(Inside: Fun mom t-shirt ideas. I’ve always been a shirt collector: vacations, teams, schools, and mom t-shirts. I love clothes that are cute and comfy.)
And a cute t-shirt or sweatshirt that fits just right.
There’s just something about putting on warm, soft clothes that I think are at least somewhat-stylish (I’m not going for perfect) that helps me transition from work-mode to mom-mode. It’s a routine I always look forward to; the little things really do matter.
Normally, I have trouble spending money on myself. Life is so expensive, I find myself often paying for something bigger, like an alto sax so my kid can march in the band, and then placing the clearance-priced pair of yoga pants back on the rack because $9.99 at Target is too much to spend on me.
But, I just really enjoy my comfy mom t-shirts and wear them all the time. Because of that, my collection of mom t-shirts is growing, and I’m not even sorry.
It is just an area that I will let myself spend money on.
Hardworking momma, you also deserve to have those routines that are bright spots on your day: a cup of coffee, music relaxing you as your drive home, or comfy clothes that wrap their arms around you and remind you that your role as a mom is the best ever.
These are the current mom t-shirts I have my eye on. I’m making a list, checking in twice, gonna refresh my wardrobe a little. I thought you might what too, as well…
Hands down this MAMA shirts is my favorite. So simple and classic. I love pink, but there are myriads of colors to choose that will match anything. This one I could get away with wearing at work with dress pants and a sweater. Or for just my at-home joy. Yup – it’s at the top of my wish list.
Where was this shirt when I was pregnant? Tacos and babies. Two of my favorite things. If you’re a click younger than me and still in this phase, announce to the world that you’re a mama-to-be with these clever Eating Tacos for Two t-shirts. I’m remembering this cute tee for my next baby shower. Because, again, where was this shirt when I was pregnant?
Where my girl moms at? Sport this fun Girl Mom/Mama t-shirt any day of the week. Your daughters are sure to love seeing your girl mom pride. This tee will easily become a staple in your wardrobe.
As a mama of 3 incredible boys, I have a big ol’ soft spot in my heart for any boy mom t-shirt. This Life is Better with my Boys tee hits home. It’s the message that I want my boys to hear, and the message that I need to hear on the best days and the hard days. ‘Tis true. Life is most definitely better with my boys.
Doesn’t parenthood sometimes feel like you’re in the trenches? These camouflage Mom Life tees give off a fun vibe with the right amount of “Mom life requires hard work” on the side. The best thing about this shirt? It comes with a matching camouflage Kid Life t-shirt that works for both a son or a daughter. Camouflage has always been one of my favorite designs to wear – it always hits the mark.
I loved sports growing up. It was a big part of my high school and college experience, so I wanted to share that side of myself with my sons. I’m so glad they like sports too. They don’t have to be top athletes on the top teams, I just love seeing them moving and having fun. So, yes, a sports mom tee is, of course, going to make it onto my list. Especially this basketball mom shirt– it’s perfect. When’s Christmas?
We’ve all been there. Those days that feel a little bit out of control. he days the jug of milk gets tipped, the kids can’t get along, and we’re running late. The days where This is my Circus, These are my Monkeys seem to ring a little extra true. But even in those days, we can be so thankful for our little monkeys that we get to call ours.
I remember thinking I was tired before I had kids. Then I had kids. Yeah, I was NOT actualy tired before. This #momlife tee is cute and accurate and goes with anything in your closet. Yup, I like it.
If there’s one t-shirt that states the truth more than this, I need to see it. Chaos coordinator is a badge of honor for the mamas of the world. We hold so many of the THINGS together. Appointments, birthdays, piano recitals, switching the laundry, and remembering the last time the pre-teen showered to name a few. This tee is perfect for all moms.
It all comes back to this. Whether you have one kiddo or ten. Whether you carried your child or fostered your child or adopted your child, this Blessed Mama t-shirt sums it up. In the good and bad, the happy and hard, the highs and lows, you have the privilege of pouring your life into another life. No person has as much influence on your child as you, Mama (and Dad). Let’s not forget that you truly are one blessed mama.
Shopping is fun. Here are some more ideas for families raising big kids…
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens
You just dropped your kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s an amazing life phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kid, and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get encouragement in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life chapter. It’s totally free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in thefreebie library.Join our community below.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: Looking for great stocking fillers for teenagers or your other big kids? Ones that won’t break the bank but that they’ll love? Read on…)
Gifts can be tricky for teens.
Sometimes, their emotions and actions just don’t always match the spirit of the Christmas season.
For example, one of our boys (a minimalist at heart) wouldn’t give us any ideas for Christmas one year. We kept asking…
“A new basketball? No.
“Tickets to a game?” Eh.
“Clothes?” Nope.
“Shoes” Naw.
“A gift card?” Shrug, then headshake no.
Nothing.
Nada.
Zilch.
But, then my son also kept talking about how excited he was to open gifts.
(Okay, then…)
It finally took me a hot minute to realize that even though he really wasn’t wanting much, that tradition of Christmas and gift-giving was still really important to him. It was a comfort of stability during the roller coaster ride of his teen years. So even though my love language is not gift-giving, and I don’t always feel like shopping…I know it’s still important for me to put effort into paying attention to what he likes and have a few presents under the tree that remind him how loved he is.
