Shanthi Appelö is a registered dietitian and health and wellness spokesperson for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan based in Detroit. Passionate about the science of nutrition and behavior, Shanthi has experience working in clinical nutrition, public health and teaching in the university setting. She earned her Master of Science in Public Health Nutrition from the University of Tennessee and has a research background in maternal and child health nutrition and public health, as well as a Certificate of Training in Obesity Interventions from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, exploring the outdoors, working on art and spending time with family.
Personalized Easter Basket Can Spur a Child’s Creativity, Boost Self-Reflection
3 min read

- Stress management
- Problem/conflict resolution
- Stress reduction
- Coping mechanism
- Self-exploration and reflection
- Journal. A blank book with lines on the page is helpful for journaling but consider a larger book to offer room for doodles and pictures.
- Stickers. Stickers can help channel creativity and make journaling more fun. Moreover, smiley face stickers can help younger kids express emotions about their day when they don’t have the words.
- Tapes. Colorful tapes with patterns and texture are a fun and artsy way to incorporate photos, notes and movie tickets.
- Markers and pens. A variety of colorful, metallic and glittery pens or markers can make writing more fun and creative.
- Some sweets. Easter doesn’t have to be without sweets to be healthy. Pack in a few favorite sweet treats.
- Think beyond traditional. Skip the plaid-lined Easter basket and offer a container that be repurposed for a child’s room to get more bang for your buck.
- Customize the stickers. For a sporty kid, stickers of sports balls, goals, shoes, hats and more can help them express their creativity and vent about sports. An outdoorsy kid may enjoy wildlife and plant stickers.
- Additions. Add a couple more fun things that go along with their interests such as sunglasses and a water bottle.