As Easter approaches, many of us begin to think about what treats to fill our Easter eggs with. While candy is a traditional choice, it’s not the only option, especially for parents who want to offer a healthier or more meaningful alternative. But what can you put in Easter eggs instead of candy? In this article, we’ll explore a variety of creative and fun ideas that are sure to delight kids of all ages.
The Benefits of Non-Candy Easter Eggs
Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s talk about why you might want to consider alternatives to candy-filled Easter eggs. Here are a few benefits:
- Healthier options: Candy is high in sugar and calories, making it a less-than-ideal choice for kids (and adults!) who are watching their weight or managing health conditions. Non-candy options can be a healthier and more balanced choice.
- More meaningful experiences: Easter eggs can be a fun way to create lasting memories with your kids. By filling them with small toys, activities, or other treats, you can encourage imagination, creativity, and bonding.
- Increased excitement: Let’s face it: kids can get bored with the same old candy-filled eggs year after year. Mixing things up with new and unexpected treats can add an element of surprise and excitement to the Easter egg hunt.
Small Toys and Trinkets
One of the most popular alternatives to candy is small toys or trinkets. Here are a few ideas:
- Mini figurines: Consider filling eggs with small figurines of your child’s favorite characters, such as superheroes, animals, or princesses.
- Small stuffed animals: Tiny stuffed animals can be a adorable and cuddly addition to Easter eggs.
- Playdough: Homemade or store-bought playdough can be a fun and creative activity for kids to enjoy.
- Puzzles and games: Fill eggs with small puzzles, decks of cards, or other travel-sized games for kids to enjoy on-the-go.
DIY Toys and Trinkets
If you’re feeling crafty, consider making your own DIY toys and trinkets to fill Easter eggs. Here are a few ideas:
- Finger puppets: Create simple finger puppets using felt, glue, and other crafting supplies.
- Homemade playdough jewelry: Make your own playdough jewelry pieces, such as beads or pendants, to fill eggs.
- Paper flowers: Create delicate paper flowers or other paper crafts to add a touch of elegance to Easter eggs.
Activities and Experiences
Instead of filling eggs with physical items, consider offering experiences or activities that kids can enjoy. Here are a few ideas:
- Scavenger hunt clues: Fill eggs with clues or riddles that lead kids on a scavenger hunt around the house or backyard.
- Coupon book: Create a coupon book filled with fun activities or rewards, such as “one free hug,” “one extra story at bedtime,” or “help with a favorite craft project.”
- Outdoor activities: Fill eggs with ideas for outdoor activities, such as “go on a nature walk,” “play a game of tag,” or “have a backyard picnic.”
Create a Customized Coupon Book
To create a customized coupon book, follow these steps:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Determine the number of coupons you want to include in the book. Consider your child’s interests and what activities they enjoy. |
| 2 | Choose a design or theme for the coupon book. You can use stickers, stamps, or other crafting supplies to add visual interest. |
| 3 | Write out each coupon on a separate piece of paper or card. Be specific and detailed in your descriptions. |
| 4 | Assemble the coupon book by binding the pages together with glue, staples, or a binder. |
Healthy Snacks
If you still want to include a treat in your Easter eggs, consider healthy snack options. Here are a few ideas:
- Dried fruit: Dried fruit, such as apricots, cranberries, or raisins, is a healthy and sweet option.
- Nuts and seeds: Fill eggs with nuts and seeds, such as almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds, for a crunchy snack.
- Granola or energy bars: Look for healthy granola or energy bars made with wholesome ingredients to fill eggs.
- Fresh fruit: If you live in a warm climate, consider filling eggs with fresh fruit, such as grapes, berries, or sliced apples.
Make Your Own Trail Mix
Trail mix is a healthy and easy snack to make at home. Here’s a simple recipe:
- 1 cup mixed nuts (such as almonds, cashews, and pecans)
- 1 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries, raisins, and apricots)
- 1/2 cup seeds (such as sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- Salt to taste
Other Creative Ideas
Finally, here are a few more creative ideas to fill Easter eggs:
- Art supplies: Fill eggs with art supplies, such as crayons, markers, or paint, for a fun and creative activity.
