The Easter Bunny is often associated with sticky and chewy candy that may not be the best for teeth. Even though I am a pediatric dentist, I still understand the joys of chocolate bunnies, marshmallow chicks, and jelly beans. However, there are still plenty of ways to have a fun Easter basket without sugar overload. We suggest the following ideas, which we hope you’ll find equally as delectable and charming.
- Dried fruit– Banana chips, dried pineapple slices, dried mango pieces and more are naturally sweet treats the Bunny can bring. Look for no-sugar-added options.
- Fruit leather– Make your own fruit leather, roll it in beautiful parchment paper, and tie with ribbon for a healthy treat. You can buy your own, or you can make a homemade version. Try Eating Well’s Fruit Leather.
- Crackers and chips– Organic Cheddar Bunnies are a clever option for Easter, but we also like others in different shapes made with natural and organic ingredients that are lower in sodium.
- Lollipops and gummies– There healthier options for these treats, but you have to look for the right ingredients. Holidays are so fun precisely because they’re the occasional time to splurge on goodies you only get to have once a year. We prefer treats that use natural juices for flavor and color.
Fun & Games
The Easter bunny can also provide amusing of options for play time.
- Board games –Easter and Spring themed games can be found online and at local stores. Also, compact versions of larger games are available to properly fit baskets.
- Delicious reads– Introduce a young reader to a fun read with books that have Spring and/or Easter themes.
- Family games– Being outdoors doesn’t need to stop after an Easter Egg Hunt. Once the baskets have been opened, head outdoors to enjoy the day. Go for a family walk or play outdoors with new sidewalk chalk or outdoor games like badminton, bubbles and hopscotch.
- Better basket options– Instead of a one-time-use basket, let the Bunny deliver the goodies in a bag that can be reused again and again. By this time of year, your little one’s lunch bag may be showing signs of wear. Get a new one to include in your basket.
- Bunnies and chicks– No Easter basket is complete without an adorable stuffed animal or two. Bunnies and chicks are great options!
Easter Basket Ideas for Older Kids (and Adults!)
Have older kids or want to share a basket with your husband or wife? There are some springtime items they may like in their basket.
- Splurge-worthy candy– Instead of filling the basket with cheap candy pieces, make a bit of a splurge with one good chocolate item that’s worth every bite.
- Cute kitchen tools– An older kid might not be excited by a stuffed bunny, but an adorable bunny towel for their kitchen adventures or cute bunny-decorated spatulas may excite them entirely.
- Creative kits – Coloring, painting, and designing are a great way to encourage creativity and downtime. Coloring, knitting or cross stitching kits are fun for tweens!
- Healthy living accessories– Instead of a basket, pack the Bunny’s offerings in a new yoga or gym bag. Head and wristbands are also fun items.
- Drink and dine– A stainless steel water bottle is a great gift and now, they come in bright seasonal colors.
Adapted from: https://www.cookinglight.com/entertaining/holidays-occasions/ideas-healthier-easter-basket
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