Readers have been requesting another guide for those who are tough to shop for — imagine: teenagers, in-laws, and teachers — so we were delighted to compile one. Here are plenty of suggestions, most of which are under $30…
TEENS AND TWEENS:
Preteens and teens are famously difficult shoppers, so a few suggestions: Firstly, a crushed ice tray for those who dream of an ice-cold can of Dr. Pepper. The Believer’s special sports issue — featuring an in-depth look at Steph Curry’s legendary Olympics performance and an interview with open-water swimmer Amy Appelhans Gubser — would be a blast to dive into together, and gift cards to Zara or local cafés are always winners. Corded earbuds are trending again (who knew?), and Anton and I just began Jason Reynolds’s track book series — wow, his books are incredible page turners! Twelve-year-old Anton also asked for a Bop It Extreme/my personal nightmare; and picking between 10 mini cereal boxes is one of my core childhood memories (is it yours too???).
TEACHERS:
Teachers keep the world spinning, so how do we show our gratitude? Cozy socks are always appreciated — “I was introduced to Le Bon Shoppe socks by a student’s family years ago,” says a reader named Kristina — as are gift cards to neighborhood cafés, lunch spots, or Target. Consider including specific reasons you appreciate them, suggests a teacher named Kristyn: “I tack thank-you notes behind my desk to uplift me on tough days.” And “emailing our bosses to report an anecdote about something we did is THE BEST,” adds Whitney. Remember, “teachers have allllll the mugs,” says Katie, but kids themselves are always cherished, says Sarah: “A leaf your child found will bring me to tears every time.”
IN-LAWS/GRANDPARENTS:
For the in-laws or grandparents, let them feel recognized with a book that caters to their interests — for example, travel, painting, or quilting. For breakfast enthusiasts, you could give a photo mug of the grandkids or a handy cooker for making perfect jammy eggs. Send winter-themed beers from Athletic Brewing — non-alcoholic, all delicious; and ensure they have a snug winter with taper candles and decorative matches.
Thoughts? What would you include? What other tricky shoppers are there in your life?
P.S. Last year’s hard-to-shop-for guide, and the full 2025 Cup of Jo gift guide!
Note: If you purchase something via our links, we may earn an affiliate commission or have a sponsored relationship with the brand, at no cost to you. We only endorse products we genuinely appreciate. Thank you so much.
