Readers have been asking for another hard-to-shop-for guide — think: teenagers, in-laws, and teachers — so we were happy to put one together. Here are tons of ideas, most of which are under $30…
TEENS AND TWEENS:
Preteen and teens are notoriously hard to shop for, so a few ideas: First off, a crushed ice tray for those who would give their left arm for a cold can of Dr. Pepper. The Believer’s special sports issue — including a close read of Steph Curry’s legendary Olympics performance and an interview with open-water swimmer Amy Appelhans Gubser — would be fun to pore over together, and gift cards to Zara or local cafés are always a hit. Cord earbuds are back in style (who knew?), and Anton and I just started Jason Reynolds’s track book series — omg, his books are such page turners! Twelve-year-old Anton also asked for a Bop It Extreme/my personal hell; and getting to choose between 10 mini cereal boxes is one of my core childhood memories (you, too???).
TEACHERS:
Teachers make the world go ’round, so how can we express our gratitude? Warm socks are always nice — “I was introduced to Le Bon Shoppe socks by a student’s family years back,” says a reader named Kristina — as are gift cards to local cafés, lunch spots, or Target. Consider sharing specific reasons you adore them, says a teacher named Kristyn: “I pin thank-you notes behind my desk to cheer me on tough days.” And “emailing our bosses to share an anecdote about something we did is THE BEST,” adds Whitney. Keep in mind, “teachers have allllll the mugs,” says Katie, but kids themselves can do no wrong, says Sarah: “A leaf your child found will bring me to tears every time.”
IN-LAWS/GRANDPARENTS:
For the in-laws or grandparents, make them feel seen with a book about their passions — say, travel, painting, or quilting. For breakfast lovers, you could give a photo mug of the grandkids or a handy cooker for making the perfect jammy eggs. Send wintery beers from Athletic Brewing — no alcohol, all delicious; and ensure they have a cozy winter with taper candles and pretty matches.
Thoughts? What would you add? What other stumpers do you have in your life?
P.S. Last year’s hard-to-shop-for guide, and the complete 2025 Cup of Jo gift guide!
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