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47 Best Gifts for a 13 Year Old Girl Chosen by 13 Year Old Girls


If you have a young lady at home who is getting ready to head into her teenage years and you’re wondering what to get a 13-year-old for her birthday, look no further.  Below is a compilation of my best gifts for a 13-year-old girl.

Top 6 Best Gifts for 13 Year Old GirlsWhy It's BestRating
Mason Kreations FireFly Lights Silver WireLighted string photo hanger to brighten her room♥♥♥♥♥
Random House Wreck This Journal7 million sold, much more than a journal♥♥♥♥♥
Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant CameraInstant printed pics, like the Polaroid days♥♥♥♥♥
Tulip One Step Tie-Dye KitFun for groups and alone, creative outlet♥♥♥♥♥
JBL Waterproof Bluetooth SpeakerSinging in the shower, portable - clips on anywhere, even answer the phone with it♥♥♥♥♥
Page Contents
47 Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls in 2022Firefly String LightsWreck this JournalFujifilm Instax Mini 9 CameraSunmns Colorful Bundle Kit Accessories Set Cehomi 20 Pcs Pearl Hair ClipsTulip 18 Color Tie-Dye KitJBL CLIP 3 - Waterproof Portable Bluetooth SpeakerDIY Lip Balm KitMkay Wireless Over-Ear HeadphonesBecoming Me Journal7 Rules of Life Motivational PosterBONNYCO Pink Cinema Light BoxThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective TeensUmbra Hangit Photo DisplaySky Organics USDA Organic Lip Balm SetPurelis Natural Bath Bomb Gift SetJane Iredale Pure and Simple Makeup KitApple AirPods with Charging Case Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging StandMermaid Tail BlanketFancy Flash DrivePersonalized Stainless Steel Horizontal Bar NecklaceThe Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (A Hunger Games Novel)Vera Bradley Signature Smartphone WristletVictrola Vintage Record PlayerJar Melo Scratch Art NotesCraft-tastic DIY Wall CollageJUST IN STONES All Natural Mini Heart Assorted GemstoneAlex and Ani Compass BraceletWhaline 12 Pack Chiffon Hair ScrunchiesVera Wang Princess Eau de Toilette SprayNintendo Switch LightHydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle, Straw LidConverse All Star Low SneakerDIY Bath Bomb KitMario Badescu Spritz Mist and Glow Facial Spray CollectionSturdy and Heavy Duty Writing Desk for Small SpacesSHANY Nail Polish SetDhwazz 8 Inch WiFi Digital Photo FrameKALIDI Casual Backpack for Women,15 Inches LaptopThe Mind Card GameHimalayan Salt Lamp with Dimmer SwitchThe Connecticut Home Company Shag with Sherpa ReversibleMelissa & Doug Giant Stuffed Sea TurtleMAKEMECHIC Tie Dye Crop Top HoodiesAdidas Women's Cloudfoam Pure Running ShoePhone XR Case Aura HolographicGifts for Similar AgesMilestones for 13-Year-Old Girls Cognitive MilestonesEmotional MilestonesSocial Milestones Physical MilestonesFAQs about the Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old GirlsWhat should I write on my 13-year-old's birthday card?How can I make my 13-year-old girl's birthday special?What can I do instead of throwing a birthday party for my 13-year-old girl?What are other good birthday gifts for 13-year-old girls?How do I bond with my 13-year-old daughter?How do you make a party for 13-year-old girls fun?Final Thoughts About the Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls 

47 Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls in 2022

Firefly String Lights

Firefly String Lights: Chances are, your girl loves taking pictures with her friends.  Whether it’s with the Instax camera above or her phone, there are probably pictures all over her room.  A great gift might be this lighted photo display which would brighten any teen’s room.  The LED lights are powered by a battery and last a long time.

Wreck this Journal

Wreck This Journal: Now in Color
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Wreck this Journal: In case you haven’t heard, these journals are taking over the world.  Literally.  More than 7 million copies have been sold and it’s just getting started.  Is your teen afraid of making mistakes or failing?  This is the perfect tool to get over that.

With guided instructions on each page, this journal literally makes you do the opposite of what you’re used to.  Such as working it in whatever order you want, and making your own page numbers, to start.  Other instructions include to document the color of your dinner on the page or to eat colorful candy and lick the page.