After securing some items on black Friday off of Amazon, I felt like I’d just spent all-my-money plus an-arm-and-leg to…drumroll, please…put exactly three gifts under the tree. I then found myself then side-eying the empty stockings missing the days when our kids were happy with a $1 matchbox car from the grocery store.
More money to spend.
But, also, just like other parents, I know these days of kids under our roof are fleeting. No, none of us want to break the bank and our kids do not need everything, but we would like some nice, inexpensive gifts to fill the stockings.
So, I brainstormed. Then I gathered more ideas. I asked friends, my sons, their friends, and some of my high school students: what were some of the best stocking stuffers for teenagers they’ve ever received or still want to get?
Because moms raising big kids are some of the busiest human beings on the planet, I made a quick list of ideas for you. I’m always up for someone else gathering and sifting through information and sharing the final list with me. Time savers are the best. So, here are 20 inexpensive ideas that teenagers and parents of big kids recommend.
Fun stocking fillers for teens
My house was full of a bunch of 16 and 17-year-old boys who love video games and sports and band and all things teenager. My son had his cube out and it was hilarious how many people neglected the PS5 and sport court outside to try and figure out this puzzle. The lucky winner and first one to finish had bragging rights all night. This was a gift from grandma on his birthday and it’s been a bigger hit than the gift card my son got – teens are just unpredictable like that.
These beautiful and bright stickerscan be used to personalize your teens’ water bottles, phone cases, Chromebooks, notebooks and so much more. They are waterproof. My friend told me her girls love them. She’s washed her teen’s water bottles dozens of times, and the stickers haven’t peeled off yet. Amusing and funky, multiple sticker themes exist on Amazon. It’s easy to find a pack that your teen will be sure to enjoy.
Part pen and part fidget, this interesting toy will entertain your teens. It also can be used as a touch screen pen for your device. My guess is you’ll want to have a turn creating with this magnetic fidget pen too. Help your teen de-stress and get creative with this fun pen.
I always have it in my head that teens are too big for Legos, but then my high school students will tell me they stayed up all night putting one of those giant Lego sets together. Teens just have one foot in adulthood and one in being a kid. I liked this Lego Succulent building set. Any gift that gets my teen’s creative juices flowing is a winner in my house. Plus when they’re done, it makes a cute adornment on a shelf.
Despite how fast teens are growing, they still cling a bit to childhood. I was talking to a group of 11th-grade students at the high school where I teach and asked what were good ideas for stocking stuffers for my teen nieces, and they said plushes. Enthusiastically. I think sometimes these things of their childhood give them comfort when they are being thrust to grow up faster than they want to – AP classes, trying out for teens, giving speeches in front of peers, college applications… This might be something your teen would enjoy.
When I was a child, my grandparents had a gumball machine hidden in their closet (not sure why it was hidden…maybe out-of-sight, out-of-mind kind of thing?). Next to it was a small Tupperware full of pennies for the grand-kids to use to get the bubble gum. Because of this, I’m always a little warm and fuzzy about gumball machines. These mini-machines are adorable. Tuck one in your teen’s stocking and start a gumball tradition of your own.
A mini arcade Pac-Man game that is fabulous for gamers and non-gamers alike. As a child of the 80s, this staple video game was a favorite. After calibrating my joystick, I would move a green pac-man across a black screen in my quest for dots. I’m that old. Bring back your childhood and share memories with this classic game your teenager is sure to love too.
I’ve noticed how many of my high school students have key chains attached to their backpacks. From plushies to sports-related to vacation keepsakes, it seems to be a fun way to express themselves. A keychain that represents something your teen loves might be a good idea.
Crafts stocking fillers for teens
When I was talking to a group of my high school students about their favorite stocking stuffers, I was surprised at how many said crafts. This rainbow scratch art paper is not just for kids. Your teens can use this to leave fun notes for friends, make lists, and draw. There’s something relaxing about watching the black scratch off and reveal the colors underneath. A great way to unwind after a long day at school and practice or to just have a little fun. Sometimes it’s the little things that are a hit.
There’s just something fun about getting a card in the mail. Even my teens still get excited to see their name on an envelope in the mail. These stationary cards are lovely. Let’s get this next generation excited about snail mail again. Encourage them to spread the love with a handwritten note. And if all else fails, pop one in a frame for some cute artwork.
My friend’s daughter has a set of watercolor brush pens that she enjoys. More than a typical marker, a watercolor pen looks like you’re painting. These pens are easy to blend and graceful to use. She says a favorite part is experimenting with writing different fonts. A sure win for the budding teen artist in your life.
Stress-reliever stocking fillers for teens
This is such a satisfying stress ball. The Nee-Doh can be tossed from teen to teen as a toy or be used to help focus. My friend has one teen that often does homework with it in one hand while the other hand is busy writing. It helps her son focus. Part toy/part stress reliever, it is an amusing gift for your teen’s stocking.
These sleep maskshave the ability to be practical and HILARIOUS. Yes, they can help your teenager get better sleep by blocking light, letting them nap on a bus, or getting an afternoon snooze, but they can also be customized with words or pictures. I’m thinking a custom mask with large eyes would garner some teen laughs.
One of my students told me how relaxing scented candles are for her. After a long day at school, she lights a candle, gets a snack, and works on her homework. Mood is everything, and she creates a space for herself that she loves. Besides charming packing, these scents are sure to brighten up any room.
