best gifts for tweens 2016

The tween years, typically defined as the ages between 10 and 12, can be a tricky time when it comes to gift giving. These pre-teens are no longer interested in toys and childish things, but they are not quite teenagers yet either. So what do you give them as a gift? Luckily, there are plenty of options out there that are sure to please even the most discerning tweens. From tech gadgets to fashion accessories, here are some of the best gifts for tweens in 2016.

1. Smartphones and Tablets
In today’s digital age, it’s no surprise that tweens are obsessed with technology. Giving them a smartphone or tablet is not only a practical gift, but it also allows them to stay connected with their friends and family. The iPhone 7, with its improved camera and water resistance, is a popular choice among tweens. The iPad Mini 4, with its compact size and powerful performance, is also a great option for those who prefer a tablet.

2. Virtual Reality Headsets
Virtual reality has taken the world by storm, and tweens are no exception. A virtual reality headset, such as the Google Cardboard or the Samsung Gear VR, allows tweens to immerse themselves in a whole new world of gaming and entertainment. With the availability of various VR apps and games, this gift is sure to keep them entertained for hours.

3. Fitness Tracker
With childhood obesity on the rise, it’s important for tweens to stay active and fit. A fitness tracker, such as the Fitbit Flex or the Garmin Vivofit Jr., can help them keep track of their daily activity levels and motivate them to stay active. These trackers also come in fun and colorful designs, making them a stylish accessory for tweens.

4. DIY Kits
Tweens are at an age where they are starting to develop their own interests and hobbies. DIY kits, such as jewelry making kits or science experiment kits, are a great way to encourage their creativity and keep them engaged. These kits come with all the necessary materials and instructions, making it easy for tweens to explore new hobbies.

5. Fashion Accessories
Tweens are becoming more aware of fashion and are starting to develop their own sense of style. Giving them fashion accessories, such as a statement necklace or a trendy watch, can help them express their individuality. And since tweens are still growing, accessories are a great gift option as they can be worn for a longer period of time compared to clothing.

6. Books
Books are always a timeless gift, and there are plenty of options for tweens. From fantasy novels to graphic novels, there is a wide range of genres to choose from. Giving tweens a book they can relate to or one that sparks their interests can help foster a love for reading and expand their imagination.

7. Subscription Boxes
Subscription boxes have gained popularity in recent years, and there are now options specifically designed for tweens. These boxes, such as the OwlCrate Jr. or the Kidpik subscription box, come filled with age-appropriate items such as books, toys, and accessories. It’s like giving the gift of surprise every month!

8. Headphones
With the popularity of smartphones and tablets, tweens are spending more time listening to music and watching videos. A good pair of headphones, such as the Beats Solo 3 or the Bose SoundLink, can enhance their listening experience and provide some privacy when needed. Plus, with various colors and designs available, tweens can show off their personal style with their headphones.

9. Board Games
With the rise of technology, board games may seem like a thing of the past. However, they are still a great gift option for tweens. Board games, such as Settlers of Catan or Ticket to Ride, not only provide entertainment but also encourage social interaction and problem-solving skills.

10. Art Supplies
For the creatively inclined tweens, art supplies make a perfect gift. A set of quality markers, colored pencils, or paints can help them explore their artistic talents. And who knows, you may just be gifting the world’s next great artist!

11. Sports Equipment
If the tween in your life is into sports, giving them new equipment can be a thoughtful and practical gift. A new soccer ball, basketball, or skateboard can motivate them to stay active and improve their skills. You can even take it a step further and enroll them in a sports camp or class to help them further develop their talents.

12. Personalized Gifts
A personalized gift, such as a monogrammed backpack or a custom-made piece of jewelry, adds a special touch to any present. It shows that you put thought and effort into the gift, making it even more meaningful for the recipient.

13. Musical Instruments
If your tween has shown an interest in music, giving them a musical instrument can be a great gift. Whether it’s a guitar, keyboard, or drum set, learning to play an instrument can be a fun and rewarding experience for tweens. Plus, it can also help them develop discipline and patience.

14. Movie or Concert Tickets

Tweens are starting to develop their own taste in movies and music, and giving them tickets to see their favorite band in concert or to watch a highly-anticipated movie can be an exciting gift. It also allows them to spend quality time with friends or family, making memories that will last a lifetime.

15. Experience Gifts
Sometimes, the best gifts are not material things but experiences. Consider giving the tween in your life an experience gift, such as a day at an amusement park, a cooking class, or a trip to a nearby attraction. These gifts not only provide entertainment but also create lasting memories.