It’s perfect for teens and adults alike.  Many reviewers bought multiple copies for themselves AND their kids.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Camera

Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Instant Camera - Ice Blue, 2.7x4.7x4.6 (Instax Mini 9 - Ice Blue)
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Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Camera: Remember the good old days of Polaroid?  Instant pictures, whenever you please.  Well, the trend is back in town and the Fujifilm Instax is a perfect fit for every teen girl.  Available in multiple colors to fit every teen.

Sunmns Colorful Bundle Kit Accessories Set 

Sunmns Colorful Bundle Kit Accessories Set Compatible with Instax Mini 12 11 9 8 90 70 Camera, Accessory Include Film Stickers, Desk Frames, Hanging Frame
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If you get your teen the Instax camera above, be sure to grab an accessory pack as well extra film.  The accessory pack is full of cool hanging frames, desk frames, and sticker frames to further dress up the photos.

Cehomi 20 Pcs Pearl Hair Clips

28 Pcs Hair Clips for Girls, Hair Barrettes for Women|Pearl Hair Accessories-Acrylic Resin Bobby Pins,Sweet Handmade Hairpin Headwear
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Your teen will love jazzing up her hair with these modern and trendy Pearl Hair Clips by Cehomi. With 20 hair clips to choose from, she’ll have tons of options to match with her outfits. 

Tulip 18 Color Tie-Dye Kit

Tulip One-Step Tie-Dye Kit Party Supplies, 18 Bottles Tie Dye, Rainbow, 1 Count (Pack of 1)
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Tulip 18 Color Tie-Dye Kit: This classic activity is sure to be a hit with any girl.  Many colors to choose from to customize your own apparel.  I like this kit because it has enough supplies for a party of 6 people so it might even be a good birthday gathering activity.  Not only that, but this kit is not like the kit I’m used to from a decade ago – there is no soaking required.

JBL CLIP 3 – Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker

JBL Clip 3, Black - Waterproof, Durable & Portable Bluetooth Speaker - Up to 10 Hours of Play - Includes Noise-Cancelling Speakerphone & Wireless Streaming
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JBL CLIP 3 – Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker: I’m pretty sure most teen girls do their fair of singing in the shower, so this makes the perfect gift.  She can karaoke to her favorite tunes with this waterproof speaker.  It’s portable, can clip on anything, so it’s perfect for traveling.  It can even be used to answer phone calls as long as it’s connected to a cell phone via Bluetooth.

DIY Lip Balm Kit

DIY Gift Kits 73-Piece DIY Lip Balm Kit | Includes All Natural & Organic Essential Oils, Shea Butter, Filling Tray & More | Makes 23 Homemade Lip Balms | for Dry & Chapped Lips | for Kids & Adults
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DIY Lip Balm Kit: Another cool kit to try would be this DIY Lip Balm Kit.  It uses natural and organic ingredients, high-quality ingredients such as shea, coconut butter, and essential oils.  This kit comes with 23 tubes which are also enough for a gathering of teenage girls to have a lot of fun with.  With four essential oils to choose from, everyone can make a lip balm that they like.

Mkay Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

MKay Bluetooth Headphones Wireless, Boys Over Ear Headset V5.0 with Microphone, Foldable & Lightweight, Support Tf Card MP3 Mode and Fm Radio for Cellphones Laptop TV(Black-Blue)
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Mkay Wireless Headphones: If your teen loves to listen to music, she might appreciate a nice pair of new headphones, such as these Beats Solo3 Wireless ones.  Not only are they pretty to look at, but they also deliver exceptional sound and are noise-proof.  They also can last 25 hrs on a single charge and fold easily for storage or travel.  Win all around.

Becoming Me Journal

Becoming Me: A Work in Progress: Color, Journal & Brainstorm Your Way to a Creative Life
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Becoming Me Journal: I love how this journal is full of positive affirmations while helping the reader explore who they are.  It asks probing questions, such as “Who inspires you?” and invites you to explore your thoughts.  There’s also plenty of opportunities for coloring and drawing, as well as journaling.  If you purchase this, be sure to grab some Colored Gel Pens to go along with it.

7 Rules of Life Motivational Poster

HoneyKICK 7 Rules of Life Motivational Poster, 11 x 14 Inches Unframed, Printed on Premium Cardstock Paper
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7 Rules of Life Motivational Poster: If you’re looking for an inspirational gift for your teen, check out this cool poster that can help keep your teen on the straight and narrow.  Full of inspirational rules, it’s sure to be a light on her path as she goes forward.

