Easter morning is full of excitement and anticipation for kiddos and watching them hunt for what goodies the Easter Bunny has left them is the best!
However, being on social media or taking a trip to the store during this time can feel overwhelming. It seems like Easter gets bigger and bigger every year….and more expensive. But it doesn’t have to be! Here are some tips to fill your baskets on a budget.
USE LAST YEAR’S BASKET
There is no need to buy a new basket every year or new grass for that matter. Most baskets can be reused and stored for the next year. Or get creative and use one of their Easter gifts as a basket. Are they getting a new sun hat or sand bucket…boom it’s a vessel for all the Easter goodies.
SHOP THE DOLLAR STORE
They really do have everything you need for an Easter basket. Small trinkets, books, puzzles, and candies to add to your basket, Dollar Stores has it all.
SKIP THE PRE-MADE BASKETS
The baskets at the store that filled with candy and toys are more expensive. Instead of buying one that is already built, why not create your own? Your kids and you could decorate oatmeal boxes, shoe boxes or even wicker baskets with stickers, paper, and Easter grass. Then, you can pick up a few little things to make it yourself. This way kids get what you want them to have nor do they end up with toys or candy your kids don’t like.
GO HOMEMADE ON THE FILLERS
Rather than pick up candy and other items, you could easily include homemade cookies. You could put dimes and quarters inside of the eggs. You could even make your own sidewalk chalk!
GET ONE BIG ITEM AND SKIP THE SMALL STUFF
You could just decide to buy one larger toy and then toss a few candies into your baskets. This simplifies things and cuts down on wasted toys and money. It makes sense to spend a bit more on something that will last rather than less on things which will end up in the trash or bottom of the toy box.
DON’T FORGET YOUR COUPONS
Around the holidays there are usually good coupons on candy and toys. Match these with your store sales to get a great deal. Most couponing is digital now so you don’t even have to worry about clipping and keeping up with paper.
MAKE YOUR OWN GRASS
Rather than buy the plastic grass, why not make it? This can be another Easter activity your kiddos get to enjoy. Use your paper shredder and create grass out of colored construction paper. It not only saves you money but it a fun project too!
FILL THE BASKET WITH THINGS THEY NEED
Things like sunglasses, socks, underwear, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hats and even flip flops are great basket fillers. These are things that are needed, and can still be fun!
SHOP AHEAD
When the Easter items go on clearance on the Monday following the holiday, start stocking up! You can pick up coloring kits, baskets, grass, plastic eggs and so much more! It’s the time of the year to replace what needs replacing and even find fun ideas for next year.
This commentary was originally posted by Penny Pinchin’ Mom, February 21, 2018
Source: https://www.pennypinchinmom.com/easy-ways-to-save-money-on-your-easter-baskets/
**Disclaimer: This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.