Teenagers love art for so many reasons. A way to explore their creative side, relax, and focus their thoughts are some of the motives to enjoy drawing. After tests, I put out adult coloring pages, and I’m continually surprised by how many students relax into the comforting rhythm of shading between the lines. This adult coloring book is a good one. Maybe add a pack of colored pencils to the stocking to round this sweet gift out?
A scientific way to improve your level of happiness and lower your anxiety is through gratitude. A gratitude journal is a simple way to encourage our kids to notice that despite everything that might go “wrong” in their day, how much goes “right.” I like the idea of giving a stocking stuffer that will have positive ramifications beyond the holidays.
Electronic stocking fillers for teens that they will appreciate
Besides a drawer in my kitchen full of random chargers, we have either an assortment of chargers plugged into outlets, or we can’t find a single phone charger. Feast or famine. I thought thiscable protectorwould be great for two purposes: keeping track of which charger belongs to whom and preventing the cord from fraying near the plug-in part. Cute and reasonably priced.
No more missing chargers. No more finding a cable compatible with different smartphones. This 3-1 wireless charger is easy and fast to use. Plug it in on a desk or counter. Your teen will be excited to charge multiple things at once. You’ll be excited your charger won’t disappear to your teen’s room anymore.
This mini bluetooth speaker is. so. cute. Never thought I’d say those words. Waterproof and tiny-sized, this speaker is perfect for your on-the-go teen. Comes with a carrying case and metal hook so it can be easily taken on bike rides, walks, road trips, or hooked on a beach bag. A great addition to a stocking this year.
Peanut butter and jelly. Cookies and milk. Teens and cell phones. Chances are if you have a teenager in your life, they have a phone. Update your teen’s phone with a new phone case. This one comes in a variety of beautiful colors. Or go for a popular clear case. (Teens sometimes put their school ID or lunch ID in the back of the clear case, and then easily scan that for school lunches.) Either way, phone cases are a fun and practical gift for a teen.
A portable phone charger can be a lifesaver for your on-the-go teenager. This one comes in a two-pack, so you can slip one in your bag too. No more excuses for not texting back. You know that they have an easy way to charge their cell phone and stay connected with you wherever they might be.
Anybody’s teen lost his air pod case? Just mine? I didn’t think so. Air pod case as a key chain? Brilliant. Hook that baby up to something to help it from disappearing. This air pod case key chain with a wristlet or others like it without a wristlet are a handy way to keep your air pods from getting lost. A student proudly showed me her new iPod case key chain, and my first thought was that’s a perfect gift.
Practical stocking fillers for teens that they will appreciate
Those essential items that the kids use every single day…they do appreciate getting new and upgraded daily use gifts.
We can’t pull it together with socks in our home. Honestly. I don’t know why. I put an even number of socks in the wash and an odd number comes out. And, we’re all so bad at taking the time to match socks. The hunt is always on for matching socks in our home, and with three boys, they’re always fighting over this basic item. So, for Christmas, they always get socks – they love it and look forward to this gift. What is your family bad at keeping up with? Could it be a stocking stuffer?
I often use stockings to refill a few necessities but will make the gift a small upgrade from my usual purchase. It is amazing to see how excited my teens can be over a new razor. This electric razor is not only practical but makes shaving fun. Win-win.
My friend was telling me how she has loved Burt’s Bee’s products for a long time and is a regular user of their lip balm. But so do her big kids. So, she finds them sneaking into her bathroom to seek out her stash for themselves. Then you know what happens next. Her lip balms go missing. She said she did herself a favor this year and dropped this variety pack in each stocking.
If you live in a cold weather state like me, you know that gloves are a staple in any home. We’ve gone through our fair share of cheap cotton dollar store gloves, but the gloves that stand the test of time (and weather) have to be of better quality. These glovesare an upgrade with an anti-slip grip and touch screen fingertips. Now your teens have no excuse not to text you back even in the coldest weather.
Shake up your teen’s normal hygiene routine with a new body spray. Try a new scent or brand. Make smelling good fun again. This body spray size is perfect for tossing in a backpack or sports bag.
This is another gift that is an upgrade from our normal toothbrush situation. I have one teen who doesn’t like brushing his pearly whites, and it’s amazing how an electric toothbrush can make this mundane task more enjoyable. One step closer to no more reminding my teen to clean his teeth.
Keepsake stocking fillers for teens
It’s truly special the way a family pet stakes a place in our hearts. Show Fido a little extra love with his profile on a charm you can wear. These personalized pet necklaces are a fun and whimsical addition to your teen’s stocking. Lots of dog faces and fonts to choose from to make it one of a kind.
Give a gift that will make a sweet keepsake. These minature music boxes play charming songs like “Over the Rainbow” and “You are my Sunshine.” My sentimental mama mind pictures my teen thinking warm and fuzzy thoughts when hearing it play and know they are loved.
Food and drink and treats stocking fillers for teens
Create a tradition using candy. When the kids were little, my husband started stuffing their stockings with holiday candy. They don’t get it any other time of the year, so it’s a treat they look forward to every Christmas.
A cozy atmosphere and a warm drink in my hand can make those Minnesota winter nights more enjoyable. (Especially the 20 degrees below ones.) Fill your teen’s stockings with some yummy, gourmet hot chocolate mixes. Then, pop in a family movie and sip on your mug of hot chocolate together.
