A Parent’s Guide to Christmas Gifts for High School Students

By College Raptor StaffLast updated on November 20, 2023

The holiday season is just around the corner, which means it’s the time of year to rack our brains about finding the perfect Christmas gifts for high school students in our lives. If you have a high schooler, you know that finding a gift that will make their eyes light up can be a bit of a challenge at this age. 

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Christmas Gifts for High School Students By Category:

  1. Tech Gadgets
  2. Subscription Services
  3. Personalized Gifts
  4. Clothes and Accessories
  5. Sports Gear
  6. Experiences
  7. Books
  8. Self-care and Wellness
  9. Cooking and Baking Supplies
  10. DIY Kits

While we can’t give you a guidebook on how to read your teen’s mind, we can at least help you navigate the maze of teenage preferences and interests. Whether your teenager is a freshman, a sophomore, a junior, or even a high school senior, we’ve got you covered with some gift ideas. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, sit back, and let’s explore some thoughtful gift options for your high school student this Christmas.

1. Tech Gadgets

Tech gadgets are always a hit with high school students. From the latest smartphones and tablets to gaming consoles and headphones, there are so many tech-related gifts to choose from. Consider the following ideas:

2. Subscription Services

Subscription services are a gift that keeps on giving all year long. A lot of subscription services also offer students discounts. Here are a few popular options to consider:

  • Streaming services: A subscription to a streaming service like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or Apple TV+ can provide endless entertainment.
  • Music streaming: These subscriptions are great for music enthusiasts who love creating their playlists and sharing music with friends. Consider either Apple Music or Spotify.
  • Book subscriptions: For bookworms, book subscription services can provide access to a vast library of books, without the weight and extra space needed for an actual library.

3. Personalized Gifts

Personalized gifts can show that you put thought and effort into selecting something special for your high school student. You can get them anywhere from Etsy to Amazon. Consider these ideas:

  • Customized jewelry: A piece of jewelry with your teen’s name or initials can be a keepsake that fits into their style.
  • Personalized photo album: Create a photo album filled with pictures from special moments throughout their high school years.
  • Monogrammed backpack or school supplies: Practical and personal, monogrammed items are a great way to add a unique touch to everyday essentials.

4. Fashion and Accessories

High school students love to express their individual style through fashion. Stop in at any local boutique and ask the salesperson for tips. Consider the following fashion and accessory gifts:

  • Trendy clothing: Find out what’s in style and surprise your teen with some trendy clothing items that complement their preferences.
  • Designer handbags or wallets: A stylish designer accessory can make for a memorable gift, especially for a high school senior.
  • Sneakers: A cool pair of sneakers can be a welcome, versatile addition to any teenager’s wardrobe.

5. Sports Equipment

If your high school student is into sports, sports equipment can be a thoughtful and practical gift. Consider their favorite sports and look for gear they need or have been wanting. 

  • A new basketball or soccer ball.
  • Quality running shoes. Some great brands include Hoka, On Cloud, and Nike.
  • Gym gear or yoga mats for fitness enthusiasts.

6. Experience Gifts

Sometimes, the best gifts are experiences rather than physical items. Experience gifts can create lasting memories and expand your high schooler’s worldview. Try some of Here are the 10 best college music festivals.these ideas:

  • Concert tickets: Surprise your teen with tickets to see their favorite band or artist in concert.
  • Amusement park passes: A season pass to a local amusement park can provide days of fun throughout the year.
  • Art classes or workshops: If your teenager has a creative side, consider enrolling them in art classes or workshops.

7. Books and Educational Gifts

Consider these educational Christmas gifts for high school students who love to read or are preparing for college:

8. Self-Care and Wellness

High school can be stressful, and self-care is essential. These are great Christmas gifts for high school seniors considering they will be entering a new, sometimes stressful phase of life once college starts:

  • A spa day: Treat your teen to a relaxing spa day or a massage to help them unwind.
  • Aromatherapy diffuser: A diffuser with essential oils can create a calming atmosphere in their room, which is great for creating a calm environment for studying.
  • Gym or yoga membership: Encourage a healthy lifestyle with a membership to a local gym or yoga studio.

9. Cooking or Baking Supplies

If your high school student enjoys spending time in the kitchen, consider these gifts:

10. DIY Kits

DIY (Do It Yourself) kits can be a lot of fun for high school students who enjoy crafting or building things. Here are a few ideas:

Choosing the perfect Christmas gift for your high school student can be a delightful experience. Remember that the best gift is one that aligns with their interests and passions. Whether it’s the latest tech gadget, a personalized keepsake, an unforgettable experience, or something to nurture their hobbies and talents, your thoughtful choice will surely put a smile on their face this holiday season. Start your holiday shopping adventure, and make this Christmas a special one for your high school student! 

If you’re trying to think of Christmas gifts your high schooler can use for their years in college, consider shopping for some of these dorm room essentials.

By College Raptor Staff
Applying to college can be challenging, and so we at College Raptor feel it's our duty to make that process as easy, smooth, and rewarding as possible. We work hard to clarify dense material, dispel myths, uncover information, and help you learn what you need to know!