So i'm struggling with gift ideas for my pre-teen son.
He wants the usual - dirt bike with a field - that elusive rich farmer hasn't cropped up yet  ...
No, but seriously - what do you get a child who really wants for nothing, has no interest in sports, enjoys hanging out with friends and gaming (and I just can't bear spending more on that virtual stuff  ).
Anyone any ideas for activities/outings out of the ordinary to make memories rather than more "stuff" that just ends up on the shelf? |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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Teens are so hard to buy for nothing impresses them anymore. This year I said fuck it I'm taking them to Galway City for two nights and I'll throw them a few quid to hit Penny's. I have a projector so I'm going to surprise them one of the nights with a Christmas movie binge with Xmas pjs and lots of treats. Sometimes been present with them and creating memories is the best gift. I did something similar just after the first Covid and they still talk about it how much they loved it |
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"Teens are so hard to buy for nothing impresses them anymore. This year I said fuck it I'm taking them to Galway City for two nights and I'll throw them a few quid to hit Penny's. I have a projector so I'm going to surprise them one of the nights with a Christmas movie binge with Xmas pjs and lots of treats. Sometimes been present with them and creating memories is the best gift. I did something similar just after the first Covid and they still talk about it how much they loved it"
Lovely ideas  .
Unfortunately I've 2 on opposite ends of the spectrum and I wanted something exclusively for him, that for once isn't overshadowed by his sister's needs and anxieties.
It's extremely difficult to find something I can involve both in that they both enjoy, particularly as a single parent.
Strange surroundings are a no no unfortunately, massive stress factor for the daughter and practically undoable (I ended up leaving my Christmas visit with folks early last year because she was physically sick with the anxiety and stress - I don't plan on repeating any time soon). And I have her gifts sorted (a Penny's shopping trip was involved).
Christmas itself is always spent with a certain amount of togetherness, movies, baking, and family games |
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"Is it just for him or is it more a group type thing with friends?
Something just for him really, or that I could do with him as an experience...
Depending on age what about scuba lessons "
If available in a pool, not sure he'd be one to take to the sea...hmmm, interesting. Thanks  |
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"So i'm struggling with gift ideas for my pre-teen son.
He wants the usual - dirt bike with a field - that elusive rich farmer hasn't cropped up yet ...
No, but seriously - what do you get a child who really wants for nothing, has no interest in sports, enjoys hanging out with friends and gaming (and I just can't bear spending more on that virtual stuff ).
Anyone any ideas for activities/outings out of the ordinary to make memories rather than more "stuff" that just ends up on the shelf?"
Dirtbike is honestly great... And an interest like that focuses them as they grow including including what they spend their money on which is great. I get that it's not usable for lots of people because they don't have an area That's where a mountain bike for forests will come in handy.there great and big amoung teems .. new areas 3very month across the country being designated for them .. |
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"Is it just for him or is it more a group type thing with friends?
Something just for him really, or that I could do with him as an experience...
Depending on age what about scuba lessons
If available in a pool, not sure he'd be one to take to the sea...hmmm, interesting. Thanks "
Yeah he could do a PADI cert in Dublin and it’s pool based |
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By *og-ManMan
over a year ago
somewhere |
"Is it just for him or is it more a group type thing with friends?
Something just for him really, or that I could do with him as an experience...
Depending on age what about scuba lessons
If available in a pool, not sure he'd be one to take to the sea...hmmm, interesting. Thanks "
Did it during the week while away but over here you have to be over 16
These guys can give you details as
to what to do if your kids are younger
https://www.irishscubaacademy.com/ |
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By *3nsesMan
over a year ago
Dublin |
On a more serious note.
https://gamerfest.ie/?gclid=CjwKCAjwkaSaBhA4EiwALBgQaJZMtFvqpN9P1SJE92iS2B01tE6GHzr2PVO7ltlGziKgJyS5z8vb0hoC-6oQAvD_BwE
Get tickets for the both of you to go. As much as you(and every other parent) might not like the idea of gaming been their child's true passion you shouldn't discount it as being something that has zero positives either.  |
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"So i'm struggling with gift ideas for my pre-teen son.
He wants the usual - dirt bike with a field - that elusive rich farmer hasn't cropped up yet ...