In conclusion, finding the perfect gift for tweens may seem daunting, but with these ideas, you are sure to find something that they will love. Whether it’s a high-tech gadget or a simple DIY kit, the key is to consider their interests and hobbies and choose a gift that will both entertain and educate them. Happy gifting!

can you tell when someone blocks you on snapchat

Snapchat has become one of the most popular social media platforms in recent years. With its unique features like disappearing messages and filters, it has gained a massive following, especially among the younger generation. However, like any other social media platform, Snapchat also has its share of drama and conflicts. One of the most common issues that arise on Snapchat is people blocking each other. It can be frustrating and confusing to not know if someone has blocked you on Snapchat. In this article, we will discuss how you can tell if someone has blocked you on Snapchat and what it means.

First, let’s understand what blocking means on Snapchat. When you block someone on Snapchat, it means that you have cut off all communication with that person. They will not be able to send you snaps or messages, view your stories, or see your location on the map. Similarly, you will not be able to do any of those things with the person you have blocked. It is a way to ensure that you and the other person do not have any contact on the platform.

Now that we know what blocking means on Snapchat, let’s dive into how you can tell if someone has blocked you. There are a few signs that can indicate that you have been blocked by someone on Snapchat. The most obvious one is that you will not be able to see their snaps or stories anymore. When you open Snapchat, you will not see their username on your list of recent chats, and if you try to search for them, their name will not appear. This is the most reliable way to tell if someone has blocked you on Snapchat.

Another sign that someone has blocked you on Snapchat is that you will not be able to add them as a friend. When you try to add someone on Snapchat, you either have to search for their username or scan their Snapcode. However, if someone has blocked you, you will not be able to find their username, and if you try to scan their Snapcode, it will show an error message. This is another indication that you have been blocked.

Apart from these signs, there are a few other ways to tell if someone has blocked you on Snapchat. If you have previously had conversations with the person, you can check your chat history to see if the messages are still there. If the chat history has disappeared, it could mean that the person has blocked you. You can also try to send them a message. If the message fails to send, it could indicate that you have been blocked. However, keep in mind that there could be other reasons for a message not being delivered, such as poor internet connection.

Now that we have discussed how you can tell if someone has blocked you on Snapchat, let’s talk about what it means. Being blocked on Snapchat can be hurtful and confusing, especially if the person was a friend or someone you were close to. It could mean that they no longer want to communicate with you or that they are upset with you. However, it is essential to remember that you cannot control how others behave, and it is best to respect their decision to block you.

It is also crucial to understand that blocking someone on Snapchat does not necessarily mean the end of a friendship or relationship. People often block others in the heat of the moment, and they may unblock them later. However, if you have been blocked, it is best to give the person some space and not try to contact them through other means. It is also a good idea to reflect on the reasons why you may have been blocked and try to work on improving yourself if necessary.

If you suspect that someone has blocked you on Snapchat, it is always a good idea to confirm it before jumping to conclusions. You can ask a mutual friend to check if they can see the person’s stories or snaps. If they can, then it is most likely that you have been blocked. However, if they cannot, it could be a technical issue with Snapchat, and you may not have been blocked after all.

Now that we have covered the basics of blocking on Snapchat let’s discuss some frequently asked questions about this topic.

Q: Can you tell if someone has blocked you on Snapchat?

A: Yes, there are a few signs that indicate that someone has blocked you on Snapchat, such as not being able to see their stories or snaps and not being able to add them as a friend.

Q: Can someone block you on Snapchat without you knowing?

A: Yes, someone can block you on Snapchat without you knowing. However, there are a few signs that can indicate that you have been blocked.

Q: What happens when you block someone on Snapchat?

A: When you block someone on Snapchat, you will not be able to see their stories or snaps, and they will not be able to see yours. You will also not be able to add each other as friends or communicate through the app.

Q: Can you still see someone’s messages if you block them on Snapchat?

A: No, when you block someone on Snapchat, their messages will disappear from your chat history, and you will not be able to send or receive messages from them.

Q: Is it possible to unblock someone on Snapchat?

A: Yes, you can unblock someone on Snapchat. To do so, go to your list of blocked users, click on the person you want to unblock, and select “unblock.”

In conclusion, blocking on Snapchat is a way to cut off all communication with someone on the platform. There are a few signs that can indicate that you have been blocked, such as not being able to see the person’s stories or snaps and not being able to add them as a friend. Being blocked on Snapchat can be hurtful, but it is essential to respect the other person’s decision and give them space. It is also a good idea to reflect on the reasons why you may have been blocked and improve yourself if necessary. Remember, it is always better to communicate and resolve conflicts rather than resorting to blocking someone.