Easter is just around the corner, and so is the sugar surplus that goes with it. Unfortunately, baskets filled with chocolate bunnies and endless jelly beans aren’t always the healthiest options.

If you want to avoid a sugar surplus this Easter, try substituting sugar with plenty of non-candy treats in your kids’ Easter baskets. These creative ideas will not only help you avoid the annual sugar rush (and crash), but will provide experiences that keep on giving well beyond the holiday.

40 Candy-Free Easter Basket Ideas

  • BubblesBooksPlay doughFun Easter sunglassesStuffed AnimalsPortable UmbrellaGardening Tools and SeedsSidewalk ChalkStickersTemporary tattoosArt supplies (crayons, markers, paints)Hair bows and accessoriesPuzzlesLegosPlaying cards (or educational ones like our Wild Cards)Matchbox carsTickets to a movie, sporting event, etc.Magazine (or magazine subscription)Gift cardsDVDs or CDsJewelryMoney (great for stuffing inside hollow Easter eggs)Bath toysFlashlightActivity or coloring booksA membership to a zoo, museum, or local attractionsNail polishJump ropeHealthy treats such as snack sized bags of crackers or granola barsBeach toysBoard gamesClothes/socksDollMagnifying glassLip gloss/Chapstick™Slinky™Squirt gunsEaster-themed rubber stamps and ink padStationary and a book of postage stampsToothbrush and toothpaste

Combine the above ideas with a few pieces of candy or healthy treats if you can’t get away with zero sweets in the baskets.

Go For Themes

Another great idea for Easter baskets is to create them around an activity or theme. Try making a garden-themed basket and fill it with child-size garden gloves, seeds, small garden tools, a watering can, and other garden-related items. This encourages your little ones to help out in the garden, which can become a teaching moment.

Or how about a camping themed basket filled with flashlights, binoculars, camping gear such as silverware/dishware, guide books, and whistles. Other themed ideas kids might like are a sports basket, movie night basket, baking/cooking basket, or sewing/knitting basket —  the possibilities are endless.

Don’t forget the grown-ups on your list this Easter. How about a coffee, tea, or wine-themed basket? Or create an Easter basket for the pets, filled with treats, toys, a new leash, and blankets.

These baskets may be just as much fun to fill as they are to empty!

Why is Easter so late this year?

Natalie LaVolpe is a freelance writer and former special education teacher. She is dedicated to healthy living through body and mind. She currently resides on Long Island, New York, with her husband, children, and dog.

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