

Best Overall: Amazon Baby Registry
Best for Nursery Decor: Pottery Barn Kids
Easiest to Use Baby Registry: Target
Most Affordable Baby Registry: Walmart
Best Range of Products: Buybuy Baby
Best Registry App: Babylist

Is a Baby Registry Worth It?

Many expectant parents confirm that baby registries are worth the effort! These services make it a seamless experience to add the gifts you need for your baby, plus ones you would like to splurge on in one place. And, instead of re-iterating to friends and family every time they ask, “what do you need to get ready for baby?” you can quickly point them in the direction of your list. It’s also perfect for once your baby shower is invites to go out — all you have to do is pop your link to the invite, and that’s it! Those who can’t wait to spoil your bundle of joy can purchase gifts you will use and love for years.

In addition to how easy it is to use, a registry offers plenty of savings and perks (more on that ahead).

Common Baby Registry Perks

Baby registries have come a long way since I was newly pregnant. Now, most provide a welcome gift or package that’s filled with coupons for items like diapers, formula, and wipes. Many also give a 15 percent discount once your registry is completed! That means you can save even more by snagging all the items you need to welcome a newborn. Other perks are selected retailer’s price match its competitor’s deals and actually honor them, which allow those who are gifting you to take advantage of in-store and online deals.

Ahead, see the best baby registries ,according to our team of experts who happen to also be parents.

BEST OVERALL

Amazon Baby Registry

$50

Buy Now

It’s no secret that Amazon is home to the earth’s most extensive selection of items, according to the mega-retailer, and that also holds true for its baby registry. You can add as many products as you like that are all readily available for family and friends to purchase. Plus, you can create a diaper fund to the list and enable group gifting. We recommend adding the Skip Hop bathtub that grows with your little one.

Benefits: Free welcome box, 15% completion discount, free 1 year returns
Pros:
Large selection
Affordable brands
Fast shipping
Cons:
Can take multiple hours to build list

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BEST FOR NURSERY DECOR

Pottery Barn Kids

$899

Buy Now

Pottery Barn Kids is known for offering parents sustainable pieces that create a calming and soothing nursery that welcomes your little one home. Sign up for the brand’s registry and let those close to you help build their space. You can start by selecting a crib and gliders, perfect for those late-night feedings. PBK also offers bedding, toys, and baby gear all in one spot to make shopping a breeze.

Benefits: Free nursery design and registry services, 15% completion discount
Pros:
Guaranteed safety and quality materials
Organic bedding
Cons:
Expensive

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EASIEST TO USE BABY REGISTRY

Target

$25

Buy Now

“Target was my favorite baby registry to use when I was expecting! I enjoyed the fact that the products I was already planning to purchase were readily available from the retailer. The registry isn’t overwhelming to use — the categories are well organized, and you can find everything you need on a single list. It was so enjoyable for my friends and family to view as well. I recommend it to all of my friends who are expecting!” —Taylor Lane, commerce writer.

Benefits: Free registry returns, 15% completion discount, free welcome kit
Pros:
Free 2-day ship
Price match guarantee
Order pickup
Cons:
None!

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MOST AFFORDABLE BABY REGISTRY

Walmart

$11

Buy Now

Walmart’s baby registry allows expecting parents to add the cutest clothes, strollers, diapers, and more to their lists for a fraction of the cost. Those purchasing from the registry can take advantage of the retailer’s rollback prices when grabbing gifts. What’s not to love about this registry?

Benefits: Can filter items by category, scan to add in-store option
Pros:
Rollback pricing
Affordable brands
Free 1 year returns
Cons:
Returns must be done in-store

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BEST RANGE OF PRODUCTS

BuyBuy Baby

$550

Buy Now

BuyBuy Baby features an extensive range of products for your bundle of joy. We love that the big box retailer also offers plenty of options for the toddler stage as well. Signing up for the registry is simple — just input your personal details and get to find your favorite products from Doona, 4Moms, and more.

Benefits: 15% completion discount, white glove delivery service
Pros:
365-day return policy
Free shipping on orders $49+
Cons:
Not as easy as other options to use

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BEST REGISTRY APP

Babylist

$120

Buy Now

This registry app is one of the best out there. You can add items from popular brands and stores, which you can manage on your checklist. Friends and family can also gain access to your list to purchase and shop items quickly. Make sure to add the Milou Stay Clean Changing Pad to your list. The changing pad is crafted from a non-toxic foam material that is waterproof, and includes an antimicrobial surface that easily wipes clean.

“Absolutely the best registry app I’ve ever used. Very helpful with suggestive ideas, motivational comments, and easy access to other websites to add items directly onto your registry with just one click,” one expecting parent said.

Benefits: 15% completion discount, organized shopping lists
Pros:
Quick save button to add items
Can combine registries
Compares prices across dozens of stores
Cons:
Gifts purchased on Babylist can’t be returned after nine months

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Before you go, check out our slideshow below: 

It’s the most wonderful time of year: the “Ber” months! And while we are still excited for Halloween and Thanksgiving, of course, we are already mentally in Christmas mode. The bright lights, festive music, holiday cheer — what’s not to love?

But while Mariah Carey and a peppermint mocha will get us in the mood for the season, our kids might need a little something extra to feel holly jolly. That’s why we suggest getting them a present before Santa comes!

I know, I know. It sounds crazy, right? But these Christmas-themed toys are too adorable to resist. From LEGOs that double as décor to mini Christmas trees your kids can decorate themselves, these gifts are perfect for everyone as obsessed with the holiday season as we are.

LEGO Santa’s Sleigh Christmas Toy Building Set

$39.72

Buy Now

Build Santa and four of his reindeer in this adorable LEGO set that doubles as a cute shelf decoration. It even comes with a sleigh full of LEGO toys!

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Step2 My First Christmas Tree

$64.99 $74.23 12% off

Buy Now

This toddler-sized Christmas tree is a classic for a reason. It comes with little ball ornaments that kids can decorate the tree with, plus a little train that they can push around the track on the ground.

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Melissa & Doug Slice and Bake Wooden Christmas Cookie Play Food Set

$15.39 $27.99 45% off

Buy Now

Making the real thing is wonderful, but when it’s not time to bake, this Melissa & Doug cookie set is perfect! Kids can pretend to make cookies on the baking sheet, then pretend-decorate them!

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Bluey Amazon Exclusive 7-8" Plush Soft Toy Bundle

$15.99 $29.99 47% off

Buy Now

Even your kids’ favorite stuffies can get in on the holiday fun! These Bluey and Bingo plush toys come with the cutest Santa hats.

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BANBBUR 9 Pack Build a Snowman Kit

$12.78 $15.98 20% off

Buy Now

Perfect for parties or bored kids on winter break, this snowman craft encourages your kid’s creative side!

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LEGO DUPLO Santa's Gingerbread House Building Toy

$34.99

Buy Now

Kids 2 and up will love this LEGO DUPLO set, where they can build a gingerbread house, play with presents, and give Santa cookies and milk.

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2024 Holiday Barbie Signature Doll

$44.99

Buy Now

It’s not just a collectible! The 2024 Holiday Barbie comes with a gorgeous off-the-shoulder dress with a tulle bow and plaid skirt.

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Fisher-Price Little People Toddler Toy Musical Christmas Train

$28.99

Buy Now

How cute is this Christmas train? This Little People set comes with Santa, a reindeer, and an elf, plus a fun train that plays festive music.

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Everized Felt Christmas Tree for Kids

$28.99

Buy Now

Decorate this felt Christmas tree over and over again with the cutest felt ornaments. It even comes with real Christmas lights to make it even more fun!

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LEGO Christmas Tree Toy Building Set

$44.98

Buy Now

The LEGO Christmas tree set is designed for kids 12 and up because it is so complicated. It has 784 pieces, after all! Hours of fun will be had by all making this together.

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My First Gingerbread House 5-Piece Playset

$25

Buy Now

Gingerbread houses are great for making, but not for playing… Usually. But this soft, sensory version is perfect! Little ones can play with the gingerbread cookie toy, pretend icing tube, and sprinkle. The house even opens and all the toys can fit neatly inside.

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PicassoTiles Christmas Gingerbread House

$94.89

Buy Now

These Christmas PicassoTiles are so fun! They build a cute little gingerbread house and comes with a magnetic Santa, a snowman, a reindeer, and a Christmas tree. And the best part? They will work with other magnetic tiles you already have!

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Squishmallows Original 5-Inch Holiday 4-Pack

$19.99

Buy Now

Squishmallows are always a hit in my house, and this four-pack of mini ones are perfect for the holidays. It includes Ethel Hot Chocolate, Floyd French Fries, Keiko Blue Christmas Tree, and Ricardo Peppermint Bat.

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Magna-Tiles Limited Edition Grinch Magnetic Building Toys

$25.95 $47.95 46% off

Buy Now

He’s a mean one, Mr. Grinch — well, unless you flip him over to the nice side! These Grinch-themed Magna-Tiles are perfect for kids who love this iconic green character.

