by Joyce Slaton posted in Products

Tweens are tough to shop for. If you guess even a little too young, you horrify them and waste your money (and make them think you're out of it); skew too old and you may irritate parents. Meanwhile, tweens aren't really mature enough to have developed the kinds of personal interests and hobbies that make gift-giving easier.
So, it's a gift card then" Well, maybe -- tweens and teens are often inordinately happy to get free money to spend just as they like. But if you'd prefer to have something tangible wrapped and under the tree, we quizzed the tween moms we know on what's cool for tweens this year. First up: saying "cool" is not cool.

1. Kobra LED Color-Changing Lightbulb with Remote: Tweens often show an interest in changing their rooms right about now, part of their growing independence and individuality. This inexpensive little gadget allows them to change up their mood lighting instantly. I bought this for my own daughter three years ago -- the remote control hasn't gotten lost, the batteries haven't run out, the lightbulb is still working, and she uses it all the time for fun and photo special-effects. (Amazon, $13.99)
2. PopSocket: Not every tween has a smart phone yet, and it is frequently a point of contention between kids and parents, so if you don't know for sure your tween has a phone, don't get them this gift -- it's exactly the kind of "stop rushing us!" gift that could really annoy their parent...