When Easter falls, I can’t help but feel a bit overwhelmed. I mean, we live in a world that bounces from one Hallmark holiday to the next. As the ball is dropping on New Year’s Eve stores are stocking their shelves with Valentine’s goodies, and immediately after which we’re bombarded with all things Easter. If you’re anything like me, you are so immersed in the daily rigors of life that you push all thoughts of putting Easter baskets together out of your mind until you’re reminded you need to bring 20 eggs to preschool for the Easter egg hunt that week. Oops! The denial can no longer continue: better get on the Easter train cause it will soon be leaving the station. I then, of course, find myself scrambling to re-invent the wheel when it comes to filling baskets, with new, unique treats. Yet, the truth is, my children are always most enamored with the simple, unfussy gifts, and usually fail to notice the things I’m most excited about- not to mention, have put the most effort into. So this year, I’m resolving to keep the Easter baskets easy and fun- no stress allowed!

If you are looking for Easter basket ideas and would like to keep things simple, springy, and budget-friendly, below are some suggestions we put together to help you get started. And remember- quality versus quantity is completely okay!

Babies

  • Board Books – This one is especially sweet!
  • Bunny or Puppy TOMS – I’ll admit, these are a total splurge, but oh so adorable.
  • Rattles – Spearmint Baby makes so many. We love this specific one because it makes a nostalgic chime rather than the traditional shake and it comes in 3 different colors.
  • Teether- I’m sure you can find cute eco-friendly options in lambs or chicks, but this one is once again our top pick for Easter.
  • Peter Rabbit Organic Food Pouches – These are great for littles and just right for keeping with the Easter theme.

Preschool

  • Bubbles – Hobby Lobby has the best carrot shaped and sized bubbles! They are super bubbly and are always a winner!
  • Chalk – You can find sidewalk chalk in the shape of eggs at many places, including the Dollar Store.
  • Storybooks – Some of our favorites for Easter are The Littlest Bunny in Texas, The Runaway Bunny and Happy Easter Curious George
  • Bunny Floral Headband- Let’s face it, most of us are not amused with bunny ears, but if you have a child who loves to dress up, one of these would be darling.
  • Melissa & Doug Craft Kits – No matter your child’s interest, you’re sure to find something they’ll enjoy
  • Annie’s Cheddar & Graham bunnies are a great candy alternative for this age!

Elementary

  • Gardening Tools – I love including a little activity that’s just right for spring. You can either build your own kit with a small pot, seeds and shovel or buy one pre-made. This set is especially fun because your child gets to color the container as well as plant the seeds.
  • Science Nature Walk Kit – another outdoor option for those who love to explore
  • Beatrix Potter Books – These are the perfect size for baskets. You could even make gifting a new one each Easter a tradition or invest in the treasury. If your child is obsessed with stuffed animals, you may want to give them the miniature plush character that coincides with the book.
  • Kick Ball- This bunny ball is a good excuse to get some energy out
  • Suspend Game- This Melissa & Doug game is the perfect size for an Easter basket and one the entire family will enjoy.
  • Fancy Sugar Cookies- Rather than stick with candy, why not support a local bakery like Hayleycakes or Quack’s

Tween & Up

  • Watercolor Set, Brushes & Paper- This set by Artist’s Loft is a great value.
  • Body Wash/Body Spray
  • Chapstick/Lipgloss
  • Age Appropriate Books- If you’re looking for suggestions, Brightly has a wonderful list for 2018.
  • Graphic Tees- Target has a ton of great options for everyone.
  • Gift Cards for activities around Austin- Movies, Concerts, Tacos! 

 Did you find these suggestions helpful? What other things do you put in your baskets?

2 COMMENTS

  1. Great ideas! My head always goes straight to chocolate and I am usually too busy to brainstorm other non-junk options. Thanks for putting in the work for me!

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