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Mickey and Minnie Mouse Holiday Imagine Ink

$5.13

Buy Now

This invisible ink coloring book is perfect for littles who can’t control the mess they make. And they’ll love the festive Mickey Mouse theme!

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Looking for some adorable stocking stuffers for your kiddos that won’t break the bank? Check out these options.

While your kids are probably counting down the milliseconds until they can start trick-or-treating — bubbling with excitement and the certainty that the night will only have treats — you’ve probably read the, er, horror stories and know just how much can go wrong on Halloween night. And we’re not talking about houses covered in toilet paper or eggs. We’re talking about how dangerous the night can be for young trick-or-treaters roaming the streets.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween compared to any other day of the year. It can be hard for drivers to see little ghouls and goblins who can’t wait to get to the next house, so it’s important to talk to kids ahead of time about how vital it is that they walk (don’t run!), stay nearby, and look both ways before crossing the street. But all that advice might go in one ear and out the other when they have candy on the brain, and so we compiled a list of five budget-friendly items that can help keep kids safe this Halloween.

Glow in The Dark Gaffers Tape

$15.88

Buy Now from amazon

The biggest problem tends to be visibility. It can be hard for drivers, other families, or stray animals to see your little one — especially if they’re in a dark costume. That’s why we recommend grabbing Glow in the Dark tape or reflective tape. In an ideal world, your child would let you put it on their costume, but if they’re putting up a fight, adding strips to their shoes and candy basket can be helpful.

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UCANBE Cruise Face & Body Painting Palette

$8.10 $13.99 42% off

Buy Now from amazon

As cool as masks can be, they can also be dangerous. Wonky masks can make it hard for kids to see where they’re going, so opting for face paint is a great way to make sure they see that crack in the sidewalk. And don’t worry, YouTube has a bazillion tutorials (we counted) to help you out. Just make sure to wash everything off with a gentle cleanser at the end of the night.

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EverBrite 9-LED Flashlight (9 Pack)

Batteries Included

Buy Now from amazon $15.99

You probably have a flashlight on your phone, but you’ll be too busy using it to take pictures of your little pumpkin to remember to use it to lead the way. The best part about this colorful set of flashlights? The batteries are included!

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CCINEE Halloween Light-up Rings and Bracelets (32 pcs)

$6.99 $7.99 13% off

Buy Now from amazon

I know, I know, “Broken record, much?” Visibility really is the name of the game tonight. With this 32-piece set of festive light-up rings and bracelets, visibility just became fashionable! Plus, these are a fun giveaway for a Halloween party or a great alternative to handing out candy.

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Tile by Life360 Mate

$24.99

Buy Now from amazon

As for kids who are going out on their own (or have a pesky habit of wandering way too far ahead!), we love these small Bluetooth trackers. Just pop one in their pocket or their candy bucket, and you can have some peace of mind watching their location. (If they put up a fight, remind them that the other option is that you tag along with them and their friends.)

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And don’t worry, this isn’t a one-and-done purchase. Tiles can also be used to track keys, bags, phones, luggage, and more, so you may want to go ahead and add a few to your cart.

Halloween is a night of mischief and merriment. Both you and your kids can enjoy it to the fullest knowing that they have an extra layer of protection — and you have valuable peace of mind.

However you nourish your baby — breast, bottle, or both — fed is best. If you opt for formula though, perhaps you’ve been scanning the grocery store shelves for a whole milk option. Well, do I have good news for you. Bobbie, the mom-founded formula company, has spent the last three years developing a whole milk recipe that’s inspired by breastmilk and it’s finally here. It’s a formula that you, your baby, and your budget will love. 

“There is no simple whole milk infant formula made here in the US — until now — and we’re excited to offer this to parents who want whole milk, want to support a US company, and want it at an affordable price,” says Mallory Whitmore, Bobbie’s Education Lead. 

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Bobbie is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Bobbie Whole Milk Infant Formula

$23

Buy Now

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Their brand new Bobbie Whole Milk Infant Formula uses a variety of organic ingredients that are gentle on your baby’s tummy all while encouraging healthy growth and development. Bobbie’s protein blend, with grass-fed whole milk as the base, features a 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio, just like mature breast milk. The result? A creamier taste your baby will love, with easy digestion that leads to soft poops. 

What Bobbie’s Whole Milk Infant Formula doesn’t include is just as important. You won’t find any synthetic ingredients that can disrupt national gut growth — no GMOs, no corn syrup or maltodextrin, no fillers, no hexane-extracted plant-based oils, no persistent pesticide residues, and, as Whitmore says, “No junk!” 

