When you have children, and they get older, you start to understand how much we as parents didn’t know when we were 16. You understand things deeper, not just because you remember but also because your kid may be able to drive or date sooner than you did. We all know what it’s like when our kids turn 16, and all the teen magazines tell them what they need in life and what is excellent right now. But teens don’t always see how expensive those things will be or how much that one item will cost. Here are six things that your 16-year-old needs for their birthday:

1. Driving Ed Course Or Lessons

Teenagers will want to drive, and it’s never too early to start. It doesn’t matter if you have a car or if your family has a car; you need to start teaching your teen how to drive. Most 16-year-olds can take a driving course in their junior year, and it’s the first time they have ever been behind the wheel for many teens. If you don’t know where to find one, the internet is full of free driving schools that will teach your teen how to drive. You can use a GPS Tracking device to monitor and see where your teen is driving.

2. Smartphone Or Tablet

Smartphones have become a necessity in today’s world, as teens can use them to stay connected with friends, family, and even teachers. Many teens are on social media all day long and even have a Twitter account that is constantly updated. Teens need to be on social media for the same reasons as adults, but they also need it. It is an excellent way for a teen to stay in touch with friends and family members who live far away from them.

3. Computer Or Laptop

Teens are becoming increasingly dependent on computers, whether using them for school work or playing games. It is common to find a 16-year-old with a laptop or a desktop computer at home. Many teens have social media accounts and use their computers for schoolwork and homework. If your teenager does not already have one, it is time to put one in their stocking this year.

4. Video Games

Video games are a great way to keep your teen entertained and away from the television. Most video games are designed to support a teenager engaged for hours on end. If you have tried to get them to do their homework or chores, they will ignore you and say they have other plans. Video games can be used as distraction tools, so if your teen is having trouble with schoolwork, it is time to get them a new video game.

5. Gadgets

Gadgets are a great way to keep teenagers entertained and busy, especially in the winter months when they are inside playing video games all day long instead of going outside and playing sports or other activities. Gadgets can be expensive, but they are also fun to use and make your teenager feel like they have the latest thing on their hands because they do not know what gadget will come next. It’s always nice to get a gadget you did not even know you needed until you got it.

6. Music Player

Music is a great way to get your teen out of their room and away from the television or computer. Music can also be a great way to distract your teenager from doing homework or chores. Even if they are not listening to the music, they will play it and pay attention to it simultaneously. If you are looking for a gift that will keep your teen entertained, look no further than the music you give them.

If it is your child’s birthday, it is time to start thinking about what you will get them for Christmas. If you do not already have a gift list, then it is time to go out and buy your teen the best gifts they could possibly ask for this year. Most teenagers will spend their money on the gifts they want, so if you want your teenager to be happy this birthday season, you will have to get them the best gifts they could ask for.