BONNYCO Pink Cinema Light Box

Pink Cinema Light Box with 400 Letters & Emojis & 2 Markers - BONNYCO | Led Light Box Home Office & Room Decor | Light Up Sign Letters Board Gifts for Women & Girls Christmas & Birthdays | Pink Decor
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Teenage girls tend to have a message to share… all the time. With this Pink Cinema Light Box from BONNYCO, she can choose from 300 letters, emojis, and 2 markers to create the perfect sign for her room. Then, she can light it up with the LED feature. 

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens
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7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens: This book has been praised by teens as well as adults for being an eye-opener full of insights.  Start your teen off on the right foot and give them a tool they can refer to as they grow.  It can help them be more productive, efficient, and happy on their way to adulthood.

Umbra Hangit Photo Display

Umbra Hangit Wall Memo and Picture Frame
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Umbra Hangit Photo Display: If you don’t need lights, there is also this photo display that can hold up to 40 of her favorite pictures.  It can hold a picture of any size and can be mounted easily.  To mix things up from the typical installation, try mounting it with the string running vertically.

Sky Organics USDA Organic Lip Balm Set

USDA Organic Lip Balm Trio by Sky Organics (3 Sticks) Winter Flavors Gift Pack Cruelty-Free Candy Cane, Gingerbread, Vanilla Latté Lip Balm Gift Set for Dry Lips Limited Edition Made In USA
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Lip balm never goes out of style and the Sky Organics USDA Organic Lip Balm Set offers an all-natural option to keep your daughter’s lips both beautiful and healthy. The set comes free of petroleum, fillers, soy, and other creepy chemicals. Instead, these balms use nourishing ingredients like organic sunflower oil, organic beeswax, Vitamin E, and more. Flavors included are Tahitian Vanilla, Cherry Bomb, Eucalyptus Mint, Tropical Coconut, Strawberry Bliss, and Tangy Citrus.

Purelis Natural Bath Bomb Gift Set

Sulfate Free Natural Bath Bomb Gift Set. Bath Bombs for Kids, Women & Men. Best Birthday Gift Set! Individually Wrapped Bath Balls Infused with Essential Oils & Shea Butter 100% Natural, Sulfate Free
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Girls love luxury and what can be more luxurious than the Purelis Natural Bath Bomb Gift Set? With 40 different bath bombs, your daughter can enjoy over a month of lavish baths to help her rejuvenate from a long day in middle school. Each features beautiful colors and aromas without toxic or harmful ingredients.

Jane Iredale Pure and Simple Makeup Kit

jane iredale Pure & Simple Makeup Kit, Dark, .40 oz., 4 Count (Pack of 1)
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jane iredale Pure and Simple Makeup Kit: This natural makeup kit comes in 5 shades and includes two mineral foundations, two eyeshadows, a blush, and a lip and cheek stain. This makeup is full of nourishing ingredients to keep acne-prone skin happy. Pair with a jane iredale Mascara for a full face fix. 

Apple AirPods with Charging Case 

Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds, Bluetooth Headphones with Lightning Charging Case Included, Over 24 Hours of Battery Life, Effortless Setup for iPhone
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The newest Apple AirPods are an expensive gift for a 13-year-old, but it’s something that you know they’ll get hours and hours of use out of. These come with their own charging case that gives over 24 hours of listening to whatever music they love.

They are automatically on and automatically connected to her Apple devices to make set up a breeze. She can use them to summon Siri and even talk on the phone with noise cancellation. Since these come with a warranty, you can rest assured that they’ll be okay until the next generation of cool AirPods come out and makes these obsolete. 

Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging Stand

Belkin F7U083ttBLK Wireless Charging Stand 10W
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Belkin Boost Up Wireless Charging Stand: Your new teen probably uses their electronics non-stop. This reliable wireless charging stand will come to the rescue when they are running low. It’s QI certified and works with both Apple and Samsung devices.

Mermaid Tail Blanket

LAGHCAT Mermaid Tail Blanket Crochet Mermaid Blanket for Adult, Soft All Seasons Sleeping Blankets, Classic Pattern (71
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Mermaid Tail Blanket: What girl wouldn’t love to pretend to be a mermaid?  This thing is so cool, I might just buy one myself.  Soft and cozy, it’s great for snuggling, the reading corner, or cold rainy days.  The way the yarn shimmers looks very mermaid-appropriate too.

