Easter is a time of joy, renewal, and of course, the beloved tradition of Easter baskets! As a parent who’s assembled countless Easter surprises over the years, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to create the perfect basket for your child. From choosing the right container to filling it with age-appropriate goodies, shopping Easter baskets requires thoughtful planning. Whether you’re a first-time Easter basket creator or looking to refresh your approach, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting and customizing Easter baskets that will light up your children’s faces on Easter morning. Let’s hop to it and explore the wonderful world of Easter basket shopping!
1. Set a Budget for Your Easter Basket Shopping
Before diving into the colorful world of Easter baskets, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) that establishing a budget is crucial. Without one, it’s surprisingly easy to get carried away with all the adorable options available.
When I first started creating Easter baskets for my kids, I remember walking into a store and being completely overwhelmed by the options. Two hours and $100 later, I had barely started on one basket! Now I approach it more strategically.
- Determine your total Easter budget – Consider how many baskets you need to create and divide your funds accordingly
- Allocate funds for different components – Set aside specific amounts for the basket itself, candy, toys, and other fillers
- Look for bundle deals – Many stores offer pre-packaged basket stuffers that can be more economical than buying items individually
- Consider non-candy alternatives – Small toys, books, or art supplies can be less expensive than premium chocolates and last longer
Remember that creating memorable Easter baskets doesn’t necessarily mean spending a fortune. Some of the most cherished baskets I’ve created were modest in cost but thoughtfully assembled with items I knew my children would love.
Pro Tip: Shop post-Easter clearance sales to stock up on non-perishable basket items, containers, and decorations for next year at 50-75% off. I keep a dedicated “Easter box” in my storage closet for these bargains.
2. Match the Basket to Your Child’s Age and Interests
One of the most important aspects of shopping Easter baskets is considering your child’s developmental stage and personal preferences. I’ve found that age-appropriate baskets not only delight children more but also ensure safety and relevance.
For Babies and Toddlers (0-3 years)
- Soft, plush baskets with rounded edges
- Teething toys or large plastic eggs (avoid small parts)
- Board books with Easter themes
- Soft stuffed bunnies or chicks
- Baby-safe snacks instead of candy
For Preschoolers (3-5 years)
- Character-themed baskets featuring favorite TV shows or movies
- Bubbles, sidewalk chalk, or Play-Doh
- Simple crafts or coloring books
- Easy puzzles or building blocks
- Limited amounts of age-appropriate candy
For School-Age Children (6-12 years)
- Sport or hobby-themed baskets
- Small LEGO sets or collectible figures
- Chapter books or graphic novels
- Outdoor toys like jump ropes or frisbees
- Art supplies or science kits
For Teens (13+ years)
- More sophisticated baskets or containers (could be a useful storage bin)
- Gift cards to favorite stores or streaming services
- Tech accessories like earbuds or phone cases
- Personal care items or trendy accessories
- Specialty candies or gourmet treats
I once made the mistake of buying my 10-year-old son a basket filled with preschool-level items because they had his once-favorite character on them. The disappointed look on his face taught me to pay attention to his current interests, not what he loved three years ago!
3. Explore Different Types of Easter Baskets
When shopping Easter baskets, you’ll discover there’s a world beyond the traditional wicker basket. Each type offers different benefits and can be repurposed after the holiday.
Traditional Baskets
- Wicker/Natural Fiber Baskets – Classic, reusable, and environmentally friendly
- Plastic Baskets – Colorful, durable, and easy to clean
- Fabric Baskets – Soft, collapsible for storage, and often personalized
Themed Baskets
- Character Baskets – Featuring favorite movie, TV, or book characters
- Sports Baskets – Shaped like or decorated with sports equipment
- Activity Baskets – Designed around hobbies like art, baking, or gardening
Alternative Containers
- Toy Buckets/Sand Pails – Double as summer play equipment
- Decorative Storage Bins – Useful long after Easter
- Backpacks or Tote Bags – Practical for school or activities
- Craft Boxes or Tool Kits – Perfect for creative or handy kids
I’ve found that thinking outside the traditional basket has led to some of our most memorable Easter mornings. Last year, I used colorful rain boots as “baskets” for my children, filled with spring-themed goodies. They wore those boots proudly for months afterward!