Have some stocking fun with some delicious gourmet popcorn. This variety pack will make game-night extra special. Drop these yummy fun-sized treats into your teen’s stocking, then cross your fingers they will share.
Holidays are the perfect time to try new flavors and embrace the variety pack. These vintage sodaflavors can be divided up and placed in each stocking. Then, create a taste test night and vote on your favorite. Another way to make memories with your teens.
These peppermint Ice Cube gum packs are some of our family’s favorites. What teen doesn’t like getting gum? It’s a staple.
T-shirt stocking fillers for teens
Funny t-shirts are great gifts for teens. If you buy them “a miss,” they’ll still wear the t-shirt to sleep in or lounge around the house. You just can’t lose. This silly t-shirt is sure to give your teen a chuckle. Or at least an eye roll.
Graphic tees are also a great gift. Teens just like t-shirts. My sons’ closets are a testimony to this. Funny and comfy. Two of my favorite adjectives. This humorous dino t-shirt is just that.
Some teens are really into watching anime, and ALL teens are into t-shirts. A fun anime t-shirt could be a hit in your house.
Fun and comfy socks fillers for teens
Cute and comfy socks are an easy present to fill your Christmas stockings. These silly socks are soft and fluffy and just perfect for lounging around the house during the cold weather months.
I was surprised at how excited some of my students get over funny socks. When they are feeling a little EXTRA, they will wear them pulled high with crocks or slides. These silly socks are sure to get a smile when pulled from their stocking.
Fancy fillers for teens
I tell you what. The marketing people were able to think outside the (juice)box for this bottle of spray. (See what I did there?) This trending perfumecomes in a clever, whimsical “juice” box that will have your teen smelling delicious and “awwww-ing” over the container.
Lip gloss is a sure win for teens who love make-up. Butter gloss some in so many fantastic shades. You’re sure to find a color your teen will love.
This travel pack of solid cologneis genius. Chapstick-sized cologne that can go anywhere with your teen. Easy to slip in a pocket or backpack. This is perfect.
Money and gift cards for teens
My fail safe present for teens (especially when I’m in a time-crunch or don’t know them super well) is to purchase a gift card. An Amazon gift card is handy because a teen can get almost anything they want at Amazon.com. Another fun idea to do get several $5 or $10 gift cards to fast food restaurants, or if they are a teen driver, a gas card can be a big hit.
If you’re concerned about being “boring” but just want to give cash, this is a creative solution. Present them with a maze puzzle money box. Teens have to solve the puzzle by moving a silver ball through the maze to unlock the opening and receive their prize. This gift is great.
Games for teens
Our family loves 5 Crowns. Small games are an inexpensive gift to throw in stockings. Plus, a lazy Christmas day is the perfect opportunity to connect over a family game.
Your Turn
What did we miss? What are some stocking stuffers that your family has loved? Let us know in the comments.
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens
You just dropped your kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s an amazing life phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kid, and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get encouragement in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life chapter. It’s totally free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in thefreebie library.Join our community below.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: Best gift ideas for teen girls. Gifts your teenage girl will love. Best gifts to get a teenage girl. Shop fun ideas for your teen.)
Are you looking to buy a gift for your teenage girl? A gift that reminds your teen that she is seen, valued, and oh-so-very-loved?
I’m right there with you.
I adore my six nieces and do everything I can to cheer them on during these crazy tween/teen years. I just spent a week with two of my nieces in which we scoured the downtown shops for great gift ideas for upcoming holidays and birthdays. It was extra fun, and I got a million ideas and made some great purchases.
Maybe it’s only because I have sons and am used to buying gifts for teen boys, that when I get to buy gifts for my nieces it’s just special in a different way. So with their input, I thought I’d share some gift ideas for teenage girls with you.
*These are Amazon Affiliate links – read more here.*
Crafts and Being Artsy – Gift Ideas for Teen Girls
Being a teen is exhausting these days!
One thing that adds to the exhaustion is looking at screens all day. Between Chromebooks for school and cell phones for play, a teenager’s brain is tiredd.
Enter crafts.
This creative outlet is a natural stress reliever! Not to mention working on a different part of their mind that needs attention!
Several of my nieces say that drawing, crafting, or participating in something artistic is one of their favorite ways to unwind. A way to get away from all the daily pressures and focus on creating something beautiful!
Here are arts and crafts ideas to get your teen girl engaged.
Sports and Outdoor Fun – Gift Ideas for Teen Girls
I’ll admit. Some days when I’m running my teenagers from one sports activity to another, this thought goes through my mind…
Is this worth it?
Because while I think my big kids are talented, we probably won’t be headed to the NBA anytime soon. But then I REMEMBER all the LIFE LESSONS gained from sports teams.
Hard work pays off.
Sometimes you lose and sometimes you win and both teach you something.
To improve you MUST be coachable.
Learning to work with teammates will give you people skills you can use forever.
Moving your body is IMPORTANT for your physical and mental health.
So as you think about the teen girl in your life, remember that supporting her athletic activities is so much more than you may think. Check out these gift ideas to encourage her.
Cooking and Fun Food Ideas – Gift Ideas for Teen Girls
Growing up I have fond memories in the kitchen. My mother getting supper ready for us or teaching me to make homemade chocolate chip cookies.
Visiting my grandma in Colorado meant fresh cinnamon rolls and from-scratch chocolate pie.
