Teenagers eagerly craft their holiday wish lists, revealing a shifting preference from childhood toys to more practical and lasting gifts. As the holidays approach, many Wakeland students are prioritizing items that offer long-term value and personal style.

At the top of my Christmas list are clothes and a Kindle, which will give me more long-lasting joy than a temporary toy. When I looked at my friend’s Christmas lists, clothes emerged as a common theme.

When I skip creating a wish list, my parents get me what they think  I want. But parents don’t always get teenagers the right things. Last year I got lots of the things I wanted, like clothes, but  I also got things that quickly lost their appeal, like bath bombs. 

My gifts could be a result of some websites recommend getting practical gifts. A New York Times article suggests things like a wallet, a first aid kit, and a tech organizer. Though these gifts aren’t inherently bad, I don’t think they would excite most of my friends or classmates.

“Sometimes we just don’t know what to get for that special person,” said Vihaan Kalidindi, a junior at Wakeland.

“[That’s why we look] for compiled gifts within different categories to help decide what gifts are worth your money.”

But the answer is simple: Useful and stylish will be the long-term gifts teens seek. I know that I would rather have a new hoodie than have a stuffed animal. Though clothes may cost more, they ultimately outlast toys.

Beyond material possessions, my Christmas list includes experiences. As a hockey fan, I would love to go to a hockey game during the school break.  Even though an experience isn’t a thing you can hold, you can still make memories that will last forever. 

“There’s nothing that I really want, because I’m looking forward to going to Houston,” said Hayden Rogers. “We go to see my grandparents and spend time with my family. It’s been hard to come up with a gift list.”

Not all teens desire practical items, with some of my classmates still enjoying toys like Legos, which offer fun challenges or enjoyment of their hobbies. I personally would appreciate more painting supplies. Most teens actually prefer gifts that can simplify their lives. 

“Air pods, because my current ones are disgusting” said Alixandra Gaskins, a freshman at Wakeland. “I listen to music all the time and mine are wearing out, and the battery doesn’t last very long.

It’s going to be more practical.” 

“I want new soccer cleats,” said Daniel Velo, a junior club soccer player. “Not just because it would be nice to have brand new cleats, but the structure on the bottom of the new shoe is better, and the support is better for your foot.”

They are not the only Wakeland students exemplify this trend for gifts that simplify and add joy to their lives. Parents should know what their teens spend time on, and what they value. If they with a categorized list, they might miss the mark.