Fancy Flash Drive

USB 3.0 Flash Drive 128GB, Techkey F90 Pen Drive High Speed Thumb Drive Capless Pendrive Retractable USB Memory Stick Shock Resistant Jump Drive Compact Size(Includes a Type-C Conversion Connector)
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Fancy Flash Drive: This Techkey USB Flash Drive is the perfect accessory for school.  Full of pink gems, this flash drive is as stylish as it is practical.  It also comes in a variety of storage sizes, from 16GB all the way to 128 GB.

Personalized Stainless Steel Horizontal Bar Necklace

Caramel Sweet Life Personalized Stainless Steel Horizontal Bar Necklace Pendant 5 Colors with Chain (Golden)
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Stainless Steel Bar Necklace: I love this necklace – its clean, sleek look is timeless and very mature looking.  Perfect for entry into teenage-hood.  This one is available in 5 colors: stainless steel, rose gold, gold, blue, and black.

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (A Hunger Games Novel)

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (A Hunger Games Novel) (The Hunger Games)
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Chances are your teen has already read through all four books of The Hunger Games series, but have they read the newest (and 5th) addition? Go back in time and experience what life was like for the 18-year-old Coriolanus Snow, a new mentor in the Games. Purchase the rest of The Hunger Games series to gift her a complete set.

Vera Bradley Signature Smartphone Wristlet

Vera Bradley Women's Cotton Smartphone Wristlet With RFID Protection, Bloom Boom Navy - Recycled Cotton, One Size
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The Vera Bradley Signature Smartphone Wristlet comes in over 30 designs, you’re bound to find one that matches her personality. It’s perfect for stashing a phone (which is every teen’s favorite accessory), and because it’s a wristlet, she’ll always know where her valuables are.

Victrola Vintage Record Player

Victrola Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Portable Suitcase Record Player with Built-in Speakers | Upgraded Turntable Audio Sound| Includes Extra Stylus | Mint (VSC-550BT-HOM)
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If you don’t believe that trends circle back around, then just take a look at the Victrola Record Player Vintage 3-Speed Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable with Speakers. Records were amazing for many years until they were made obsolete by cassettes and CDs and now digital music files. But there’s nothing like the raw, scratchy sound of a new record.

This 3-speed turntable works with all vinyl records. It has built-in speakers or you can use the headphone jack. Since it works with Bluetooth, you can also use it to play your phone’s music if you want. The suitcase design is charming and makes storage or taking to a friend’s house a breeze. Plus, with 27 color choices, she can pick whatever design matches her room.

Throw in a couple of records, and this is a great gift for a 13-year-old girl for any occasion.

Jar Melo Scratch Art Notes

Jar Melo Magic Scratch Notes; 130 Count, 2 Wooden Styluses, Rainbow Scratch Paper, Scratch Paper Art Set, Scratch Crafts Gifts for Kids, Art & Craft Supplies, Stocking Stuffer
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Jar Melo Scratch Art Notes: I think scratch art is one of the coolest things invented for kids.  My kids love uncovering the colors below the black surface.  These notes are a cool way to do that, and the fun part is you can write anything you want.

Craft-tastic DIY Wall Collage

Craft-tastic DIY Wall Collage – Craft Kit – Personalize Your Space with Inspiring Quotes, Pre-cut Designs & Pictures
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The Craft-tastic DIY Wall Collage lets your teenage girl arrange and rearrange cute sayings, pictures, and more to completely customize a collage for a wall in her bedroom. It includes 251 pieces to get creative with including wall-safe tape, so no worries about that. 

JUST IN STONES All Natural Mini Heart Assorted Gemstone

Justinstones All Natural 25mm Mini Puffy Heart Assorted Gemstone Healing Crystal Pocket Stone Rock Collection Box (Pack of 24)
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The JUST IN STONES All Natural 25mm Mini Puffy Heart Assorted Gemstone offers 24 heart-shaped crystals your teen can fit in her pocket or display on her bookshelf. Girls love all things esoteric as they explore their fantasy side and gems seem to help stimulate their thoughts.

Teens can use these as decoration or even use them to make wrap necklaces. This came right off my thirteen-year-old daughter’s list which is loaded up with similar stones and crystals. Find a wooden bowl to store the gems or risk finding them all over your house.

