Building Creative Easter Baskets for Kids

04.03.2017 | 3 min read

Collectively, Americans spend more than two billion dollars on Easter candy every year. When it comes to filling baskets, traditional treats can lead to the overconsumption of more than twice the daily recommended sugar intake in one sitting. The recommendation for school-aged children is to limit consumption of added sugar to four teaspoons per day.

To keep things healthy and fun this Easter, take the opportunity to ignite a child’s passion by filling his or her basket with items based on interests and personality.

Take it a step further by mixing and matching themes to encourage the exploration of new activities.

The Creative Child

Performers: For a child who spends their time dancing, singing or acting out the scenes of their favorite movie, some great basket-fillers include: a music subscription, a microphone set, dress-up accessories or tickets to a musical. Participating in performance arts has been shown to improve physical development, emotional maturity and cognitive development in children.

Artists: Encouraging kids to experiment with arts and crafts can improve motor skills, language development and visual learning. To help them create mini masterpieces, parents could include: chalk, crayons, markers, paint, googly eyes, glue, tissue paper, glitter, construction paper, poster boards, craft kits and/or an easel to work on.

Mini Chefs: A child who loves spending time in the kitchen is likely to develop great listening skills, better eating habits and an early understanding of basic math and science. Check out the cooking aisle of any craft or convenience store to fill a basket with culinary supplies such as an apron, personalized cooking tools, a chef’s hat, cook books or baking kits. You could even use a pot or colander as the “basket” for the supplies.

The Thinker

Games: Those who tend to be on the quiet or shy side are often great listeners, very observant and self-aware. A thoughtful child may enjoy brain-teasers such as: Sudoku, crossword puzzles, a Rubik’s cube or color-by-number books. Board games can initiate a more social experience with family and friends through conversation, friendly competition and/or team work.

Books: Encouraging literacy at a young age helps children explore a broader vocabulary, demonstrate better communication skills and provides an outlet for creative imagination. Print and audio books, puppets and even a magic kit could be great basket-fillers for a child who loves to read.

Movie Theme: Children can benefit from moderate screen time. Movies provide an opportunity to expose children to historic events and different cultures, while also initiating conversations about morals and life lessons. Fill a movie-lover’s basket with: Popcorn, movies, dress-up props, a disposable camera,and a notebook with colorful pens to write their own script.

The Energetic Child

Sports Theme: It comes as no surprise that a child who loves sports may appreciate tickets to a sporting event and sporting equipment in their basket. Getting involved in athletics can improve social skills, boost self-confidence and endorse teamwork at a young age.

Get Creative: If a child doesn’t prefer athletics, finding an outlet for their energy may be more challenging. Consider items like glow sticks for a basement dance party, active video games or items that can be used to set up a scavenger hunt throughout the house.

Traditional Fun: Jump rope, Frisbees, hula hoops and other traditional toys are great go-to basket fillers for children to shed some energy and play inside and outside the house.