50+ Non-Candy Ideas for Easter Baskets for Busy Moms
Hey there! It’s hard to believe Easter is almost here. Even though it feels like the work that comes with Valentine’s Day for us food allergy moms has barely passed us, Easter eggs and baskets lurk ahead.
I’ve got you covered! It’s time to do what us food allergy mamas do best- plan ahead.
As if every other major holiday isn’t already filled with candy and allergens that may leave our children with food allergies feeling left out. These non-candy ideas for Easter baskets will not leave any child disappointed.
Here I’ll share my top non-candy ideas for Easter basket fillers that are not only delightful, but also allergy-friendly and safe for your kiddo with food allergies.
Embracing Allergy Awareness
Before we start curating the perfect Easter basket, let’s talk about why food allergy awareness is a game-changer during these celebrations. Every child deserves an egg-citing (sorry, I couldn’t resist!) holiday without the worry of allergens. These simple swaps will be a safe alternative to traditional Easter candy and will still bring lots of fun and excitement this spring without the concerns that come with candy or other sweets.
High-Fives to Food Allergy Moms
I know you’ve got your hands full, navigating the day in and day out of food allergies, all while orchestrating the magic of the holiday seasons. The mental decision fatigue that comes with having a child with food allergies is a lot. I’m hoping this list will put a bit of magic and ease into your Easter planning.
Why Are Using Non-Candy Ideas for Easter Baskets Important?
Now that we’ve set the stage for an epic, allergy-friendly Easter morning, let’s talk about why ditching the candy and opting for non-candy Easter basket ideas is a game-changer.
Great Non-Food Options for Kids with Food Allergies: Nothing broke my heart more, when my 5 year old looked at me, pulled a holiday snack from his stocking on Christmas morning and asked me with equal mix of hope and excitement, “Mom, can you check the label? Did Santa bring me something safe to eat?”
Of course Santa did, I told him.
Our kids have been conditioned from day one to trust US and ONLY US, as their mama, whole-heartedly, with keeping their little bodies safe from foods.
Filling their basket with only non-candy options helps take out the question that comes with something they think they may or may not be able eat in their Easter basket.
Generally a Healthier Option for All Kids: Let’s face it; we all want the best for our little ones. Non-candy treats not only skip the sugar overload but also open the door to a world of healthier alternatives. From engaging toys that spark creativity to educational puzzles that stimulate young minds, these non-candy treats make the shift away from the focus being on sweets..
Creating a More Inclusive Environment for All Kids: Easter is all about unity, joy, and making every child feel special. By opting for non-candy treats, we’re not just accommodating allergies; we’re creating a space where every child, regardless of dietary restrictions, can participate fully. It’s a small yet impactful step towards fostering a sense of belonging, normalizing holidays don’t have to center around food and turning Easter into a shared adventure for everyone.
So, as you curate those magical Easter baskets, remember that the choice of non-candy treasures isn’t just a thoughtful decision – it’s a powerful move towards making this holiday season an inclusive, health-conscious, and joyful experience for every child.
Egg-straordinary Non-Candy Easter Basket Ideas for Every Little Explorer
So, grab a cup of coffee, take a moment for yourself, and let’s get to our list of top non-candy Easter Basket ideas that may work for your family’s Easter baskets!
Some of these ideas you may even be able to repurpose and fit into plastic eggs for your Easter egg hunt!
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1. Stickers featuring favorite characters- I even found cute oversized stickers perfect for toddlers
2. Miniature action figures or toys
4. Crayons or colored pencils or fun Switcheroo color changing markers
5. Small puzzles- check out your local dollar store for inexpensive puzzles
6. Temporary tattoos
7. Silly Bunny themed erasers– fun option as an Easter egg filler as well!
8. Bubbles or bubble machine
9. NEW Egg-shaped Playdoh– everyone loves fresh playdoh! Party favor sized fits great into plastic eggs!
10. Rubber duckies
11. Decorative hair accessories
12. Small stuffed animals
13. Seed packets for planting flowers or herbs
14. Miniature board games
15. Customizable coupons for special activities
16. Sidewalk chalk
17. Glow sticks or glow-in-the-dark toys
18. Yoto cards or Tonies– we love how easy our Yoto audio player is to travel with!
20. Miniature notebooks or journals
21. Scented markers or stamps
22. Matchbox cars or monster trucks- great to fit into those slightly larger plastic eggs!
23. Jump ropes
24. Craft supplies like beads, feathers, and pipe cleaners
25. Educational flashcards- look at Target in the dollar spot section or at your local dollar store
26. Kid-friendly nail polish or lip balm
28. Small books or picture books
29. Whistles or kazoos
30. Building blocks or LEGO sets made especially for Easter!
31. Yo-yos
32. Water balloons
33. Play jewelry or accessories
34. Small containers of modeling clay
35. Stuffed Easter-themed animals
36. Water Wow! Books from Melissa & Doug– great for the car or other travel!
37. Pencil toppers or pencil case
38. Magnifying glasses for outdoor exploration
39. Character-themed keychains
40. Bubble bath (this one has been great for our sensitive skin!) or bath toys
41. Small sports equipment (mini basketball, soccer ball)
42. Character-themed notepads
43. Small flashlights, headlamp or booklight- great for fort-building or nighttime reading!
44. Mini umbrellas or rubber boots for spring puddles and garden planting
45. Pokemon trading cards
46. Decorative magnets- check out Melissa & Doug for fun letters, numbers and animal shapes!
47. Character toothbrush or toothpaste!
48. Character-themed water bottles
49. Sunglasses or new ball cap for extra sun protection- sunscreen is a useful option too!
50. Glow-in-the-dark stars for room decor
Conclusion
There you have it– a curated collection of my favorite non-candy ideas for Easter baskets that promise an egg-stra special celebration!
Eliminating the candy (and stress) from Easter baskets can be an advantage this upcoming holiday for you. Without adding the worry of hidden allergens, baskets can be fillwed with plenty of fun options for your kiddos of all ages.
What works for your family? I would love to hear from you what you use for non-candy Easter basket ideas. Feel free to send me an email or drop a comment below!
From my family to yours, hope you have an Easter filled with safe treats, fun and special memories!
And if you’re looking for more food allergy support, perhaps check out my go-to list of top 8 allergen free snacks!
Meet the author
Welcome! I’m Stephanie!
Stephanie Joyce, MS, RDN, LD, SNS, a registered dietitian and mom of two, has been in the child nutrition field for 15 years. After working for the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and raising her son with multiple food allergies, she now focuses on helping families of young kids who have food allergies learn how to live and eat well.