Alex and Ani Compass Bracelet

Alex and Ani Path of Symbols Expandable Bangle for Women, Compass Charm, Rafaelian Rose Gold Finish, 2 to 3.5 in
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The Alex and ANI Compass III Bangle Bracelet looks like a stylish bangle with cute charms, but its meaning runs so much deeper than that. The compass charm will remind the 13-year-old girl in your life that she’s capable of finding her own way. This bracelet represents objective, direction, and transition, so it’s perfect for the transition into the teen years. This high-quality, one-size-fits-all bracelet is available in Rafaelian silver, rose gold, and gold. 

Whaline 12 Pack Chiffon Hair Scrunchies

Whaline 12 Pack Chiffon Hair Scrunchies Large Hair Bow Elastic Hair Bands Ponytail Holder for Women and Girls
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If you haven’t heard of a VSCO Girl yet, get ready because it’s a big deal trend with a few benefits. Either way, one of the top things on a VSCO girls’ list is a set of Scrunchies like this set by Whaline. You’ll get a variety of cute neutral colors and elegant floral designs. Super soft hair scrunchies will have your daughter squealing in delight and keep hair out of her face with style.

Vera Wang Princess Eau de Toilette Spray

Vera Wang Princess Hair and Body Mist, 8.4 fl Oz
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Show her that she really is your princess by gifting her this super popular Princess Eau de Toilette Spray by Vera Wang. The floral scent releases a blend of vanilla, exotic flowers, and fruits into your daughter’s life to give her an upbeat attitude to make it through the day with a happy mood for hours. She’ll love how the bottle looks too.

Nintendo Switch Light

Nintendo Switch Lite - Turquoise
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Get the teen in your life the newest video game console. The Nintendo Switch Light uses all the games from the full console but packs easily in a backpack for long weekends visiting family or just for the doctors waiting room. This is the next generation of popular and powerful portable consoles by Nintendo.

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle, Straw Lid

Hydro Flask Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle Wide Mouth with Straw Lid (Pacific, 32-Ounce)
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Yes, the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle with Straw Lid is a little pricey. However, it will actually save you money on water bottles. It’s BPA and phthalate-free and made with food-grade stainless steel to keep beverages hot for 12 hours and cold for 24 hours. Also included is a built-in straw for easy travel and drinking.

Converse All Star Low Sneaker

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline Gray Lace-Up Sneaker - 5.5 B(M) US
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Whether she’s sporty or girly, the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline White Lace-Up Sneaker will be a comfortable and stylish option. The best part of these cute shoes is their no-tie design. The laces stretch and the collar is elastic. She can throw these neutral shoes on quickly when she oversleeps and they’ll look great with just about any outfit.

If white would get too dirty, you can pick from other neutral colors like navy, gray, and black. Or, if she’s super dramatic, buy her red Chucks. Shoot, buy yourself a pair to match. They’re awesome.

DIY Bath Bomb Kit

DIY Bath Bomb Kit: Have you heard of bath bombs?  They are ball-shaped and once dropped in the tub, they fizz and melt and usually are filled with fun scents and/or colors.  Females of all ages enjoy these, so they are perfect for teens as well.  This kit includes everything you need to make 12 “cupcake” shaped bath bombs.  The kit has 8 different essential oils and cards with recipe suggestions.

Mario Badescu Spritz Mist and Glow Facial Spray Collection

Mario Badescu Facial Spray Trio - Cucumber, Rose, Lavender - Cooling, Hydrating Mists for All Skin Types
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The Mario Badescu Spritz Mist and Glow Facial Spray Collection is an ever so popular brand of face products to improve skin. The brand uses natural ingredients like flowers, herbs, and plants. While the sprays use food dye, they are a paraben and cruelty-free way to hydrate the face without pore-blocking creams or oils perfect for young skin.

Sturdy and Heavy Duty Writing Desk for Small Spaces

The Office Oasis Small Computer Desk with Cable Management Tray, 36in Length, Pear
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Want to get your teen a simple desk to do homework or work on her computer that won’t take up a lot of space? Try the Sturdy and Heavy Duty Writing Desk for Small Spaces it’s a tabletop with legs and underneath it has storage to keep cords contained. Choose from three wood stains for the top to pair with her decor to give her a space to work on her laptop, draw, or do homework all for a low price.

