Whether you’re six months or sixteen years old, being in the hospital can be scary. Activities, toys and games provide a positive distraction from the unfamiliar sights and sounds of the hospital. If you’re looking for a gift for a teen in hospital or looking for ideas for donations to our program, here are some suggestions from our child life specialists:
13 gift ideas that could make a difference to a teen
- DVD movies (not Blu-ray)
Sometimes you just need a mindless movie to distract you! If donating movies please make sure that they are PG-13 or less (we can’t share R rated movies.) - Bath gels, lotions, nail wraps, nail polish and nail polish remover
A little pampering is relaxing for adults and teens alike. - Art materials
While many craft and art kits are perfect for our younger population, teens are often ready for more fine art materials. Pick up some pastels, watercolor paints, quality color pencils, and sketch books for a budding artist. Finding outlets for self-expression is particularly important at this age – craft materials that encourage expression ex. collage materials, journals and sketchbooks as well as fine markers, quality coloring pencils, watercolors - Activity books, word searches, crossword puzzles, and Sudoku
Sudoku can be totally absorbing for teens and adults alike. Booklets are easy to find at bookstores and corner stores. - Gift cards in all price ranges
Starbucks, Target, Walmart, movie tickets, sporting goods stores, Best Buy, iTunes etc. - Fuzzy socks and pajamas
Fun pajama pants; t-shirts/hats with U of A logo are always a hit. - No More Tangles spray and nice hair products
Bed head can be a beast in the hospital! Conditioners, shampoos, hair products, brushes and hair ties are extremely helpful. - Nerf toys
Nerf toys such as basketball, football, sets, toss games can help teens who are ready to get up and move around a little, but might need some encouragement. - Playing cards, magic sets, UNO cards and UNO Attack
- Brand new books and magazines
Check out the young adult section of the bookstore and ask what is trending among the bookstores young adult audience. We often find that classic chapter books are addressed in school and may have already been read. Magazines like Teen Ink, National Geographic, Time for Kids, and Teen People provide a welcome diversion. - Playstation 3 games
Games must be rated E or teen for us to share. - Classic and newer board games
Monopoly, Scattergories and Clue are classics that always are winners in our unit, but there are also new board games making a splash – Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride are very popular among families and teens. - Kinetic Sand
This is really good for kids with sensory needs.
The best gifts are generally those that keep our teens busy for a little while, as it helps to get their mind off of being in the hospital. Do you have other suggestions? Let us know in the comments.