The Easter Bunny (definition): a human-sized animal that doesn’t speak but possesses Santa-level skills employed to deliver Easter baskets and hiding eggs.
I had a hard time buying it as a kid and I think my 7-year-old is getting to that point too. Nonetheless, he does look forward to the contents of his basket on Easter morning.
If you are like me, small trinket type items give you a touch of anxiety. When my kids receive a party favors I confiscate them almost immediately. Then I usually discard any tiny items that I know will ultimately reside between my couch cushions.
That being said, the Easter Bunny that visits our house avoids knick-knacks. That’s not to say she (he? it?) can’t make the practical stuff fun. Here are some alternatives beyond chocolate bunnies and bubbles:
Art Supplies: In our house, we can always use more pencils, erasers, crayons, and markers. There are additional craft supplies that kids love to use: pipe cleaners, pom poms, glue, stamps, stencils all fit the bill. Better yet? You can find crafting accouterments like this for cheap at a dollar store or local craft store.
Summer Gear: We rarely make it out of the summer without my kids losing at least one pair of sunglasses. Given that, they receive new pairs in their baskets and usually a new hat too. I’ve even gone as far as putting bathing suits and water shoes in their baskets. While this may go over your spending limit, if you are going to buy them these items anyway, you aren’t really spending “extra.”
Small Games/Travel Items: In prior years I’ve stuck decks of Uno and Old Maid cards in Easter baskets. They’re a great alternative to the requisite bottle of bubbles. Other travel-sized games can come in handy for those summer vacations or trips to grandma and grandpa’s house. We also love Water Wow sets made by Melissa & Doug. They’re awesome for car rides and are reusable.
Something Needed: This category is broad. Look around at things they might just really need. Could their toothbrush stand a replacement? Do they need a new thermos or water bottle? Have their socks seen better days? Making useful items personal and fun amp up the excitement level – so get that character toothbrush, a water bottle that’s their favorite color, or socks with a fun pattern.
Books: You really can’t go wrong here. There are Easter-themed books on display in stores already but you don’t have to relegate yourself to Easter. Make it more personal by getting a book with their favorite character or animal in it.
Lunchbox snacks: Want to give your children some food items in their basket while avoiding copious amounts of chocolate and Peeps? My kids get one small chocolate bunny and then what I refer to as “lunchbox snacks.” Tried and true snack favorites such as pretzels, raisins, applesauce, and granola bars in their basket guarantee you’ll have an assortment of goodies rather than a collection of confection. Because let’s face it: you still have some Halloween candy hiding in a cupboard somewhere.
Remember, kids find joy in the small things. They don’t always need a belly full of chocolate to be happy on Easter Sunday!