SHANY Nail Polish Set

SHANY Nail Art Set Nail Polish - Glitter, Metallic , Pearls, Neon and Matte Nail Polish Nail Art Drawing Decoration Set With Built-in Thin Nail Art Brush - 24 Famous Colors Nail Polish Bulk
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Most teen girls like to paint their nails, so the SHANY Nail Art Set is a pretty foolproof gift. The thin brushes are ideal for creating all kinds of designs. This includes 24 different colors, but to make it extra-cool, it has 4 neon colors, 4 pearl colors, 11 matte colors, and 5 glitter colors. This polish is cruelty-free and dries quickly.

Note: buy them the OPI Nail Polish in Alpine Snow to use as the base coat before painting the whole nail or decorating each nail with this kit. It works so much better that way.

Dhwazz 8 Inch WiFi Digital Photo Frame

Frameo 10.1 Inch WiFi Digital Photo Frame with IPS Touch Screen HD Display, Easy to Send Picture and Video Remotely via APP from Anywhere, 16GB Large Storage, Auto Rotate, Slideshow, Wall Mountable
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The Dhwazz 8 Inch WiFi Digital Photo Frame comes with 8BG of internal storage to hold hundreds of pictures of your teen and all of her friends during the day and a smart sleep mode for night. She can upload pictures instantly from an app on her phone to the touch-screen 800 x 1280 high-resolution frame to always keep those she loves nearby. Place it on her desk, or mount it to a wall and allow all her memories to decorate her room in either portrait or landscape mode with a simple WiFi connection.

KALIDI Casual Backpack for Women,15 Inches Laptop

KALIDI Casual Backpack for Women,15 Inches Laptop Backpack Classic Camping Rucksack Travel Outdoor Daypack College Bag Frost Green
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All teen girls need a versatile backpack and its even better to have one for school and the KALIDI Casual Backpack for other activities. The square shape holds a laptop along with anything else a girl may need in a wide assortment of colors including the current trendy colors mustard yellow and maroon. It comes with a main spacious compartment and several internal and external pockets to accommodate everything from ink pens to water bottles.

The Mind Card Game

The Mind Card Game - Cooperative Family Game Night Fun for Kids & Adults, Ages 8+, 2-4 Players, 15 Minute Playtime by Pandasaurus Games
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Imagine a game that you play in complete silence. Yeah, this is that game. The Mind Card Game makes a fabulous gift for 13-year-old girls because they are so in sync with each other that they are bound to rock this game. This award-winning game is quick to learn, fun to play, and tough to win.

If you want a board game that your teen girl can play with her friends or her family, then this is it. It’s less of a game and more of an experience unlike any other. You have to try it.

Himalayan Salt Lamp with Dimmer Switch

Lake Industries Rakaposhi Natural Himalayan Salt Rock Lamp w/ 6' UL Listed Dimmer Switch - 9+ lbs
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Bohemian style is all the rage…again. This Himalayan Salt Lamp with Dimmer Switch is the perfect addition to your teen girl’s bedroom. It’s extremely affordable and comes in three size options. The dimmer switch means that this can be used as a nightlight or a warmly glowing lamp or anywhere in between. With air-purifying properties and purported health benefits like less congestion, better sleep, and clearer skin, this lamp is a fabulously healthy and on-trend gift. 

The Connecticut Home Company Shag with Sherpa Reversible

The Connecticut Home Company Throw Blanket, Soft Plush Reversible Faux Fur and Sherpa, Warm Thick Throws for Bed, Comfy Washable Bedding Accent Blankets for Sofa Couch Chair,65x50, Ivory
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Girls love snuggling up on the couch with a bowl of popcorn and a Sherpa Reversible blanket. Find her favorite vibrant color and size so she can snuggle with faux fur in bed or in the den with the coziest and softest blanket on the market. Don’t worry about shedding, the blanket may have fur, but it doesn’t shed and washes like a dream in the machine.

Melissa & Doug Giant Stuffed Sea Turtle

Melissa & Doug Giant Sea Turtle - Lifelike Stuffed Animal
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Not only is the Melissa & Doug Giant Stuffed Sea Turtle absolutely adorable, but it’s the perfect gift for a VSCO girl. The Hydroflask above is on the list because girls want them to avoid plastic straws and bottles that can harm turtles. This toy offers a constant, cuddly reminder of their eco-conscious mission and works as a great pillow too.

MAKEMECHIC Tie Dye Crop Top Hoodies

If you were born in the 80s, cropped hoodies make perfect sense to you and now your daughter wants one too. The MAKEMECHIC Women’s Long Sleeve Tie Dye Print Sweatshirt is all the rage with soft fabric, long-sleeves, and a drawstring hoodie. Add in the pale tie-dye and the cropped waist for the perfect style and comfort for this generation.

Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe

adidas Performance Women's Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe, Black/Black/White, 8 M US
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Even though your daughter probably isn’t wearing these shoes to go to the gym, the adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe is perfect for running around in. These brand-name shoes come in 13 different colors, from pink to aqua to neutral gray. They’re stretchy and comfortable so they can last all day and (hopefully) all school year as her feet grow.

Phone XR Case Aura Holographic

FELONY CASE - Neon Pink Case for iPhone XR - Flexible Protective iPhone XR Case - Bright Neon Pink iPhone Case
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Get your daughter the Phone XR Case Aura Holographic case for her iPhone XR because it’s fairly plain, which means she can decorate to suit with stickers galore. Why at 13 teens are still obsessed with stickers makes no sense but they love to personalize their belongs and this case offers an affordable option.

Even if she doesn’t want to decorate, the holographic case appeals to teens’ love of blurred color and abstract art. It also protects her phone from drops with protective TPU and Polycarbonate material which is still thin enough to fit in her pocket.

Gifts for Similar Ages

Milestones for 13-Year-Old Girls 

Teenagers have so much going on as their brains and their bodies grow. They are starting to look and sound like adults but with a lot more attitude. You may not remember, but transitioning from a child to an adult takes a lot of mental energy and your teen has her mind full with several milestones.

Cognitive Milestones

Thankfully, the good news about the 13th year is that girls gain more logic and can solve problems with multiple variables. She sees the world around herself a little more clearly too and finds justice and inequality unacceptable. Expect tons of righteous indignation and anger of the unfairness of life for herself and those she feels she needs to protect. 

Emotional Milestones

Mood swings dictate your teen’s life right now as she battles increased workload at school and at home along with hormones. She wants her independence and privacy. Let her make some decisions but guide her because her brain will still grow for at least 10 more years.

Social Milestones 

Your daughter is seeking the approval of her peers and arguing with you constantly questioning your authority. It’s not to be a brat but to gain independence and is a normal stage for kids. However, don’t allow her to walk all over you just because her behavior is normal and you are currently incapable of doing anything right so keep your authority.

Physical Milestones

From moodiness to sensitivity, and self-consciousness, teens are battling hormones and growing like weeds. Beyond that, they are growing curves which causes a lot of their anxieties as they learn to accept the new them and deal with the opinions of their peers and own perceptions of beauty and body image. Watch for signs of eating disorders and truthfully compliment 13-year-old girls often. 

FAQs about the Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls

What should I write on my 13-year-old’s birthday card?

Happy Birthday. (Okay, so that’s a cop-out) Make it personal and not too flowery or overstated. Not that it can’t be flowery, but if that’s not the way you two communicate it needn’t be. Tell her what makes you proud of her/ what you like about her. Describe some way in which you have seen new growth and maturity this year.

Tell her how happy you were when she was born/came and how happy she makes you still. 

If you can employ an inside joke, do it, but not if she’s the butt of the joke. Wish her joy and excitement in the coming year. Tell her that you pray for her, for God’s blessing, and for His hand at work in her life.

And do it faithfully. If you can draw, draw something cute that has meaning for her. Then, if you haven’t already, be sure to say Happy Birthday.’ and to remind her that you love her.

How can I make my 13-year-old girl’s birthday special?

If it’s a school day, surprise your child at school with his or her favorite takeout for lunch, decorated locker, or decorated car if applicable (check the school for restrictions).

Alternatively, you might decorate your front door, mailbox, or yard. It’s always fun if you can recognize him (without embarrassing him) in some way that will be seen by friends and teachers. Surprise her with an unexpected birthday guest (maybe a favorite friend or family member she doesn’t often get to see) when she returns from school.

If the time is right, give your child a carefully chosen pet (or allow him or her to help you make that careful choice). Give an experience that he or she has long wanted (ball game, theme park, makeover, broadway play, concert, etc.,) or would love, but hasn’t yet even imagined. Dad, if your daughter has never received flowers, perhaps you could be the first to give (or if one of you is away, send) flowers. Be sure to take a few special birthday photos. Most kids will appreciate it. If yours doesn’t, you will.

What can I do instead of throwing a birthday party for my 13-year-old girl?