Pro Tip: Consider the reusability factor when selecting a basket type. My children still use high-quality Easter baskets from years past for storing toys, collecting shells at the beach, or organizing their rooms.
4. Find the Best Places to Shop for Easter Baskets
Knowing where to shop Easter baskets can save you time, money, and frustration. I’ve tried virtually every option over the years, and each has its advantages.
Brick-and-Mortar Stores
- Dollar Stores – Budget-friendly basics and fillers
- Target/Walmart – Wide selection at reasonable prices
- Craft Stores – High-quality baskets and creative fillers
- Specialty Gift Shops – Unique, premium baskets and contents
- Grocery Stores – Convenient one-stop shopping for baskets and treats
Online Options
- Amazon – Endless variety with quick shipping
- Etsy – Handmade, personalized baskets and fillers
- Specialty Candy Websites – Unique treats not found in stores
- Subscription Boxes – Curated Easter-themed boxes delivered to your door
I’ve had both triumphs and disasters with last-minute shopping. One year, I waited until the day before Easter and found myself fighting over the last decent basket at the picked-over store. Now I start looking at least two weeks ahead and often order specialty items online even earlier.
5. Add a Personal Touch to Your Easter Basket
The most memorable Easter baskets are those with thoughtful, personal touches. This is where you transform a generic basket into something special that shows how well you know your child.
- Name Personalization – Add your child’s name to the basket with embroidery, vinyl decals, or even a simple tag
- Customized Easter Eggs – Write special messages or inside jokes on plastic eggs
- Handmade Items – Include a simple craft you’ve made, like a beaded bracelet or painted wooden ornament
- Photo Additions – Tuck in a small framed photo or photo keychain
- Special Notes – Write a letter “from the Easter Bunny” or a heartfelt note from you
- Family Traditions – Include items that connect to your family’s Easter traditions
One of my favorite personalization techniques is creating a small scavenger hunt with clues tailored to each child that leads them to their basket. My children talk about these hunts long after the candy is gone!
Pro Tip: Take photos of your children with their Easter baskets each year. Creating this visual timeline becomes a cherished family keepsake that captures their changing interests and growth.
Conclusion
Shopping Easter baskets for your children doesn’t have to be stressful or break the bank. With thoughtful planning, attention to age-appropriateness, and personal touches, you can create Easter morning magic that your children will remember fondly. I’ve found that the most successful baskets aren’t necessarily the most expensive or elaborate—they’re the ones assembled with love and an understanding of what makes your child unique.
Remember that Easter baskets are about creating traditions and memories. Whether you opt for a traditional wicker basket filled with chocolate bunnies or think outside the box with a themed container tailored to your child’s passions, the thought and care you put into it is what truly matters. Happy Easter basket shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to start shopping for Easter baskets?
I recommend starting your Easter basket shopping about 3-4 weeks before Easter. This gives you enough time to find the perfect items without the last-minute rush, while still ensuring that perishable treats stay fresh.
How much should I expect to spend on an Easter basket?
The average Easter basket costs between $25-$50, but you can create lovely baskets for less or spend more for premium items. Setting a budget beforehand helps control costs while ensuring you get everything you need.
Are pre-made Easter baskets worth buying?
Pre-made baskets can be convenient time-savers, but they often contain generic items and may not reflect your child’s specific interests. If you’re short on time, they’re a reasonable option, but customizing your own basket typically offers better value and personalization.
What are some non-candy alternatives for Easter baskets?
Great non-candy alternatives include books, art supplies, outdoor toys, bath products, small games, puzzles, hair accessories, socks, small LEGO sets, stickers, seeds for planting, bubbles, chalk, or small stuffed animals.
How can I make Easter baskets more eco-friendly?
To create more eco-friendly Easter baskets, choose reusable or biodegradable baskets, opt for plastic-free packaging, select fair-trade chocolate, include sustainable gifts like wooden toys or seed packets, and use natural materials like paper grass instead of plastic basket filler.
