Plus, the case for Easter anti-baskets.
It’s not that I’m against candy. It’s just that I’m against entire baskets of candy that my kids will never eat. Out of my three boys, I have one who doesn’t like sweets, one who’s diabetic, and one who does like candy but will always choose to eat a cookie or ice cream instead. So guess who ends up eating 76 mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups? This mom. If you face a similar situation in your home, let me suggest these 12 Easter gift ideas that aren’t candy.
Rethink The Basket
I’m a huge fan of swapping out traditional Easter baskets for something more useful. In years past, I’ve used hats, make-up bags, belt bags, beach pails, and more as alternatives to overpriced baskets my kids will never use again. If you’re a new parent, I highly recommend treating your child’s Easter basket like a stocking — set out the same one each year for the Easter Bunny to fill. For the rest of us, buy your kid a hat of his favorite sports team, turn it upside down, and fill it with Easter grass. You’re welcome.
Ditch The Bunny Theme
Two of my three kids are Jewish, so our Easter celebrations are decidedly secular. I don’t limit my shopping to Easter-themed toys. Plus, if you’re a blended family like mine, it’s likely your kids will get multiple baskets (like the year Levon received FIVE), so it’s important to shop outside the Easter aisles to avoid duplicates. In the past, I’ve gifted sunglasses, t-shirts, jewelry, books, action figures, and art supplies, all of which were loved and didn’t make me gain weight. Of course I always throw in a bit of candy, but I don’t make it the main attraction. One bag of pastel M&Ms will do.
As for the candy your kids will receive from their grandparents, I highly recommend using it to make these. In the meantime, let’s get shopping:
