The 15 Year Old Young Man and What's Important to Him
Teen years are a period of tumultuous of change not only for the boy but for parents and others around him. Emotionally, psychologically and physically, the teen is undergoing a profound transformation which is bound to show up in his behaviour, his choices and his communication. Perhaps getting an understanding of what’s going on with the young man can be a starting point to figuring out a gift that’ll he will appreciate.
Figuring Out 'Who He Is'
Early teenage years are all about the boy trying to build his separate individuality. This often means he breaks away established patterns, pulls away from family and makes different choices than what perhaps his parents may have been making so far. For instance, he may decide that despite taking music classes for years, he now hates music and wants to stops his classes!
Building His Social Identity
Feeling the pressure to fit in, he may be preoccupied with questions like - is he part of the cool kids gang, is he well-liked by his peers, do girls like him. His focus may shift to creating his social identity – deciding who to hang outwith, his dressing style, leisure activities. One manifestation of this is him becoming perpetually attached to his smart phone and apps like Snapchat!
He's Thinking of His Future
Another big preoccupation for him (and his parents) is his future. For kids in India, academic pressure is intense and preparations start early. While some have a clear idea of what they want to pursue, others may be still exploring options. Whatever be the case, one of the most important things to do at this age is to allow him to explore his interests, his likes and dislikes. Gifts that help in this can be really useful for him.
Pay Attention to These 4 Aspects While Picking a Gift for the Teenager in Your Life
Getting a gift for a teenager can be a tricky challenge. A lot of what he may have liked so far may not remain relevant, so you'll have to figure out anew what would make him smile on his special day. Tough as it may be, we can try getting it right by paying attention to these 4 tips
#1 Cool and Trendy but Matching His Personality
While not all teens may not crazy about being "with it", nonetheless having the latest and trendiest stuff would give them a special thrill. Spend some time reading up online or perhaps look around to see what the kids are carrying or doing to get an idea of what the 15-year old boy may like. You can always tweak the gift idea as per your budget and his preferences.
Encourages Social Bonding
During the teen years, it is common for parents to see their son becoming less involved in family life. In some cases he may prefer the company of his friends, but in other cases he may in fact just prefer to be alone. While alone time is indeed a pivotal need for teens, too much isolation can be harmful. Look for gifts that subtly that will help the teen maintain his social bonds - his family, friends etc.
Helps Him Explore His Interests
Teenagers are still finding out what they want to do with their lives. Become an engineer? Make a career out his passion? Find a new career path? Some of them may be very clear but others could be still in the phase of figuring it out. In either case a great gift could be something that helps him deep dive into a new hobby or it could be something to give a boost to his budding talent. For example, if he is showing interest in coding and programming, you could buy him a coding kit.
Encourages Personal Expression
Slowly but surely, the little boy is coming into his own. He is keen to show off his personal style - whether it be in his clothes, or his interests. Give his individuality a boost by giving personalised gifts created just for him. It will make him feel more adult-like and he will appreciate your support of his changing needs.
11 Interesting Birthday Gifts That are Sure to be Appreciated by a 15-Year Old Boy
Tech Toys for His 15th Birthday
Kiditos Syma Drone with WiFi Camera Live Video
This app-controlled drone is perfect for a gadget-mad teenager boy! The Syma X22 features an amazing 360 degree stunt flip which means it can do any number of exciting aerial maneuvers.With a flying height of 50 metres and a camera with headless mode, it can awesome photos and videos from air. Its Built-in 6-axis gyroscope stabilizer helps accurate positioning in flight which also improves its hover function The drone is easy to operate with simple keys for all functions like landing or take off forward, backward, sideward etc. The drone costs Rs.5,999 on amazon.in.
AvishkaarBox E-Series Robotronics Full Kit (Grey)
This self-learning kit can give the 15 year old a hands on introduction to robotics, electronics and mechanics. One of the most comprehensive robotics kits available in the market the AvishkaarBox Robotronics Kit can create over 40 robot models using programming.
The kit has all the necessary components including metal strips, gears, motors, wheels, for the assembly of robots, the control panel, and sensors to create robots. A software interface for building the robot and a remote control to operate has been included. The different robots that can be built include black line follower, obstacle avoider, humanoids. Buy it for Rs.8,500 on amazon.in.
Gamer Gifts for a 15 Year Old
Fortnite (Or Any Game He is Itching to Play)
If the young man is a serious gamer, then he is sure to enjoy receiving a new game. You could either buy him any game that he's been very eager to play, or you could get him the latest trending game (appropriate for his age). For example, the current game that's a current rage is Fortnite so that is something you can buy for him, but do check with him before doing so. This particular version costs Rs.3,999 on the Playstation Store.
Sony PS4 500 GB Slim Console
The best gift ever for someone getting into gaming: the Sony PS4. He will have a gaming setup that will allow him to enjoy his hobby to the fullest extent – play and store various games, comfortable gaming experience and convenient gaming. This gift is however a very expensive one so make sure it is really appropriate. If you buy this one available at Amazon for Rs.31,990, it come with three free games - Gran Turismo - Sport, Uncharted 4 and Horizon Zero Dawn.
Gifts for a Fun Time
CXM R2-Hoverboard - Self Balancing Electric Scooter
Hoverboards are the ride of the future! These cool gadgets will make for an amazing gift for your teenager. The CXM R2-Hoverboard is a self-balancing electric scooter that can ride at a speed of up to 12 kmph powered by 250w motors and smart engineering. It meets all necessary standards so you can be assured of its safety With its easy touch features, the hoverboard is simple to learn and operate.
Other features include LED lights, 3 riding mode and rubber bumpers. The board can be controlled via an app which allows limiting several aspects including riding speed, mileage, and driving force. For those worried about servicing, the brand has service centres across India. Available for Rs.19,999 at Amazon.
Mayfair Games Catan 5th Edition
As a group activity, board games are an amazing way to bond and have fun. Many teens start shying away from hanging out with family saying they are bored. Board games offer an interesting way to bring the family together. Not only will the teen have fun, you would have also spent time as a family. The Catan is a highly rated game globally, and is touted as an amazing family entertainment option. Based on the remote island of Catan that is rich in natural resources, the settles (or players) must tame and build a settlement. The unique setting of the board ensures that no two games will be alike. Available for Rs.3,995 at Amazon.
Concert or Cricket Match Tickets
For a teenager, having a chance to see his favourite band live or witness an exciting cricket match is bound to be a matchless one. Keep an eye on the concert schedule of his favourite artists. Look up sites like bookmyshow.com for suggestions and option. For cricket matches, you can reliably get one during the IPL season. Prices will differ depending on the experience.
Cool Gadget Gifts for Teens
Huawei ERS-B19 Band 2 Classic Activity Tracker
Smart watches, activity trackers are some of the hottest gadgets today. Give the young man a sleek activity tracker - it will make him look cool and spark an interest in tracking his health. The Huawei ERS-B19 Band 2 Classic Activity Tracker is a reasonably priced fitness tracker that comes with a host of features such as tracking daily activities and sleep status, displaying alarms and notifications.
He can access health data like step count, calories burned and distance covered and sleep data. With a classy coloured band and an elegant dial, this water-resistant band is a perfect gift for a stylish teen. Available at Amazon for Rs.4,330
JBL T450BT Extra Bass Wireless On-Ear Headphones with Mic (Black)
If the young man loves music, then get him this fantastic Wireless On-Ear Headphones from JBL. The headphone guarantees the famed JBL pure bass sound which makes listening to music an amazing experience. The handy controls available on the ear cup give easy access for calls and music. Lightweight and flat -foldable the headphones are extremely convenient to carry. Since it features Bluetooth 4.0, it assures seamless connectivity and clear sound. Buy it for Rs.2,889 at amazon.in.
Gifts to Make Him Look Better
Personalised Leather Wallet
A cool gifting idea for teen is a wallet customised just for him. Pick out a men's wallet from thejunket.in where in addition to inscribing his name via metal letters you can also add a cool charm. The wallet is designed to have 2 compartments to store currency notes plus slots for cards and a hidden compartment. You can get it from the site for Rs.800. Available wallet colours: black, grey, green brown and tan.
Philips S1030/04 Wet and Dry Electric Shaver
One of the essential accessories for a young man is a good shaver. Taking care of his facial care will soon be an important part of his routine so why not get him something that makes this chore a breeze. The cordless Philips Wet and Dry Electric Shaver is an excellent starter shaver for the 15 year old. It has 3 flex heads that operate independently, which results in a great shave very time without any nicks or cuts. It is designed ergonomically to give a good grip and makes the shave a mess-free operation. Available on Amazon for Rs.1,399.
Stay Connected with Your Teenage Son
The teen years are seen as a dreaded period for parents. The child often transforms into someone entirely different and parents feel they have lost the bond that they had shared so far. It may be tough but not impossible to have an open line of communication during this phase. Here are few tricks to that may help.
Persist in Showing Interest
The days of your child chatting with you voluntarily may be long past, but don’t let that faze you. Continue your attempts to draw them into conversation - ask them questions about school, their interests, new hobbies or activities. Remember to be patient and not be disrespectful. Treating them as adults will go a long way in developing an enriching relationship.
Regularly Talk About Tough Topics
Regardless of the lack of interest expressed by the teen, be sure to discuss tough topics in a gentle and understanding manner. Be it his grades, sexual activity or any poor habits - you must initiate the talks with him. It will help you tackle any budding problems and he will know you care.
Create a Safe Space
Aggressive, angry, uncontrollable - these are typical descriptors of teen boys. The insane hormonal changes, the challenges and peer pressure could all make him feel unconformable and vulnerable. His home must be a safe space. Adopt a non-judgemental approach, cut down on unnecessary criticism and negative comments – instead, correct him with love. This will help encourage him to open up about his feelings.
Get Creative About Connecting with Him
If your child is not interested in holding conversations, as a parent, you will have to get creative about ways to connect with him. Try finding a shared activity or ask him to introduce you to his interest like gaming. You could discuss books, sports events - even social issues. He will love having an engaged parent who respects his opinions and talks to him with respect.
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
Constant nitpicking can result in your son pulling away. It can create a negative environment and affect your son's self-esteem. So let go of the small stuff- the mildly dirty room, stubbornness about clothes etc., but keep the pressure on for the big stuff- grades, future plans, basic hygiene, and attitude.
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He's different, come to terms with it
He's your son, nephew or grandson, but he is a completely different person. Add to that the generation gap and teen angst and you have a person who's not always easy to understand. But you're not meant to completely know him, all you can do is be sympathetic, supportive or firm as needed. He needs to figure some things out on his own and you can help but you cannot live his life for him.