Easter + Kids + Money

Money and Easter go together better than you might initially think. Did you know that the average family spends $150 on Easter? That’s a lot of chocolate eggs; not to mention party supplies, décor, food, fresh flowers, gifts, and, of course, more candy.

While you’re on the hunt for those perfect Easter treats - you sly bunny, you - consider turning this holiday into a teachable moment for your little bunnies. Yes, treats are fabulous but that sugar crash is inevitable, so why not mix it up with a few financial friendly alternatives? And while all of those decorations from the store seem like a must have, there are fun alternatives that you can make at home.

We’ve put together a list of a few candy and treat alternatives to suit your budget and to teach your little bunny the value of money. As well as a few money saving tips to keep this Easter sweet, for your little ones and your wallet!

1. Add some coins to the mix. We aren’t saying that all  the candy (and chocolate!) needs to be removed but instead of focusing just on “stuff,” consider filling a few of those plastic eggs with some money.
2. Reduce, reuse, recycle. New baskets every year? Nope! That basket from last year will work just fine and can be viewed as a special item that is only brought out once a year. Even recycling plastic eggs will save you a trip to the store and will give the landfill a much needed break. You’ll be teaching your kids lessons in frugality and environmental stewardship.
3. Make it, don’t buy it. By teaching your children to make chocolate or to create their own decorations from recycled items, they are learning the value of patience over immediate gratification, while getting to be creative! Also, you can find more tips here to how to teach kids about money. 
4. Consider one big item. Depending on the age of your child, consider gifting a big ticket item versus a multitude of little things that will inevitably find their way to the garbage bin.
5. The thrill of the hunt. Who loves a good treasure hunt? Make your little bunnies work for their rewards with a fun, engaging hunt that focuses more on the thrill of the chase, not the amount of “stuff” you get.

Above all, enjoy this time with your littles, while staying true to your budget. The memories you make together will be worth more than anything you can find at a store.