My son got braces today, and he was a real trooper I was so proud of him. It was no easy feat either, he had unbelievable patience, fortitude, courage and managed a cheesy smile. Now I know what you’re thinking: millions of people do this all the time…and you’d be right…but this is my little guy so I wanted to do something special for him after. We went to Modell’s and he picked out a couple cool things then we had some ice cream followed by a Motrin shooter but here are some other ideas, for boys and girls (since my daughter will soon be following).

The Practical:
A Waterpik is on every must-have list. It’s not glamorous, but it’s also not inexpensive so if you put a bow on the box, it could be a gift…especially if you package it up with some other little knick-knacks like some press-on tattoos, silly putty and a whoopee cushion (you’d be surprised how entertaining one can be).

Waterpik Ultra Water Flosser (List Price $59.99, Amazon)

Waterpik Waterflosser Ultra And Waterpik Cordless Plus Combo Pack Includes 12 Accessory Tips & Travel Case ($90.34, Amazon)

The Yummy:

Food is tricky. There’s lots they can’t eat. Ice cream is cooling, soothing and generally a do except it can’t have anything crunchy, sticky or hard so go with the classics–chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, coffee, mint (no chips). A gift card to your local Ben & Jerry, Pinkberry, 16 Handles shop or find Coldstone Creamery gift cards (among others) at a discount here.

The Accoutrement:
When you get something new, bright and shiny what do you do? Accent them! Headphones are great options, check these fun ones:

Fun Earbud Headphones: Fast Food ($12, Urban Outfitters)

Earmuff Headphones (ON SALE $14.99, Delia’s)

Urbanears Plattan Headphones ($60, Nordstrom)
Additionally, earrings can create balance and come in a variety of styles from flirty to goth.

Boutique Custom Earring Jacket and Stud Set ($4.99, Lillian Vernon)

Rose Gold Plated Stainless Steel Hoops ($41, The Black Bow)

Sparkle Owl and Stud Earring Set ($10.50, Claire’s)

Skull Stud Earrings ($9.50, Delia’s)

The Mini-Makeover:
For a girl, especially one who is feeling a bit awkward with her “new look” some nail polish or lip glosses can be a mini-makeover boost to get her mind off the new metal.

OPI Best of the Best Collection ($21.45, Amazon)

Kleancolor Retro Neon Set of 12 ($16.85, Amazon)

The Distractions:
Video games, Apps or music (like an iTunes gift card) is a great way to spend time, get their mind off any initial discomfort and is (mostly) portable.

Related Links:
Back To School Deals
Tooth Fairy Gift Ideas
Gifts That Say Congratulations
Gifts For Back to School
Summer’s Top Rated Toys Ages 0-13: August 2012

Featured imaged, The Yummy: Free image courtesy of Freedigitalimages.net.
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