Male 18th Birthday Gifts
When a boy turns 18, he's said to become a man. The biblical passage from Corinthians 13:11 says, "When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me." So, eschew childish gifts for his 18th birthday, and get him something apropos to his new stage of life.
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Suit and Tie
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He's a grown-up now, and it's time to play with the big boys. That means big-boy clothes. He'll be going on job or college interviews and attending weddings, and probably a few funerals and he'll need the proper attire. Gift him with a classy suit, tie, a few nice shirts and even some dress shoes. Add some cuff links to round it all out.
Car
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Eighteen years old means independence, and nothing says independence like an automobile. Chances are he'll need one for college or a job, depending on which route he takes. That doesn't mean he should have the hottest sports car or even a new car. Search for a sensible used vehicle. It should be safe and get good gas mileage, especially now that he'll be paying for his own fuel. You can also offer to pay for the first few months of insurance.
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Outdoor/Sporting Equipment
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It may be time to put childish things behind him, but outdoor adventuring and sports are just as much for adults; plus, they're healthy. Tailor the gift toward his interests, such as camping or hiking equipment, fishing gear, hunting gear, climbing gear, a mountain bike, sailing equipment, a kayak or a canoe. If he enjoys more mainstream sports, a baseball glove, basketball shoes or hockey gear will be appreciated.
Shaver/Grooming Supplies
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As teens grow older, they become more self-conscious about their appearance. He'll want to look good, not just for the girls but for those job and college interviews as well. Get him a top-of-the-line shaver and aftershave lotion. Add some body wash, cologne and deodorant, and put it all in a toiletry kit bag.
Trip Abroad
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He's 18 and ready for real life experiences. Gift him with a trip abroad, and let him learn from the school of life. Plan the trip together, and lay out the itinerary. It could be backpacking through Europe or a tour of Italy's historic locations. Perhaps you want to introduce him to his heritage with a trip to Ireland, France or Israel. Provide the plane tickets, hotel costs and some spending money. You can go with him or arrange for relatives to meet him "across the pond." Include a digital camera so that he can record all his adventures.
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References
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