No, but seriously - what do you get a child who really wants for nothing, has no interest in sports, enjoys hanging out with friends and gaming (and I just can't bear spending more on that virtual stuff ).
Anyone any ideas for activities/outings out of the ordinary to make memories rather than more "stuff" that just ends up on the shelf?
Dirtbike is honestly great... And an interest like that focuses them as they grow including including what they spend their money on which is great. I get that it's not usable for lots of people because they don't have an area That's where a mountain bike for forests will come in handy.there great and big amoung teems .. new areas 3very month across the country being designated for them .. "
Yes, I agree. Unfortunately not feasible means or location wise.
He has a mountain bike and does that regularly |
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"Is it just for him or is it more a group type thing with friends?
Something just for him really, or that I could do with him as an experience...
Depending on age what about scuba lessons
If available in a pool, not sure he'd be one to take to the sea...hmmm, interesting. Thanks
Yeah he could do a PADI cert in Dublin and it’s pool based "
I see Bog M has posted a link for research, so thanks to both of you |
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"Is it just for him or is it more a group type thing with friends?
Something just for him really, or that I could do with him as an experience...
Depending on age what about scuba lessons
If available in a pool, not sure he'd be one to take to the sea...hmmm, interesting. Thanks
Did it during the week while away but over here you have to be over 16
These guys can give you details as
to what to do if your kids are younger
https://www.irishscubaacademy.com/"
Hope you had a blast, I'm not jealous, really |
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"The reptile zoo here in Kilkenny is an awesome day out and fairly reasonable "
We've been there when they were much younger and he's attended exotic animal parties too ... certainly an idea for a day out, thanks |
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"On a more serious note.
https://gamerfest.ie/?gclid=CjwKCAjwkaSaBhA4EiwALBgQaJZMtFvqpN9P1SJE92iS2B01tE6GHzr2PVO7ltlGziKgJyS5z8vb0hoC-6oQAvD_BwE
Get tickets for the both of you to go. As much as you(and every other parent) might not like the idea of gaming been their child's true passion you shouldn't discount it as being something that has zero positives either. "
That looks cool! Thanks
Gaming is partly entertainment but also very much a social outlet for him as he plays with friends and family...it has its place with limits certainly! |
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"Is it just for him or is it more a group type thing with friends?
Something just for him really, or that I could do with him as an experience...
Depending on age what about scuba lessons
If available in a pool, not sure he'd be one to take to the sea...hmmm, interesting. Thanks
Yeah he could do a PADI cert in Dublin and it’s pool based
I see Bog M has posted a link for research, so thanks to both of you "
He’s stole my thunder |
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"Is it just for him or is it more a group type thing with friends?
Something just for him really, or that I could do with him as an experience...
Depending on age what about scuba lessons
If available in a pool, not sure he'd be one to take to the sea...hmmm, interesting. Thanks
Yeah he could do a PADI cert in Dublin and it’s pool based
I see Bog M has posted a link for research, so thanks to both of you
He’s stole my thunder "
He added to it |
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"Is it just for him or is it more a group type thing with friends?
Something just for him really, or that I could do with him as an experience...
Depending on age what about scuba lessons
If available in a pool, not sure he'd be one to take to the sea...hmmm, interesting. Thanks
Yeah he could do a PADI cert in Dublin and it’s pool based
I see Bog M has posted a link for research, so thanks to both of you
He’s stole my thunder
He added to it "
Big brought the lightning |
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I've twin boys, I feel your pain! Although they're 21 now, but some gifts over the years;
Lego and technic sets
Cheap flights to a random city (I know that's far more expensive post covid).
An experience.
Decorate their room.
Whatever-is-trendy trainers.
A PUPPY.
|
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"Is it just for him or is it more a group type thing with friends?
Something just for him really, or that I could do with him as an experience...
Depending on age what about scuba lessons
If available in a pool, not sure he'd be one to take to the sea...hmmm, interesting. Thanks
Yeah he could do a PADI cert in Dublin and it’s pool based
I see Bog M has posted a link for research, so thanks to both of you
He’s stole my thunder
He added to it
Big brought the lightning"
After the thunder |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"So i'm struggling with gift ideas for my pre-teen son.
He wants the usual - dirt bike with a field - that elusive rich farmer hasn't cropped up yet ...
No, but seriously - what do you get a child who really wants for nothing, has no interest in sports, enjoys hanging out with friends and gaming (and I just can't bear spending more on that virtual stuff ).
