As your children grow and mature into adults, it becomes harder and harder to buy holiday gifts for them. It’s no longer a matter of standing in line for that highly-sought-after toy and sneaking presents from Santa under the tree. However, your kids — no matter how old they are — will always appreciate a thoughtful gift from you.

If you’re at a loss for what to get your adult kids, check out our gift suggestions below. We broke our ideas down into age groups (teens, 20s, 30s, 40s+), so find the ages of your kids and browse our suggestions.

For her: animal print sweater / nameplate necklace / gold ring / lomography camera / clutch / perfume / coffee table book like Rookie Yearbook One
For him: plaid shirt / novelty phone case / headphones / over-the-door basketball hoop /book like Surviving the Zombie Outbreak / cologne

Teens may be the hardest age group to shop for. They’re not as easy-to-please as kids, but they still expect those wrapped presents under the tree. Teens like to receive trendy clothes and accessories, but they’ll still have fun with “toys” like the lomography camera and the basketball hoop.

For her: quality candle /nice bag big enough for laptop / [faux] fur stole / personalized stationery / nice watch / serving tray
For him: pocket knife / athletic jacket / nice watch / tickets to game or concert / beer-making kit (21+) / nice shaving supplies

20-somethings are probably getting started in life, so help them get going with nice items that will last for years. Career-minded 20-somethings will probably appreciate owning a  nice wristwatch or bag. Or, consider items for their first apartment or house.

 

For her: nice mohair throw / photo frames / scrubs & skin treatments / quality teas / cozy sweater / infinity scarf
For him: quality travel mug / tools / pullover shirt / leather gloves / binoculars / grilling tools

30-somethings are most likely established in life and maybe have a young family. They’ll appreciate little luxuries that they go without because of kids and other priorities. Whether it’s a luxurious blanket and tea or nice gloves and tools, your 30-something will appreciate almost any thoughtful gift.

 

For her: photo printer / cat eye readers / children birthstone necklace / weekend tote / gardening shoes / wine party kit
For him: reading glasses / bird feeder / suitcase / nice bottle of liquor / thermal socks / lap desk

40-somethings and older are probably enjoying life with older kids and saving for college tuition.  They, too, will appreciate almost any thoughtful gift. Consider the 40-something’s interests and hobbies (for example, wine, food, travel, gardening) that took a backseat to his or her kid-raising days. A pair of reading glasses is always a nice gift, too. Check out our reading glasses buying guide for tips on giving readers as gifts.

 

We hope this gives you some gift-giving inspiration. Remember, even adults look forward to the holidays and love unwrapping a thoughtful gift!