Inexpensive Ways to Fill an Easter Basket
by Mia Cronan
http://MainStreetMom.com 

In recent years, I've come up with items that my kids enjoy, get excited about, and can appreciate for a longer period of time than candy would last. 

I'm one of those mothers who tries to avoid giving my kids too much candy, fearing that they'll only want more and then have a "sweets problem" as adults, or worse, an eating disorder. So when occasions such as Halloween, Christmas, and Easter roll around, I look for any way possible to offer treats that aren't sweets.

In recent years, I've come up with items that my kids enjoy, get excited about, and can appreciate for a longer period of time than candy would last. Here are some ideas to get you thinking about your Easter baskets:

1. My kids get flower seeds in their baskets every year (Mommy gets bulbs <grin>). They each get a different kind, they plant them themselves, and they take pride in watching the first sprouts and blossoms. They're colorful, Spring-like, and beautiful.

2. Kids' sunglasses aren't real solid quality as a rule, so they get new (cheap) sunglasses in their baskets, assuming that last year's were worn to death, crushed by the Cozy Coupe, or flushed down the toilet. It's normally a safe assumption.

3. New fabric sun hats are always a favorite. Usually the old ones are outgrown, over-washed, or simply non-existent for whatever reason. 

4. Mini-books or small prayer books are always a nice addition. There are some beautiful prayer books out that have lovely pictures and simple phrases. They've also proven effective in keeping my children quiet and still in church, at least for a few minutes.

5. Miniature stuffed animals are a favorite (I don't buy Beanie Babies...I'm too cheap.) They especially love baby bunnies for Easter.

6. A colorful pencil is a great idea for the wee ones just learning to write their letters. 

7. I have four girls, so hair doo-dads are always a hit. They swap and share, and have a great time matching them to outfits.

Perhaps if you can't use any of these ideas, you might have thought of some things on your own. Whatever you do, have a happy, safe, and blessed Easter!

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