Top 10 Christmas Stocking Stuffers for Tween Girls

Somewhere between childhood bliss and teenage angst lives the tween girl. This awkward phase can pose challenges for girls and the people who love them especially when it comes to gift-giving. Not quite old enough for the latest teen trends but ready to move on from Barbie dolls and teddy bears, the tween girl is a a gift-givers conundrum. This Christmas wow the young ladies in your life with fun and functional stocking stuffer gifts that respect their blossoming maturity while still embracing the young girl that is still very much part of who they are.

1. Lip balm; the ultimate tween girl must have. As with all great stocking stuffers the real trick is in the packaging. A fun flavor, like Rosebud's Salve, or cute package can take your basic lip balm from practical winter staple to super-cute accessory. Try Ballmania.com which offers lip balm inside of sports ball shaped containers that can be attached to their key ring, backpack, or purse. Be sure to check out their Twist & Pout collection which offers lots of cute designs for the girlie-girl on your list.

2. Whether she's into Miley Cyrus or Lady Gaga, every tween girl loves music. If she doesn't have an iPod already you can still purchase an iTunes card and have her burn the music she buys onto CD. Or skip the extra step and just pick up her favorite CD yourself. Just remember, music tastes change almost as quickly as friends at this age so be sure you ask before you buy.

3. Jewelry is usually a big hit with the tween girl set. Dogeared Jewelry offers "make a wish" necklaces and bracelets which tap into not only her love of accessories but also her whimsical, wishful nature. And with designs in everything from gold to leather and beads, you are sure to find something to suit your girl's personality. I'm a big fan of their "Girl Power" necklace... there's no such thing as too much self confidence!

4. Perfume or body spray is often a great gift for girls (and boys) of this age. As puberty kicks in, a little extra freshness can go a long way! Many retailers offer scents tailored to the younger set such as Sephora Girls pocket perfume in Sweet Almond. Or introduce her to a classic while reminiscing on your own early adolescence with Love's Baby Soft.

5. Cute socks are fun and practical, everything a good stocking stuffer should be. Try these fun ankle socks from PS by Aeropostale. Slippers, like these lambie ones from Bath & Body Works, are another cozy treat that is sure to be a Christmas day favorite.

6. Bookstore gift cards are a great option that parents, teachers, and girls all can appreciate. Both Barnes & Noble and Borders offer a wide variety designs featuring popular books such as Twilight and Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants or you can design your own. Consider supporting a local book store which may offer a more eclectic selection and introduce your teen to new and local authors. IndieBound.org has a store locator to help you find independent book stores in your area.

7. Magazine subscriptions also make for great gifts especially to encourage reading in kids who don't love books. With magazines ranging from American Girl and Discovery Girl to National Geographic for Kids and Amazing Spider-Girl; there is something for everyone. Amazon.com offers subscriptions if you aren't sure what to get or visit the specific magazines website for more information.

8. Table Topics are small decks of cards with questions to inspire conversation. They offer an ever-growing number of categories including Family Gatherings, Teen, and Travel decks. Great for giggling girls at slumber parties and family dinners on weeknights.

9. Project Runway is a hit with adults but their line of fashion design kits are perfect for tweens. Whether she is a budding fashion designer or just enjoys art, the fashion design sketchbook is the right size and the right price for stocking stuffing.

10. Girls love journals! Whether she uses it to hold her darkest secrets just for doodling, a journal can be a wonderful gift. Willing to splurge a little? Try one of Erin Condren's personalized spiral-bound versions.