Anyone any ideas for activities/outings out of the ordinary to make memories rather than more "stuff" that just ends up on the shelf?"
Is he into music? As in playing anything not just listening |
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"I've twin boys, I feel your pain! Although they're 21 now, but some gifts over the years;
Lego and technic sets
Cheap flights to a random city (I know that's far more expensive post covid).
An experience.
Decorate their room.
Whatever-is-trendy trainers.
A PUPPY.
"
You're out of the head wrecking years
He has Lego from last Christmas not built yet
Unfortunately abroad is currently not an option as much as I'd enjoy a small break with him.
His room was done not so long ago
An experience is what I'm researching and trying to get ideas on
Clothes/shoes - he gets a couple of bits every year he tells me he likes, my stocking fillers with a couple of books, family games and PJ's.
I'm looking for that ooomph present, the "Santa" equivalent I suppose...
He got an exotic pet he had begged for, for years, a couple of years ago (not from me!) - lost interest after a few months (I knew he would). Same with the daughter, got a puppy last year under the premise, she'd be responsible. Just doesn't happen.
An animal/pet is not a quick gift idea for any child, it's the responsibility for another life, for life; and a decision which needs a lot of research and dedication to seeing if and what is suitable.
I know that responsibility would end with me and I have enough on my plate
Thanks for your ideas |
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"So i'm struggling with gift ideas for my pre-teen son.
He wants the usual - dirt bike with a field - that elusive rich farmer hasn't cropped up yet ...
No, but seriously - what do you get a child who really wants for nothing, has no interest in sports, enjoys hanging out with friends and gaming (and I just can't bear spending more on that virtual stuff ).
Anyone any ideas for activities/outings out of the ordinary to make memories rather than more "stuff" that just ends up on the shelf?
Is he into music? As in playing anything not just listening "
He has never expressed an interest - TF, saved my nerves |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"So i'm struggling with gift ideas for my pre-teen son.
He wants the usual - dirt bike with a field - that elusive rich farmer hasn't cropped up yet ...
No, but seriously - what do you get a child who really wants for nothing, has no interest in sports, enjoys hanging out with friends and gaming (and I just can't bear spending more on that virtual stuff ).
Anyone any ideas for activities/outings out of the ordinary to make memories rather than more "stuff" that just ends up on the shelf?
Is he into music? As in playing anything not just listening
He has never expressed an interest - TF, saved my nerves "
No need for a recording voucher so voucher for a personalized gaming controller so,easy too you get the voucher and he designs it |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"So i'm struggling with gift ideas for my pre-teen son.
He wants the usual - dirt bike with a field - that elusive rich farmer hasn't cropped up yet ...
No, but seriously - what do you get a child who really wants for nothing, has no interest in sports, enjoys hanging out with friends and gaming (and I just can't bear spending more on that virtual stuff ).
Anyone any ideas for activities/outings out of the ordinary to make memories rather than more "stuff" that just ends up on the shelf?
Is he into music? As in playing anything not just listening
He has never expressed an interest - TF, saved my nerves
No need for a recording voucher so voucher for a personalized gaming controller so,easy too you get the voucher and he designs it "
Or a real shooting range if it's more memories you want, don't know age requirements but you have to do some of the work & not have us do it all for ya 
https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Attractions-g186591-Activities-c56-t210-Ireland.html |
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"So i'm struggling with gift ideas for my pre-teen son.
He wants the usual - dirt bike with a field - that elusive rich farmer hasn't cropped up yet ...
No, but seriously - what do you get a child who really wants for nothing, has no interest in sports, enjoys hanging out with friends and gaming (and I just can't bear spending more on that virtual stuff ).
Anyone any ideas for activities/outings out of the ordinary to make memories rather than more "stuff" that just ends up on the shelf?