“Our new whole milk formula meets the gold standard of our Bobbie Product Promise just like the rest of our product suite, with high-quality ingredients and a simple, trusted recipe, containing everything a baby needs and nothing they don’t,” Whitmore says. 

There’s no going wrong with any of Bobbie’s formulas, but if you’re comparison shopping, Whitmore recommends evaluating your priorities to narrow down the best fit for you and your baby. 

Whitmore breaks down the options this way: “Is USDA/EU organic most important to the parent? Our Bobbie Organic formula is a great choice. Is whole milk (which contains MFGM) most important? Bobbie Whole Milk formula may be the right choice. Does the parent want a formula they can subscribe to online and pick up in retail if needed? Bobbie Organic is the way to go. Does the parent want a formula with a more accessible cost per ounce? Bobbie Whole Milk formula is the ticket. And, of course, we have Bobbie Gentle, which is made with a partially hydrolyzed protein and is for fussy feeders who need a tolerance formula.” 

At $23 per can, Bobbie Whole Milk Infant Formula is an affordable option that’s appropriate for most healthy, term infants. (Of course, check with your pediatrician if you have any questions.) Plus, for a limited time you can purchase one can and receive another one free!

The new formula is sold exclusively on hibobbie.com for now, but watch for it to be on Amazon soon and Target shelves in March. Another perk: if you choose to subscribe, not only will you receive free shipping and 10 percent, but you’re also locked into that price — no inflation! — for your baby’s entire feeding journey. 

Raise a baby bottle to that! 

Before you go, check out our slideshow below: 

If you’re not familiar with the adorably soft world of Squishmallows, it’s time to dive in — yes, even for folks just looking for some cute and huggable fall-themed decor that isn’t simply another take on the Pumpkin Spiced Latte.

These sweet stuffed characters have taken the world by storm with their irresistibly soft texture and character details. Among their ranks is the famed Pumpkin Spice Latte Squishmallow that everyone adores, but this fall, there’s a new fall drink-themed Squishmallow contender for your heart (and your couch): Mead the Red Apple Cider Squishmallow.

Adorned with an apple on his belly and a festive a cinnamon stick and slice of apple nestled in the foam on top, Mead perfectly captures the essence of a warm mug of cider on a brisk, fall evening, but somehow makes it even more cute and warm and fuzzy.

Squishmallows Official 8 inch Mead the Red Apple Cider

Buy Now $20

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For those who have already welcomed Mead into their fall Squishmallow collection, the reviews are nothing short of glowing. One satisfied customer shared, “I got this Squishmallow for myself. My friend and I were talking about them. She buys them for her daughter, and she loves them. I told her a while back that I wanted to start collecting something fun. So, I chose this Squishmallow. This is my first one… I can’t wait to collect more. It is going to be fun.” Another fan raved, “They’re so cute! Super soft and squishy, and lots of cute details.”

It’s no wonder that people are “obsessed” and calling it “beautiful and soft.” Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the Squishmallow craze, Mead the Red Apple Cider Squishmallow is the perfect plushie to give an extra squeeze the fall season. And let’s be real, we still love the Pumpkin Spiced Latte Squishmallow, too — we think they would make perfect couch companions during a scary movie marathon this fall.

Before you go, click here to see the best shoes and boots for your kids during the cold season: ]]> https://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/1234723874/mead-red-apple-cider-squishmallow/feed/ 0 1234723874 https://www.sheknows.com/parenting/slideshow/9942/halloween-books-kids-scary/ https://www.sheknows.com/parenting/slideshow/9942/halloween-books-kids-scary/#respond Sat, 19 Oct 2024 17:15:00 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/parenting/slideshow/9942/halloween-books-kids-scary/ If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

Real talk: I’m a shopping editor who just welcomed my first child this summer. ALL I had on the brain during my pregnancy was “what will *I* actually want as someone who is just became a new mom.” The answer? Honestly, a lot of things! Gifts that make my life easier. Gifts that make me feel special (it’s likely her first holiday season as a mother, and she’s maybe been looking forward to this for a long time). Gifts that pamper and feel indulgent. Gifts that aren’t just baby-themed (although, I do have some baby-related gifts I’m adding to this list).

