Teens rock to the beat

`Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring... But it will be a different story the next morning, when little Johnny rocks the joint with his new Guitar Hero set.

The interactive games – where players attempt to match notes with original rock music for points – is huge with teens this season.

EA Games is offering various kits – including the new Rock Band 2 (with guitar, microphone, drums and software) for $189. A deluxe version of the original Guitar Hero from Activision is selling for $209.

For non-musical teens, digital cameras are a sure-fire hit. Just check out Youtube and Facebook for proof. There are many excellent point-and-shoot cameras starting at about $150, but for more serious photographers, you should consider moving up to an SLR, such as the Canon EOS Rebel XS. It's now selling for a bit over $500.

For a low-tech option, board games are popular. Eigil 310 is a strategy game where your goal is to run your opponent out of cards. Or try the party game: If You Had To Choose..., which asks thought-provoking questions about priorities and values. Both sell for $35.