- Stickers and tattoos: Fill eggs with stickers, temporary tattoos, or other fun adhesives for kids to enjoy.
- Seeds or plant starters: Fill eggs with seeds or small plant starters, such as succulents or herbs, for kids to plant and watch grow.
By thinking outside the box (or egg!), you can create a fun and memorable Easter experience for your kids. Whether you choose small toys, activities, or healthy snacks, the most important thing is to have fun and make the holiday special for your family.
What kind of small toys can I put in Easter eggs?
You can put a variety of small toys in Easter eggs, depending on the age and interests of the children. Some ideas include tiny trinkets, stickers, temporary tattoos, small figurines, or mini puzzles. You can also consider small toys that match the Easter theme, such as tiny bunnies, eggs, or chicks.
Remember to choose toys that are safe and age-appropriate for the children. Avoid small pieces that can be a choking hazard for younger children, and opt for toys that are durable and can withstand being handled and played with multiple times.
Can I put stickers or temporary tattoos in Easter eggs?
Yes, stickers and temporary tattoos can be a great alternative to candy in Easter eggs! Children love decorating themselves and their belongings with stickers and temporary tattoos, and they can add an extra layer of fun to the Easter egg hunt. You can find stickers and temporary tattoos in a variety of themes, including Easter-themed designs.
When choosing stickers and temporary tattoos, make sure to select ones that are safe and non-toxic. You can also consider including a few sheets of stickers or a set of temporary tattoos in each egg to make it feel like a special treat.
What about small books or activity cards?
Small books or activity cards can be a wonderful alternative to candy in Easter eggs. They provide a fun and engaging activity for children to enjoy, and they can be tailored to their age and interests. You can find small books and activity cards that feature popular characters, puzzles, mazes, or coloring activities.
When choosing small books or activity cards, consider the age and reading level of the children. You can also include a few activity cards or a small bookmark in each egg to add an extra surprise.
Can I put small notepad and pencil in Easter eggs?
Yes, a small notepad and pencil can be a thoughtful and creative alternative to candy in Easter eggs. Children can use the notepad and pencil to write notes, draw pictures, or create their own stories. This can be a great way to encourage creativity and imagination.
When choosing a small notepad and pencil, consider the age and writing level of the children. You can opt for a small notepad with a fun design or a special Easter theme, and pair it with a colorful pencil or crayon.
What about glow sticks or small flashlights?
Glow sticks or small flashlights can be a fun and exciting alternative to candy in Easter eggs. They provide a unique and interactive experience for children, and can add an extra level of excitement to the Easter egg hunt. You can find glow sticks or small flashlights in a variety of colors and designs.
When choosing glow sticks or small flashlights, make sure to select ones that are safe and age-appropriate for the children. You can also consider including a few glow sticks or small flashlights in each egg to create a special surprise.
Can I put small craft supplies in Easter eggs?
Yes, small craft supplies can be a great alternative to candy in Easter eggs. Children love creating and making things, and small craft supplies can provide a fun and engaging activity. You can include supplies such as pipe cleaners, beads, stickers, or small pieces of fabric.
When choosing small craft supplies, consider the age and skill level of the children. You can opt for simple supplies that are easy to use, or more complex supplies that require a bit more skill and creativity.
What about small packages of playdough?
Small packages of playdough can be a wonderful alternative to candy in Easter eggs. Children love playing with playdough and creating their own shapes and designs. You can find playdough in a variety of colors and textures, and can even add a few small toys or shapes to create a fun surprise.
When choosing small packages of playdough, consider the age and individual needs of the children. You can opt for gluten-free or allergy-friendly playdough options, and can also include a few small tools or rollers to add an extra layer of fun.