Easter Treats Without the Sweets

What's in your Easter Basket? Marshmallow Peeps, Cadbury Eggs, chocolate bunnies and Jelly Beans? These are some of the more popular and traditional Easter goodies that are often found in Easter Baskets these days. However, with the world turning its attention to health matters and improved eating habits, this Easter tradition of sweets and treats may be on the verge of change.

This is especially true for parents attempting to instill healthy eating practices in their children; thus leaving many parents in a dilemma...what shall we put in their Easter Baskets? Fortunately, there are several options available that will still provoke smiles and giggles of happiness from your little ones.

The simple and quick solution is to substitute chocolate and sugar filled goodies with more healthy snacks. Any grocery story has a variety of foods to choose from including peanuts, granola bars, fruit snacks, fresh fruit, graham crackers, peanut butter filled crackers, fig cookies, and the list goes on.

In addition to healthy snacks, there are other items that you could incorporate into the Easter Basket to make it fun. Look for some Easter-themed activity books, coloring books and story books for kids. They will surely enjoy having something fun and entertaining to do during the holiday. (Editor's note: try http://www.activityvillage.co.uk/easter.htm for a large selection of free printable puzzles, coloring pages and more for your kids to enjoy!)

Don't forget the traditional stuffed bunny! Or try something different by finding a stuffed duckling or baby chick. There are several Easter or Spring theme stuffed animals to choose from out in retail world.

You may also find fun Easter theme toys, such as small wind up animals and stickers. Another fun idea, especially if you get an activity book, are Easter theme pencils and erasers. You may even find crayons or markers in bright Spring colors.

If you still have room in that Easter Basket, cute clothing is always a winner. Whether it is Easter theme or just designed with Spring colors, buying clothing is fun and serves a wonderful purpose. Clothing that is rolled tightly and tied off with a colorful ribbon can fit into a small space and makes a nice presentation.

There are many ways to celebrate the holiday and fill the traditional Easter Basket without contributing to a sugar overdose. Have an open mind and let the ideas take form. Do some shopping at the local grocery store and see what you can come up with. Easter is busy time for retailers and many have had their items out since Valentine's Day. Shop around, be creative, and let's try to keep our kids healthy without missing out on the fun!

Elizabeth Smith is a part-time freelance writer and owner of the gift shop Crafty Gift Creations. View the wonderful selection of Easter Baskets, both sweet and unsweet! For more gift ideas, visit her gift giving blog ~ Topics, Tips and Tangents.

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