My grandparents in Iowa always baked special Christmas cookies the day after Thanksgiving, and my grandpa loved to make his pecan, chocolate turtle candy.
I can even look at a certain utensil, mixing bowl, or pretty dish and be filled with nostalgia.
Here are some ideas to create your own memories in the kitchen with the teen girl in your life.
When thinking accessories and glam, I gathered my teen nieces and a few friends to give me the inside scoop on the must-haves. We hoovered over chips and salsa, and they brainstormed and filled me on what’s trending in their world.
The talk and laughter brightened my kitchen, and I think these ideas will brighten up the teen girl in your life too.
Clothes and Fun Styles – Gift Ideas for Teen Girls
I’ve been teaching high school for more than two decades, so I get a good taste of the current fashions and styles. My students and I talk fashion all the time, one even stayed after school to help me pick out online some updated jeans. I told her I was at a loss, she offered to stay – a win for me. My students definitely keep me in the know.
These are some of the fun styles and clothing that I’ve been seeing lately. Keep your teen girl up to point with any of these gifts.
Decorating your teen girls’ room can be a blast with these fun and whimsical touches. With the internet right at your fingertips, you can get lots of inspiration and seemingly endless possibilities.
What a blessing it is to create a beautiful space for the teen girl in your life to unwind and rest.
But seriously, where was this Macrame Swing when I was a teenager!? I don’t know if I would have left my room.
Growing up…”Dear Diary” was about the only option I thought about when journaling. I love how flexible and creative journaling has grown beyond just documenting your daily activities and childhood crush.
These journals encourage you to dig a little deeper into gratitude and creativity. They can encourage teenagers to pray, color, practice gratitude, track their mood and even get silly with journals like Wreck This Journal.
An easy and cheap gift that can have a daily impact on a teen girl’s life.
Some of my sweetest memories are of my grandparents, family and cousins squeezed around my grandma’s dining room table playing Trivia Pursuit. Yes, the game was fun, but it was the conversations, inside jokes, and teasing that filled the room with love and connection.
This connection can still be had with teens today.
Grandpa and Grandma having trouble conversing with their teen granddaughter? Maybe the ever-present cell phone is hovering in front of her nose?
Try grabbing some brownies, playing some tunes (share your favorite songs, ask the teens to share theirs), and gathering around the table. You will be pleasantly surprised to see how board games can bridge the generational gap in so many ways.
Not sure which ones to try? Here are some suggestions below.
Faith is extremely important in our family, and I am acutely aware that so many things are competing for your teen girl’s time and attention.
One way to counteract the distractions is to be intentional about giving gifts that can strengthen and encourage their walk with God.
We know that this world can be tough. It is essential for teens to fill their minds with God’s truth. Bible reading, studies, and memory verse cards can help do just that.
Trying to narrow down book recs for teen girls was an impossible task. (So much so that I decided to make a separate list for reading recommendations.)
Here are a quick few that I think the teenager in your life may enjoy.
Several are memoirs of Christians who have fascinating stories to tell. This piggybacks off of gifts that may help grow your teen’s faith!
I’m also a fan of historical fiction and just-for-fun fiction!
So whether you are buying a book for a teen girl or for yourself, these are a wonderful places to start.
If you have a teen in your life, they will most likely make a gift list that includes something that needs to get plugged in. It’s the reality of our world.
Thankfully, electronics can be used for really cool things! Besides entertainment, these gifts can be used for school, writing, art, photography, and connecting with family and friends.
Browse through these ideas to get some inspiration.
Being a teenage girl can be tough! So many activities are competing for their attention. It can be hard as a parent to teach the importance of REST, and sometimes it’s because we’re not practicing rest either.
We need to be intentional with our young people to both model self-care and encourage them in pursuit of healthy rest.
To be the best version of ourselves, we need to take care of ourselves.
Here are a few gifts that will help get them started!
Personalized gifts are some of my favorite gifts to give.
We’ve all been there…staring at a rotating jewelry case in a touristy gas station and desperately looking for OUR name on a key chain. And of course, it’s not there.
This is where the internet wins. Now we can get personalized presents for any occasion from the comfort of our own home.
I think the teen girl in your life is sure to love a few of these.
What gift ideas for teen girls do you have? What have you bought a teen girl that they love? Leave your thoughts in the comments, we’d love to add your gift ideas to this list, as well.
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens…
You just dropped one kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s an amazing life phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kid and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get encouragement in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life chapter. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in thefreebie library.Join our community here or below.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
(Inside: Gifts for moms that they will love. Here are fantastic gift ideas that say “I love you” to the mom raising tweens and teens.)
Are you looking for a gift for a mom raising tweens and teens?
You’re about to make her day.
Because between work and community and family, moms of older kids have been juggling and giving and giving some more for well over a decade. We’re busy. And the causality of that is this common theme: we take care of everyone else before we take care of ourselves. A gift to a mom disrupts that pattern – it reminds moms that we are seen and loved and appreciated.
A nice present means so much.
Since I am currently in the thick of raising two teens and a tween, I thought it’d be fun to think about the needs (and wishes) of a mom specific to this season and make a list of what gifts she might like. Here are some things that moms parenting tweens and teens love…
Moms wanted that last piece of cake – best gifts for moms
That last piece of dessert…we wanted to see the smile on your face as you ate it, so we didn’t actually tell you we wanted it to. So, gift the mom in your life her own treats – every bite, first and last.
