Easter Basket Ideas for Kids Under 3

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I’m not going to lie, Easter is one of my least favorite holidays.

Before you get all holy on me, let me explain why. For starters, it isn’t really on my radar because I’m not religious at all. Granted, I was raised to believe in Christianity so Easter used to be a thing for me. I loved decorating the hard boiled eggs, hunting plastic eggs filled with candy (and sometimes money $$) with my sisters, and I especially loved digging into my Easter basket that our mom so thoughtfully put together.

As I’ve gotten older and outgrew organized religion and the Easter bunny, I just outgrew the holiday entirely. I haven’t been to an egg hunt in years. I don’t remember the last time I decorated eggs. And truthfully, I couldn’t tell you the last time I got a woven pastel basket. So each year as the holiday creeps closer, I am always surprised by the outpouring of posts on social media about Sunday school programs and family gatherings where Uncle Mike drank too much wine and exhibited some not-so-Christlike behaviors in front of the kids.

Last year for Easter I was a shitty mom because I didn’t get my daughter an Easter basket.

In my defense, she was only six months old. six month old babies can barely get up on their own to see inside an Easter basket, so I don’t really feel that bad about it. I mean, I still bought her a six-foot stuffed caterpillar that she loves to this day, and a big elephant chair. So I’d say she was pretty happy with her first Easter even without the basket. Look at how happy she was!

This year, though? She’s gonna have a bomb Easter basket.

I gotta say, it is tough trying to figure out what to put in a basket for a kid under 2 or 3 years old. Most toys seem to be marketed for the older toddlers (age 3+) and aren’t very friendly for the younger kids. But I did a bit of brainstorming – and a decent amount of shopping because it is so therapeutic – and came up with some Easter basket ideas for kids under 3!

Infant Specific Ideas

If your child is still in infancy, I’d recommend sticking to the baby basics. A soft blanket or lovey and some new booties would do! I personally love BirdRock Baby‘s collection – you can check them out on Amazon here. Elsie has had a couple pairs of booties and moccasins from them, and they are so comfy!

Maybe try a new pacifier or teething ring if the old one is worn out. Of course, bath items and clothing is always a good option too. Keep reading or jump to the list at the bottom of the page for ideas that are friendly for all ages.

Beachwear & Swim Accessories

Easter is a great time to get prepped for the hot days of summer. Grab a new swimsuit, sandals, and sunglasses for your little one. If you don’t have a pool where you live, get an inflatable kiddie pool. These are great because they are so easy to store once the weather cools back down. If you’re going to a full size pool, hunt for a beach towel with your child’s favorite cartoon character, snag some floaties, and don’t forget the sunscreen!

Bath Items

If you’re a practical mom like me, you know that some of the best gifts you can give are ones that your child needs. Put together a bathtime themed Easter basket with a new bath towel, bath sponge or loofa, and tub toys. Make sure you add some bubble bath and body wash! You could throw in a cool new toothbrush and toothpaste, or even a grooming kit for after bathtime is over.

Everyday Items For Home

Other practical gift ideas would be items you use at mealtimes such as spoons, forks, plates, and bowls. Personally I tend to buy all the sippy cups! I love having a variety for different options (milk is only allowed in certain cups because some are easier to wash than others). Other everyday options would be clothes – especially socks – and maybe a new blanket or pillow if the old one is getting a little icky.

Indoor Play

On days when the weather isn’t ideal for playing outside, your kiddo needs some indoor activities to stay occupied. Create an Easter basket with this in mind. Maybe focus on art supplies and coloring books (you can check out Crayola’s website to get 30% off all through April using the code SPRING at checkout). You could also encourage learning through books and DVDs of your child’s favorite educational shows.

Outdoor Fun

If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you probably know I started a garden this year. Well it turns out that Elsie loves helping me in the garden. My parents got her a little Minnie Mouse garden tool kit, and I found some cute little Paw Patrol kits for kids to grow their own flowers! Another outdoor activity we enjoy is drawing with sidewalk chalk. Crayola has other outdoor activities here.

Since spring also brings rainy days, grab some rain attire. I always loved getting a new umbrella and boots as a kid personally! Rain jackets and rain boots make the gross weather a lot more enjoyable.

What are you putting in your toddler’s Easter basket this year?

I wanna know! Tell me in the comments below.