Is he into music? As in playing anything not just listening
He has never expressed an interest - TF, saved my nerves
No need for a recording voucher so voucher for a personalized gaming controller so,easy too you get the voucher and he designs it
Or a real shooting range if it's more memories you want, don't know age requirements but you have to do some of the work & not have us do it all for ya
https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Attractions-g186591-Activities-c56-t210-Ireland.html"
So much easier though
A real shooting range would be cool  |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"On a more serious note.
https://gamerfest.ie/?gclid=CjwKCAjwkaSaBhA4EiwALBgQaJZMtFvqpN9P1SJE92iS2B01tE6GHzr2PVO7ltlGziKgJyS5z8vb0hoC-6oQAvD_BwE
Get tickets for the both of you to go. As much as you(and every other parent) might not like the idea of gaming been their child's true passion you shouldn't discount it as being something that has zero positives either. "
I would suggest this one too. My eldest lad is a serious game head and at preteen stage wanted to go to something like this. Unfortunately because of COVID it got cancelled completely. He is now more into teen discos and isn't to bothered about these now. |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
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"So i'm struggling with gift ideas for my pre-teen son.
He wants the usual - dirt bike with a field - that elusive rich farmer hasn't cropped up yet ...
No, but seriously - what do you get a child who really wants for nothing, has no interest in sports, enjoys hanging out with friends and gaming (and I just can't bear spending more on that virtual stuff ).
Anyone any ideas for activities/outings out of the ordinary to make memories rather than more "stuff" that just ends up on the shelf?
Is he into music? As in playing anything not just listening
He has never expressed an interest - TF, saved my nerves
No need for a recording voucher so voucher for a personalized gaming controller so,easy too you get the voucher and he designs it
Or a real shooting range if it's more memories you want, don't know age requirements but you have to do some of the work & not have us do it all for ya
https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Attractions-g186591-Activities-c56-t210-Ireland.html
So much easier though
A real shooting range would be cool "
Ya I'd imagine he'd think it was cool too n be good for memories with him |
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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago
|
"What kind of gaming is he into?
Fortnite, FIFA, Minecraft, Wrestling amongst others.
The gamer event was mentioned - in trying to get that organised "
I don't read mosy posts ffs |
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"What kind of gaming is he into?
Fortnite, FIFA, Minecraft, Wrestling amongst others.
The gamer event was mentioned - in trying to get that organised
I don't read mosy posts ffs "
You're not the only one it seems |
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I would suggest to still follow his interests heavily as a part of great gift is receiving the understanding and acceptance of what his interests are and for him to see that you see that and accept that its a part of who he is and what he enjoys!
I get the not wanting to spend more on gaming/virtuality but that is partly our own stuff more than anything to do with them... they wont grow up in the same world we did and virtuality is their future.
I saw you mentioned he enjoys soending time with his friends and that could be the highlight here, especially if they share interests... so why not try to locate an experience/event that you could get him and 2 of his best friends tickets to that align with their interests, but something they have unlikely experienced yet..
(Just using gaming as an example, sorry if thats not the key interest here) but perhaps a large scale gaming event/expo for a day where certain new games/ technology is on show with interactive experiences that they can attend together and would be excited by and is not just the typical in room/in house experience that might drive you mad!
All of a sudden you've gifted him with a brand new experience, new memories with his best friends (which they will never forget), an emphasised feeling of understanding & acceptance from his parents on his interests and you also provide him with a social public experience out in life that may tick a box ye were hoping for?
Hope it all works out, as with teenagers theres never a perfect answer |
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"I would suggest to still follow his interests heavily as a part of great gift is receiving the understanding and acceptance of what his interests are and for him to see that you see that and accept that its a part of who he is and what he enjoys!
I get the not wanting to spend more on gaming/virtuality but that is partly our own stuff more than anything to do with them... they wont grow up in the same world we did and virtuality is their future.
I saw you mentioned he enjoys soending time with his friends and that could be the highlight here, especially if they share interests... so why not try to locate an experience/event that you could get him and 2 of his best friends tickets to that align with their interests, but something they have unlikely experienced yet..
(Just using gaming as an example, sorry if thats not the key interest here) but perhaps a large scale gaming event/expo for a day where certain new games/ technology is on show with interactive experiences that they can attend together and would be excited by and is not just the typical in room/in house experience that might drive you mad!
All of a sudden you've gifted him with a brand new experience, new memories with his best friends (which they will never forget), an emphasised feeling of understanding & acceptance from his parents on his interests and you also provide him with a social public experience out in life that may tick a box ye were hoping for?
Hope it all works out, as with teenagers theres never a perfect answer "
Thank you for the detailed thought process - you've pretty much tried to put yourself in my shoes
Got some lovely ideas from everyone! Thanks all for your input |
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