12 Non-Candy Easter Basket Ideas

We hesitate to put lists like this together because we feel like kids already have SO much, and we don’t want you to think you need to go out and BUY a bunch of things.

But we also know a really FUN part of being a parent can be holidays and creating fun experiences for your kids, right? We totally feel that, too. So, we figured, why not! Let’s have a little fun with it!

Here are 12 non-candy Easter basket ideas that will have our kids lighting up on Easter morning.

We love supporting small local shops, so we definitely encourage that! We’ve linked to Amazon here if that’s your preference.

Ideas with a focus on language development & play

Here is a list of non-candy ideas to include in a child’s Easter eggs (speech and language/early learning focused, of course!):

Wind-up toys

Wind-up toys can help encourage a child to communicate because they need an adult to make them go again. Sometimes, because we know our kids so well, we anticipate their needs. This does not give them a chance to try to communicate with us and practice these skills. When the wind-up toy stops, pause and WAIT for your child to communicate they would like more. For some kids, this will be a gesture or eye gaze, for some the sign for “more,” and for others a whole sentence.

Finger Puppets

Back and forth interaction between caregivers and kids helps language develop. Finger puppets are fun for kids of all ages, and they really encourage this back and forth communication in a fun way. We find them from IKEA and Etsy.

Musical Egg Shakers

These can last a lifetime, and your child will get a lot of use out of them over the years. It’s great for any age and a good investment.

Small Toys

Toy animals, little cars, or people are amazing! Build up a collection for pretend play.

Magnetic Letters and Numbers

These are great because they present a really beneficial opportunity to talk about letters and numbers! They feel fun and relaxed… more like a toy than anything else!

Notes

Handwritten notes with clues for where to find eggs, or notes from the Easter Bunny himself, can be so fun on Easter morning! There are so many ways you could add in language tips too, by adding directions! This shows kids that reading and writing are fun.

Other Fun Ideas

For the actual basket, we generally like to put in items we plan to buy anyway such as a sun hat, sandals, sidewalk chalk, or summer pjs. Here are a few other options:

Placemats with pictures

Great for talking during mealtimes and also come in handy for doing art projects and playing with play-doh.

Play-Doh

While we’re on the topic… why not add a few new pots of Play-Doh to your collection!

Bubbles!

It’s nice to have a small one for the stroller or diaper bag.

Experiences

It' can be fun to include a gift certificate to a safe local or virtual class! Our online songs and stories membership would be a great option! (In Vancouver, we love music and art classes at Chorus and Clouds and Jump Gymnastics.)

Books

Not sure which ones to choose? Grab a copy of our top picks for engaging baby and toddler books!

Art Supplies

We love having a set of watercolor paints, and we find it less messy on days when you just can't deal with a mess! We’re also loving Washi tape, and stickers are just always a huge hit.

Kwik Stix

Love to encourage creativity but not a huge fan of mess? These fast drying paint sticks are the perfect compromise for your little ones. We love to use them on cardboard boxes or roll out a big sheet of paper and let our toddlers go.

Gardening supplies

Nothing says spring like flowers and plants! Things like shovels, pails, and buckets can set the stage for you to have some fun outdoor time together this season.

YumBox Bento Box

These bento-style lunch containers are perfect to add to the Easter basket while also having something useful for everyday. The 6 part container tray is perfect for those toddlers who like a variety in their lunch.

Use code WEETALKERS for 10% off your purchase.

Tubby Todd

For parents who want something practical in their Easter Basket. We always love products from Tubby Todd. The All Over Ointment is great for little babies and toddlers. We also love to stock up on their great bundles!

Solly Baby

If you’re looking for a few things to add for your baby’s basket, Solly Baby make's adorable sleepers that will get so much use from your little one. If you have one of their wraps, you know how soft and cozy their products are!

Related: 10 Children’s Gift Ideas that Support Small Businesses

When In Doubt, Books!

If you need some fun book ideas for your child’s Easter basket, grab a copy of our booklist and make your next book haul a breeze!

Join us in songs + stories!

Always a great gift.