Easter is April 12. I have always loved putting together treats for my son, and Easter is no exception. Now, hear me out for a second. This post is not meant to give the impression I go all out, or pressure you to treat Easter like it’s Christmas Day. My thoughts here are that you would supplement more traditional Easter basket fillers like candy, snacks, and smaller trinkets (bandaids are even a hit in this house) with maybe one or two items from this list. In addition to sharing unique Easter basket ideas under $15 for big kids, I’ll be sharing ideas for putting together themed baskets.
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Scratch Paper Art
My son cracks me up with these! His teacher seems to have split up a pack of these scratch paper art mini notes (genius!) to offer in her treasure box at school. Instead of writing notes and drawing pictures, Benjamin scratches the entire thing off. *giggle* And I don’t even care because he loves doing it so much, and it keeps him highly entertained. This Scratch Paper Art Set for Kids looks pretty fun too!
Cooking for Kids
Most kids love to cook, and I’m all for teaching life skills at an early age! It would be cute to put together a cooking-themed Easter basket. You could pair The Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs with an adorable children’s apron rolled up, or The Complete Baking Book for Young Chefs with some fun sprinkles, cupcake liners, and spring-themed cookie cutters from the dollar store or section.
STEM / STEAM Projects + Science Experiments
Kids love conducting experiments and I am always for infusing fun with a little learning experience. There are so many easy STEM/ STEAM projects that you can do with things you already have at home. These books will help guide the way and give way to memorable and educational experiences.
LEGO + Engineering for Kids
I think most kids love to build things. Even as a little guy, Benjamin loved wooden blocks and DUPLO and couldn’t wait to graduate to real LEGO building systems. These books/ kits offer a way to add a little learning into the building process by providing instruction in creating unique gizmos and gadgets.
Craft Kits for Big Kids
I am a BIG proponent of art in education and in our household. A look back at previous posts will demonstrate that Benjamin has had crayons, pencils and paints in his hands practically since he could hold them. Kids get so much pride out of creating things for themselves, their friends and loved ones. Try adding a craft kit into their Easter basket this year to nurture their creativity and give them a break from screens.
Other Ways to Get Creative
Coloring has been shown to provide relaxation and stress reduction, plus its super fun so there are TONS of great coloring books available in a variety of themes. Stickers, gems, beads and other decorative elements can also be included in Easter baskets for creative fun. I love the idea of this water bottle kit that kids can decorate and then reuse at school or during sports.
Games & Puzzles
Working puzzles and playing games is a great way to bond as a family and they are just downright fun. Find puzzles that appeal to your child’s interests or games that will focus on a strength of theirs.
So, this game is more than $15 but I wanted to mention it because it is SO much fun! Plus, it’s small enough to fit in a traditional Easter basket. 😉 My son and nephew played this game at least 10x a day over winter break. They’re 7 and 9 years old.
Things That Will Make Them Laugh
Let’s face it, being a kid can be tough these days. We are currently sheltering-in-place but even when kids are in school, their everyday schedules can seem overwhelming. Anything that can get them to laugh is a win in my book so encourage the laughter with a funny joke book, prank kit or a humorous book for them to read.
Nature-themed Easter Gifts
My son has always enjoyed time outdoors and I wish we had room for a garden but our little patio garden will have to do for now. Encourage your kiddos love for outdoors with gardening/ nature themed books, kits and tools. Kids will love raising their own veggies and flowers or watching for bugs in their very own Bug Hotel.
Easter-Themed Activities and Ideas for Families
Easter may look a little different than usual this year but you can still make it memorable for your family. Following, I’ve linked to some of my favorite bloggers for additional Easter ideas that you may want to check out.
- Easter Basket Ideas for Toddlers without Candy via Twins & Coffee
- Rice Krispie Easter Eggs via Liz Rotz
- Italian Easter Bread via Arataria at Home
- Easy Natural Dyed Easter Deviled Eggs via and Hattie Makes Three
- Easy Easter Egg Hunt Pudding Cups via The Samantha Show
- No Candy Easter Basket Ideas for Girls via The House of the Hood Blog
PIN TO YOUR EASTER AND BIG KID GIFT PINTEREST BOARDS