Moms love their comfy clothes – best gifts for moms
We just spent our money on soccer camp or new reeds for the saxophone, so there’s no way we’re going to buy ourselves the new pair of yoga pants that we really wanted. So if you notice and buy them for us, you’re our hero.
Moms love their fancy clothes, as well – best gifts for moms
As much as we love our comfy clothes, we still want to feel young(ish) and pretty, so we love our nice clothes too. But, before you buy any of these gifts, find out your loved one’s size. Don’t worry about the surprise factor; the fact that you are planning a gift and us knowing that is just as fun as the gift itself. Also to be noted, we hate returning things. So if it doesn’t fit, have a plan to get it exchanged without help from the mom in your life.
Moms love their family to help clean the house – best gifts for moms
Do you really want to make us happy? I mean over-the-top fill your mom (or spouse) with joy? Embrace cleaning. Here’s a lovely way to present this gift: (1) clean the whole house, (2) grab the printable below and tuck it into a sweet card with kind words, (3) tell mom that you will be organizing the family to clean once a week for the next month. Mom will swoon. The end.
Moms love sentimental jewelry – best gifts for moms
Moms of tweens and teens become a little (a lot) over-sappy. We see how fast time is moving and realize that the parenting days with kids in our home are fleeting. Sentimental gifts that mark this season of life are so appreciated. Here are some ideas.
Of course, moms love when their family members print out some photos and put them together in a photo album. We mean to do it, but the days are so busy – so if it is done for us? Just heaven.
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens here.
Moms love family time – best gifts for moms
If I had to nail down “what moms want” to just a few things, at the top of the list would be this: time with our families. Plan a family night: a game or puzzle, some snacks and a movie. That’s pure gold.
I’ve wanted the iRobot and Shark vacuum/mop for years, but haven’t spent the money because school supplies and sports camps, and new shoes for my teens… Moms love our gadgets so to have someone pay a little more for the expensive thing that makes our lives easier and gift it to us is just lovely.
I was just introduced to Color Street (see below) and absolutely love how easy it is to do my own nails. I love looking down at my hands and seeing beautiful colors. Does the mom in your life love to have pretty nails too? These might be good ideas for her…
Moms continually give (and are happy to do it!), but we also so desperately need to also take care of ourselves. If you put together some self-care items then pick an evening/day that the family handles everything so that mom can enjoy rest and relaxation, what a gift that is to her.
Moms love inspiration and journals – best gifts for moms
By the time moms get to the chapter of parenting tweens and teens – a thing or two in life has happened. Good stuff, but also hard stuff – and moms need time to process and be encouraged. The Lysa Terkurest books have helped me unpack my thoughts, grow from, and move past some hard stuff (including a later-in-life miscarriage), so I highly recommend her work. Here’s also a list of 60+ of my favorite inspirational books.
What did I miss? Have you gotten a gift for mom that she has loved? Leave a comment and let me know. And also, before you go, don’t forget to join our community of moms of bigs here.
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens here.
Join this community of moms raising tweens and teens
You just dropped one kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s an amazing life phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kid, and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get encouragement in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life chapter. It’s totally free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in the freebie library.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
Okay, maybe that’s not totally true, but a book started my healing process. I was in a deep mom slump. A miscarriage followed by a job loss left me feeling beaten down at best. I’d never read inspirational Christian books before, but a title caught my eye: Uninvited – Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out, and Lonely (Lysa TerKeurst)
I didn’t feel left out, but I felt sad (like all the time) and I cried a lot (like every day) and this book just seemed hopeful
So, I started reading. Then this crazy thing happened…I felt better. Not a lot better, simply one minuscule click forward. But still, it was progress. So, I picked up another inspirational book.
Then another.
Dr. Gotham famously says a healthy marriage needs 5 positive interactions for every 1 negative one. (The magic 5:1 ratio.) I think our relationship with ourselves is the same: 5 positive thoughts for every 1 negative one. Except, in that low season of my life, one negative thought seemed to exponentially multiply – so I found that I needed to input about 15000 positive thoughts daily. Or maybe even hourly. As a result, I kept finding more inspirational books and reading them.
(And did other work as well in healing. Lots of “other” work.)
But slowly – at turtle speed – I climbed out of my valley. And it was through books that I kept a steady stream of encouragement flowing into my brain. So, momma, I don’t know where you’re at in motherhood:
Are you depressed or feeling anxious?
Are you trying to make a decision?
Do you need the confidence to go after your dream?
Do you just need encouragement to keep you going?
Or things are going great, you just need “maintenance.”
Here are some best books for moms to read. I’ve read most of them and the few I haven’t are on my “must-read” list. There is a book on this list that will move you. Read with joy, then tell me about it in the comments. (Or let me know about a book I missed!)
Now, onto the list of best books for moms…
Photo by Prasanna Kumar on Unsplash
This blog post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a small commission if you purchase through these links. (At no extra cost to you.)
“I need to heal” best inspirational books for mothers
The Broken Way: A Daring Path to the Abundant Life (Ann Voskamp) I found this book right when I needed it. It gives you a fresh look at pain and how it transforms your life in amazing ways. This book takes away the fear of hard stuff happening. You’ll see how that the cracks in your life let God’s love into your heart in breathtaking ways.
Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out, and Lonely (Lysa TerKeurst) I picked up this book when I was going through a painful period in my life; I had no idea how healing reading it would be. The bottom line is that it made me think about the root of some of my pain, which was seeking approval. For anyone who struggles with people-pleasing, this is a must-read.
Mended: Pieces of a Life Made Whole (Angie Smith) Angie wondered if really all hard things worked together for good. She took time to sort through her thoughts and research heartache; this is her story.
Bittersweet: Thoughts on Change, Grace, and Learning the Hard Way (Shauna Niequist) I read this book just when I needed to hear this message. Amazon review explains: “Bittersweet is the idea that in all things there is both something broken and something beautiful, that there is a moment of lightness on even the darkest of nights, a shadow of hope in every heartbreak, and that rejoicing is no less rich even when it contains a splinter of sadness.”
The Complicated Heart: Loving Even When It Hurts (Sarah Mae) Sarah tells her story of her tumultuous relationship with her alcoholic mom. The book has both Sarah’s words and her mom’s journals. Was Sarah makes sense of their rocky relationship, she finds healing, peace, and love.
7: An Experimental Mutiny Against Excess (Jen Hatmaker) After reading this book, I looked at all the “stuff” in my life and was able to let go of clutter that was supposed to be making me happy but instead was causing me stress. My faith grew in huge ways through reading Jen’s work.
Grace for the Good Girl: Letting Go of Your Try Hard Life (Emily P. Freeman) This is on my to-read list. Here’s what the review on Amazon says: “Many of us believe that we are saved by grace–but for too many, that’s the last time grace defines our life. Instead of clinging to grace, we strive for good and believe that the Christian life means hard work and a sweet disposition. As good girls, we focus on the things we can handle, our disciplined lives, and our unshakable good moods. When we fail to measure up to our own impossible standards, we hide behind our good girl masks, determined to keep our weakness a secret. In Grace for the Good Girl, Emily Freeman invites women to let go of the try-hard life and realize that in Christ we are free to receive from him rather than constantly try to achieve for him.”
Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are (Ann Voskamp) Ann was in a deep valley of sorrow and sadness. She desperately wanted to pull herself out of her depression, but she wasn’t sure how. So, she started writing down all the things she was grateful for. 1000 things. This book is poetic and beautiful. You won’t see the world around you the same again.
Get instant access to the freebie library which includes a pdf of this list of best inspirational books for moms list.
“I need motivation” best inspirational books for mothers
Everything is Figureoutable (Marie Forleo) I’ve listened to Maria’s podcast and she is the real deal. There’s a reason why I listen to her motivational podcasts while I run. So, I’m excited to read her encouragement in her newest book.
“I need direction ” best inspirational books for mothers
The Next Right Thing: A Simple, Soulful Practice for Making Life Decisions (Emily Freeman) I struggle so much with making both big and small decision. Whether you have decision fatigue (often a result of low-grade daily anxiety) or complete decision paralysis, this book will help you. In it, you’ll untangle the art of making decisions, gain a renewed perspective and feel more confident. This is one of my all-time favorite books. I read it twice and underlined 50% of the sentences. I highly recommend it.
Own Your Life: living with Deep Intention, Bold Faith, and Generous Love (Sally Clarkson) I admire how Sally lives life her way. Meaning, in deep faith, she follows God’s call even if it goes against the grain. (Like some examples of how she parents.) If you want to take a more thoughtful look at your own life and move forward more intentionally, this book is for you.
Love Does: Discover a Secretly Incredible Life in an Ordinary World (Bob Goff) I loved this book. Bob Goff tells stories that point you to see God move and guide you in the ordinary. Though the book is more about seeing God in the ordinary, what Bob says about “God’s will for your life” was life-giving, direction-leading thought. I had a total aha moment with this book!
“I need to laugh” best inspirational books for mothers
“I want to be inspired to be more creative” best inspirational books for mothers
A Million Little Ways: Uncover the Art You Were Made to Live (Emily P. Freeman) If you are not convinced that God designed us to be creative, this book will change your mind. You’ll be inspired to pick up that artistic expression you’ve been longing to do and go for it with absolute joy. I loved how Emily taught us creativity through the lens of God’s design for our lives. This book is so good.
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear (Elizabeth Gilbert) This book doesn’t have a religious affiliation (and she writer drops the F-bomb a bit), but I lent my copy to my pastor’s wife and she liked it, so there’s that. This book I found incredibly inspirational – you’ll fall more in love with your craft because of Elizabeth’s word.
“I want to get healthy” best inspirational books for mothers
“I want to grow my faith” best inspirational books for moms
Chasing God (Angie Smith) If you feel like you are always chasing God, but you don’t actually know him, then this book is for you! It will open your eyes to seeing how God meets you right where you’re at, in the simple, every day.
Interrupted: When Jesus Wrecks Your Comfortable Christianity (Jen Hatmaker) Jen opened my eyes to see the world around me through the eyes of Jesus. Meaning, she challenged me to notice people who aren’t like me. (And celebrate them.) She also challenges us to give in bigger ways that are out of our comfort zone. This book will grow your faith and change your perspective in a very good way.
The Organic God (Margaret Feinberg) This is absolutely one of my favorite books. Margaret tells beautiful stories that help you better understand who God is and see Him working all around you.
