Let’s talk Easter baskets, shall we? Now, before you start picturing Pinterest-perfect masterpieces filled with custom monogrammed everything, a full-blown toy aisle, and enough sugar that could take down a heifer… let me stop you right there. Around here, I like to keep things intentional— not excessive. Because let’s be honest: no child has ever needed 14 pounds of neon plastic grass and a chocolate bunny the size of their head to feel loved. So I have gathered up some Easter basket ideas and inspiration for you that are simple, classic, and make the holiday so special for the kids.
A moment of silence for all the vacuum cleaners that died a slow and stringy death thanks to that cursed stuff. The static cling. The fact that it somehow reappears in July like it’s trying to haunt you. I shudder at the thought of my childhood and the nightmare that stuff was. I swore off plastic grass as soon as I entered motherhood 19 years ago and now I only use the kraft paper kind — you know, the responsible, grown-up version. It’s way more aesthetic and it doesn’t tangle itself into household machinery like it’s got a personal vendetta. I’m still haunted by the memories, but the pain has lessened over the years.
And here’s the kicker — everything I’m sharing here can be pulled together last minute. I’m talking Target run, Amazon Prime, or local shop swing-by level of doable. Because despite our best laid plans, life happens — and no one needs more pressure around the holidays and the effort to make them special. These ideas are simple, classic, and dare I say… sanity-saving? You can decide and let me know.
But whether you’re pulling together baskets for littles or trying to figure out what on earth a teenager might enjoy that doesn’t involve a screen or a Venmo request (we’ve all been there), I’ve got you covered.
I like to keep it simple, thoughtful, and just sweet enough. Here’s what that usually looks like:
Something fun (but not loud or breakable… ask me how I know).
Something useful (think art supplies, books, or spring accessories).
A special treat (but only from brands we trust and love).
A seasonal nod (because bunnies and chicks are irresistible this time of year).
And yes — always kraft crinkle paper. Forever and ever, amen.
Another thing we’ve become intentional about?
Filling our home with things that spark real, old-school kind of play. I’m talking jump ropes, puzzles, sidewalk chalk, card games, craft kits, and retro toys that don’t need a charger or Wi-Fi to work. We made the decision awhile ago to drastically reduce screen to leave more room for creativity, imagination, and movement as much as possible (easier said than done).
I love when an Easter basket starts with a classic silhouette. It’s gotta have just the right shape, you know? PB Kids has a beautiful one that I think you are able to pick up in store if you have one near you. But Target has also really nailed the classic option over the last few years and this one is adorable and a very good size. And remember, just say NO to the plastic Easter grass. Remember to grab this kind when you are at Target.
Usually my go-to choice for stuffed animals (which we love in our house) are Jellycat. But none of them ship within the week so I grabbed this bunny because I couldn’t resist the plaid ears and it is darling!
Forget the Stanley. We love Iron Flask in our home and while we have several kinds, I have a teenager who would love this style to have poolside all summer.
Another one for the teen girls – apparently handbags and crossbody’s are out and it’s all about the wristlet for keys and wallets.
This has such a fun retro design to it, but I also love how classic this game option is!
As I mentioned above, we only do sweets with healthier ingredients and we also rarely do them. We drastically adjusted our approach in this area almost four years ago now following Blair’s diagnosis . We absolutely love Unreal candy. Simple and clean ingredients, gluten free, and natural coloring. They are the best!
I have a little one who loves stickers, but I loved that this activity book included sticker scenes as well as coloring pages!
Adding books to Easter basket is an easy option and I love when I can tie it to the theme as well. Fortunately, we do not yet have this book in our family library yet.
Loved the classic look to this jump rope and I love that it will get the kids moving.
Anyone else love that this collegiate monogrammed look has been showing up everywhere? And I thought this floral approach to a makeup bag was so cute!
I have two girls in my home now who are wearing makeup and I am so grateful to know more about ingredients and keep them as healthy as possible. The Well People brand has been one of our favorites!
Maybe it’s the fact that we have been watching Leave It To Beaver as a family lately, but I think the kids are going to love learning all of the classic marble games!
Do you remember playing this back in grade school? I never had one, but loved learning from my friends who did. Figured I might be able to teach my kids a few.
I’ve always loved this option for older boys. It’s the size of a credit card so it fits into a wallet, but it contains 40 different tools and uses. So cool!
We ditched Bluetooth headphones in our home last year so someone is always needing a pair of wired ones.
If you prefer a cleaner option for play dough, this brand from Target is great. And I love the way it comes packaged!
We love Legos in our home and who can resist when it fits the theme?
If you’re like me, you want to create meaningful traditions without burning yourself out (or the budget). So whether your baskets are already prepped and picture-perfect or you’re panic-scrolling from the Target parking lot, just remember: a little intention goes a long way.
And hey, if you love curated ideas like this, I’d love to have you on my email list. That’s where I share even more inspiration — from behind-the-scenes favorites to seasonal finds — all designed to help you cultivate a well-designed life.
Wishing you a sweet and simple Easter!
April 13, 2025