10 Top Gifts for New Moms, at a Glance

Best Overall: Knix Light Leakproof No-Show High Rise, $26
Best Jewelry Gift: GLDN Rhone Band, $68
Best Dessert Gift: 1-800 Flowers, Cheryl’s Best of Buttercream Cookie Box, $35
Best No-Brainer Gift: Bath & Body Works Tree Farm 3-Wick Candle, $27
Best Postpartum Supplement: Ritual Postpartum Vitamin, $39
Best Nursing-Friendly Sleepwear: Petite Plume Pima Maternity Nightgown, $88
Most Universally-Appreciated Gift: Doordash Gift Card, prices vary
For the Ultra Sleep-Deprived Mom: Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine, $145
Best Diaper Bag: Dagne Dover, Wade Neoprene Diaper Tote, $215
Most Practical Gift: Nutrafol, Postpartum Hair Growth Supplement, $82
Best Self-Care Gift: Ancient Minerals Magnesium Lotion, $23
Best Loungewear Gift: Cozy Earth, Bamboo Jogger Pant, $132

New moms — at least the lucky ones — are often drowning in baby gifts: onesies, pacifiers, swaddles, those blankets for posing the baby on and circling how many months old they are, you name it. These presents arrive in droves in the weeks before and after the baby does. And yes, all those gifts are wonderful and thoughtful and generous. But they’re also all for… the baby. What are we moms, anyway? Chopped liver?

If you really want to make a new mom smile, give her something for herself.

Especially around holidays centered around mom, and even the holidays later on, a gift that acknowledges just how dang tough it is to have a new baby will mean so much. And that holds true (possibly especially) even if the baby isn’t newborn-new; those second three months are just as tough as the first! (This goes double if it’s her second or third kid. Yes, she has all the baby gear, but now, she’s twice as wiped out.) From new mom gifts, gifts for first time moms, the presents ahead are all about mom — and making her life easier at a time when she definitely needs all the help she can get. 

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Knix, GLDN, FreshDirect, 1-800 Flowers, and Bath & Body Works are SheKnows sponsors, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale. 

We love the concept of a “boo basket” for Halloween, and we’re not alone, since they’ve gone viral on TikTok — people are assembling boo baskets for their kids, their significant others, even their pets! If you’re curious about the boo basket trend, need some boo basket ideas of your own, or just want to celebrate Halloween in allllll the ways, read on.

What Is a Boo Basket?

Though it’s since been extended to include adults (and why shouldn’t it?!), the boo basket was originally thought up as a Halloween-themed surprise for the kiddos. Along the lines of Easter baskets and Christmas stockings, boo baskets are a collection of little, inexpensive treats and trinkets guaranteed to put a smile on a kid’s face. They’re perfect for kids who are sick or hospitalized and can’t go trick-or-treating, kids whose parents would rather give them a boo basket than a bucket full of candy, or kids who just can’t wait for Halloween (can you blame them? We can’t wait either!).

What Goes in a Boo Basket?

There’s no limit to the types of goodies you can stuff into a boo basket — silicone Halloween teethers and pumpkin PJs for babies who are too little for tricks and treats, Halloween craft kits and DIY project books for creative kiddos (with willing parents), even witchy wineglasses and glow-boosting pumpkin face masks for the more … mature Halloween aficionados. We’ve found plenty of cute boo basket ideas sure to conjure up that festive feeling!

Everybody likes fun surprises, so why not pack one up for someone you love — from tots to teens to everyone in between? We’ve made it easy by curating a collection of some potential boo basket stuffers for kids that caught our attention. They’re delightful, inexpensive, and a fun way to celebrate spooky season. Now that’s a boo-tiful thing!

Top 10 Best Holiday Gifts for Teens at a Glance

The One They’ll All Want This Year: Adidas Originals Samba, $100
Best for the Teen Who Loves to Sleep: Satin Short Pajama Set, $30
Best for Espresso Lovers: Short n’ Sweet – Lapis Lazuli LP, $38
Best for Teens Who Love a Vibe: BlissLights Sky Lite Evolve, $36
Best for the Gamer: DualSense Wireless Controller for PS5, $115
Best for the Teen Always on Their Phone: Anker Nano 3-in-1 Portable Charger, $45
Best for Snack-Lovers: DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker, $21
Best for the Teen With a Lot of Feelings: Wreck This Journal: Now in Color, $9
Best for the Fashionista: JW PEI Sharon Crossbody Bag, $89
Best for the Beauty Lover: Summer Fridays The Holiday Lip Butter Balm Set, $49

With that in mind, here are 35 presents that are great for anyone in those awkward teen years (or, you know, preteens/college kids, too). Most of these gifts also start at under $20, in case you need to pick something not-so-fancy up for your cool niece or kid’s favorite sitter. Maybe they’ll like it so much, they’ll even return the favor with a teen gift of their own — you know, like explaining to you what the hell TikTok is.