Invite one to three friends for a sleepover, cookout, art or cooking class, or dinner and a movie. Or invite them to cook: homemade ice cream, maybe, or pizza and birthday cake (let them decide what kind). Or keep it in the family (immediate or extended): hike, ski, go bicycling, or see a point of interest that would be of particular interest to your daughter.

Go shopping together for something she’s been wanting; take her for a weekend with an older sibling at college; or give her a horseback ride or flight lesson. It could be as easy as her favorite takeout and movie at home. You could give her a photoshoot (but keep it on the light side – not too much glamour).

If you don’t have money for a professional shoot, family members could each take 20 minutes with her and see who can craft the best shots (you’d be surprised what you can turn out.) You could even paint her bedroom together. You know your thirteen-year-old. Think about who she is and what she likes, and then get creative.

What are other good birthday gifts for 13-year-old girls?

It’s easy. Phones, phone cases, phone chargers. iPads, or iPad covers. Video gaming systems and games, gaming rocker or beanbag chair, Netflix or Spotify, earbuds, headphones, gift cards, money. But there are also sentimental gifts like anything handwritten or something made (e.g. blanket or Etsy gift). That’s the long and short of it. That may not be what you want to give, however (many of these items demand parental control and monitoring, especially for tweens)

Other options: jewelry (girls) new bicycle, skateboard, violin, band instrument or new mouthpiece, electronic drum, tongue drum, cajon box, music stand, guitar, mandolin, ukelele, synthesizer or midi keyboard/controller (ask them), Adobe Indesign or another such tool, Adobe Photoshop, language tutorial software or subscription, music tutorial software or subscription, music or art lessons, a gift certificate to Shutterfly, so they can make (for free) and afford to buy (their own) photo books, board games, outdoor games like frisbee, corn hole or spike ball, tickets to a sports event, theater, or concert.

How do I bond with my 13-year-old daughter?

Scheduled time. Mom, girl time is good: shopping (you don’t have to spend much to enjoy it – go to a nearby thrift store and see who can get the best find), baking, ice cream, crafting if your daughter likes crafting, hiking, or passing a softball or frisbee if she’s more active. If you can splurge, spend a night in a hotel, just the two of you, get dinner, and watch a favorite show or movie.

Dad, dinner or ice cream date once a week (or even every month, if that’s the best you can do) would be great. Probably she’d even get up for breakfast if she could have that time with you (and, if not, the chocolate chip pancakes ought to do it.) If you can’t do the regular date, schedule a weekend getaway now and then.

How do you make a party for 13-year-old girls fun?

Simple: friends and food. For the best kind of fun, involve them in the doing. Plan an activity; not just hanging out, especially if it’s a mixed crowd. A cookout is good, or even a cook-in (let them build the fire and cook).

Or, you can cook and have them play games. Yes, kids love video gaming, but they can also have great fun with boxed games like The Mind Game, Catan, Heads Up, Taboo, Pictionary, Code Names, Decrypto, Balderdash, or my personal favorite, One Night Werewolf.

settlers of catan game

There are many party games, too, that can be played with little or nothing other than participants. Or what about an impromptu, no props, talent show? If you have outdoor space, send them outside to play running games (capture the flag, kick the can); it’s just as much fun for teens as it is for kids. Add two paint cans and a rope for a tug of war (each player stands on a can and the one who falls off first loses), several hula-hoops, bocce ball or corn hole, and a jump rope. They’ll love it.

Final Thoughts About the Best Gifts for 13-Year-Old Girls 

Like most of us on a budget, you probably cannot pick every option on this list. The gift you choose will depend on the occasion and the girl, but here are our top suggestions:

Both of these are sure to please most 13-year-old girls across the board. If she already has one or both of these, then hit the list and find another gift idea. Or better yet, ask. You’ll never know if she’d prefer the fun and crafty DIY Lip Balm Kit over the instant-selfie machine that is the Fujifilm Instax Camera until you ask.

Sources

  1. Teen Development: MedlinePlus, medlineplus.gov
  2. Cognitive Development in Adolescence, www.stanfordchildrens.org
  3. The Teen Brain: 7 Things to Know, www.nimh.nih.gov
  4. Developmental Milestones for 12-14 Year Olds, www.childrensneuropsych.com
  5. Eating disorders…, www.mayoclinic.org

Donna Fogarty

I'm a mom of three boys and enjoy researching just about everything, especially when it comes to picking the best anything to buy for my babies.