Play with Fire: Discovering Fierce Faith, Unquenchable Passion, and a Life-Giving God (Bianca Olthoff) As you read Bianca’s story of growing her own faith, you’ll find a piece of yourself somewhere along the way. What I remember most about this book is being completely overcome with a real-life–prayed-for miracle that happened. There is a real God who loves us and fights for us and Bianca helps you know Him more.
Savor: Living Abundantly Where You Are, as you Are. (Shauna Niequist) This is a daily devotional that helps you find joy and faith in ordinary life. When I bought this book, I didn’t realize it was a devotional. I was disappointed because I don’t normally read daily devotionals. But I read it anyway and found it to be lovely. I was glad I picked it up.
An Altar in the World: A Geography of Faith (Barbara Brown Taylor) A friend lent me this, but I ended up buying my own copy so I could highlight it up!Barbara Brown Taylor is a former minister with a gift for teaching about faith. I think you’ll love this book too.
The Power of a Praying Parent Book of Prayers (StormieOmartian) I can’t read Stormie’s books at night because her written-out prayers hold such power, love, and inspiration, that I get excited about praying for my family and can’t sleep! This is a great morning book.
“I need a friend” best inspirational books for moms
Point of View: A Fresh Look at Work, Faith, and Freedom (Elisabeth Hasselbeck) Elisabeth walks you through her season on the popular reality television show Survivor, her decade on The View, and her few years at Fox News. The tone of this book isfriend-like, casual, and vulnerable. Elisabeth shares her story of life and faith with you – it’s refreshing and uplifting.
Finding the Bright Side: The Art of Chasing What Matters (Shannon Bream) Shannon shares her journey of beauty pageants (competing on a National level), law school, becoming a popular news broadcaster, her husband’s cancer battle and her decision not to have kids. In it all, she shares how her journey has deepened her faith. You feel like you’re talking to a friend.
Brave Love: Making Space for You to Be you (Lisa Leonard) Even though I don’t know Lisa personally, I’ve ordered a ton of her jewelry and got to be on her book launch team. This book tells her story of how she built her wildly successful business, her journey with parenting a special needs son, her perserverance through marrital strife, and how she conquers life.
Becoming (Michelle Obama) Where do I start with this book? No matter what your political stance is, Michelle Obama is your girl. Honest, vulnerable and incredibly likeable, I ate up this book. I walked away feeling encouraged and inspired. (And like I could do anything!)
“I need to relate to my kid better” best inspirational books for moms
Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and the Mom Who Loved Him (Sally Clarkson and Nathan Clarkson) Sally’s son Nathan grew up with some serious mental health issues. Both Nathan and Sally tell how they learned to better connect and understand each other. Nathan shares his story of learning about himself and growing into a thriving, happy adult. Then Sally shares the mom side of his journey. This story is a tear-jerker and will help you see your challenging child as the blessing that he (or she) already is.
“Help me overcome perfectionism” best inspirational books for moms
Why Your Best is Good Enough (Kevin Leman) I love the wisdom and humor of psychologist, Kevin Lehman. This book was one of my favorites that he’s written. (And I’ve read many!) Amazon review says, “Dr. Kevin Leman helps those who struggle with self-doubt to value their talents and gifts and accept their shortcomings. He points out why the lifestyle we develop as a child determines our degree of success or failure and explains how, regardless of the past, each person can develop a healthy lifestyle today.”
You just dropped one kid off at practice, picked up another, and are trying to decide what to make for dinner. Your days are filled with work, parenting, and waiting for password reset emails.
You are parenting tweens and teens.
It’s a fantastic life phase, but also challenging in unique ways. In it all, you’d love a little encouragement to help you laugh, grow in faith, see parenting hacks, get ideas to connect with your kid, and celebrate the awesome momma you are.
I got you, friend. Sign up for Empowered Moms and Kids monthly emails and get encouragement in your inbox geared for someone exactly in your life chapter. It’s totally free and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you’ll get instant access to all the great resources in the freebie library.Join our community below.
Read the Full Series on Self-Care & Inspiration for Moms
Why is self-care so hard for moms? Y’all, I ignored it for so long, that I had an epic mom crash. (I talk about it over here.) I never want to go there again, so it’s game on, self-care!
I recently listened to a podcast by the author of my favorite book on creativity (affiliate link), Liz Gilbert, where she talked about how she feels like she has been given the divine responsibility of being in charge of “Liz,” so needs to do what’s best for “Liz.”
Okay, I hope I don’t mess up the interpretation of what she said too much, but let me tell you how it went into my heart…
God gives us the sacred responsibility of taking care of ourselves. So, I need to see myself in the 3rd person. I need to step outside of myself and say, “Cheryl doesn’t need to be doing that. She’s done enough..she needs sleep, or to say ‘no,’ or to sit and pet her beloved dog.”
For this go-go-go, do-all-the-things girl, that way of explaining our self-obligation was powerful. Self-care is vital. We better serve our families and communities when we are in a good place. So, be encouraged by the full series on self-care and other inspiration for moms.
Cheryl is a mom of 3 boys, wife, speaker, high school teacher, and author of Empowered Moms & Kids. She has a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and is passionate about learning and teaching. On www.empoweredmomsandkids.com you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for moms raising tweens and/or teens. Read more in the “about” section of this page.
I want to be a stylish mom. With the recent huge shift in changing fashion, I’ve rediscovered shopping as I’ve updated my wardrobe. Here are some fun finds.
