Fun

Uggs, not Crocs. Hannah Montana, not Cheetah Girls. With teens’ tastes changing dramatically from year to year, it can be hard for parents to know what presents are “in.” And if you pick something that’s “out,” you won’t hear the end of it until next Christmas.

We asked members of Angle, sixth- through 12th-graders who make up the Journal-World’s teen advisory board, to clue us in about what teens want – and don’t want – for Christmas.

Winter wear was a popular suggestion, especially from girls. They said knit hats, scarves, peacoats and fuzzy boots – such as Uggs – would be welcome gifts. For winter coats, they said those from the brand North Face are in this year.

Crocs, the ubiquitous holey clogs, were deemed “so last year.” Animal print also is out, Angle members said.

As for clothing basics, crazy socks – ones that are colorful or have fun prints – are recommended. But the plain, boring, reinforced-toe types – especially tube socks – will elicit a groan. The girls also said no to underwear, but the boys said boxer shorts would be OK.

Pretty much anything electronic would make a good gift, according to our panel: digital cameras, laptop computers, gaming systems like the Nintendo Wii and a plasma TV to play it on. IPod MP3 players are as popular as ever, along with iTunes to rock out to and headphones or earphones to listen to the iTunes.

DVDs and CDs also would be appreciated, the group said. The movie “Hairspray” was one suggestion, and music from “American Idol” winner Carrie Underwood was another. However, Christmas carol CDs, particularly those by celebrities, are not cool. And for junior high school students, Hannah Montana is all the rage, but they’re totally over fellow Disney stars the Cheetah Girls.

Other recommendations included sports equipment and books – Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series was one suggestion. Many girls said they’d like a Chi flat iron for straightening their hair.If you’re looking for stocking stuffers, just say no to Santa knickknacks – our panel did. They also don’t appreciate fruit, vegetables or toothbrushes. Teens just want candy.

Angle members said they wouldn’t mind gift certificates to just about any place in town. When in doubt, go with the present that’s evergreen: money.

High school students said they’d be glad to get a car. But Angle members said harming the environment is most definitely out, so instead of a gas-guzzling SUV, how about a hybrid or energy-efficient compact car?

Not likely? Well, it is a wish list, after all.