Non-Candy Basket Ideas for Easter

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Dear Easter Bunny,

I know this is your busy season, so I'll be brief.

Can we talk about candy?

I mean, listen, I love candy as much as any kid, but there has been a non-stop influx at our house since Halloween. Managing candy has become like a part of my job. The candy comes in (by the ton, it seems) and I go through it, throw out the total junk, send the bulk of it away for donation, and keep some for the children to avoid a mutiny. Something’s got to give.

I don’t mean to be a total stick in the mud. Candy has it’s place. I’ve been known to enjoy a Kit Kat (or a Cadbury Flake! Mmmm..) from time to time. But, I’m sure you’re aware, Easter Bunny, a lot of this stuff is generally packed with sugar, artificial colors, and ingredients no one can pronounce—not exactly what we want as a staple in our children’s diet.

Every once in a while as a special treat is totally fun, I’m with ya on that, but since the month (yes, month!) of Halloween festivities, we moved onto Christmas, which really began at Thanksgiving, and then on to Valentine’s Day, and then just when I was sure it was over, the Leprechaun scattered gold chocolate coins everywhere! (Deep breaths.)

So, here we are on the eve of your big day, Easter Bunny. I know candy is a tradition and I don’t expect us to go cold turkey, but what if (stay with me here) you include one or two special pieces of candy, like a quality chocolate bunny from a local chocolatier and some Cadbury eggs? 

Then, to round out the basket, include non-candy items. Huh? Huh? 

(Elena Hramova/Shutterstock)

To make it as easy as possible for you, I’ve even gone ahead and compiled a list of ideas for you to choose from:

Books

Coloring Books

Craft Supplies

Golf Balls

Socks

Jewelry

Gift Cards

Bubbles

Travel Cups

Pajamas

Journal

Pens

Stickers

Beach Towels

Bunny Slippers

Jump Rope

Sunglasses

Nail Polish

Pack of Cards

Sidewalk Chalk

Matchbox Cars

Wooden Blocks

Animal Figurines

Toothbrush

Hair Bows

Umbrella

Oh, an of course, a stuffed animal bunny. 

Thanks for all of the joy you bring the children at Easter, Easter Bunny!