5 Easter gifts kids will love that aren’t chocolate

With shop shelves currently lined with hundreds of colourful Easter eggs of all shapes and sizes, it’s easy to get sucked into the chocolate-buying frenzy.

If you’re not keen on feeding your kids up with sugar and dealing with the associated crash and burn that inevitably follows, why not gift them something a little different this year.

5 Easter gifts that don’t resemble shocolate

1. A pot plant or flower

You don’t have to be a green thumb, just visit your local nursery, florist or hardware chain and you’ll find plenty of options.

Keep in mind the age of your child and consider that a nice flowering plant might look edible to a toddler so maybe opt for a leafy variety. For something different why not get a furry or spiky cactus? This is a great way to teach kids about taking care of something in order for it to thrive.

Hint: For a plant or flower that won’t make a mess, why not buy a fake one!

2. Hat or sunglasses

While buying your child a new pair of pyjamas to suit the change of season is a practical idea, so is finding a funky hat or pair of sunglasses.

It’s a great way to introduce little ones to the concept of sun safety but also a smart way to remind older kids and teens to protect their eyes and skin from the harmful sun.

3. A fancy new toothbrush

It’s a tough gig on the best of days convincing children to brush their teeth so why not make it interesting with a talking or singing toothbrush.

From super heroes to Disney characters there’s a huge variety out there, my boys recently got a Star Wars lightsaber toothbrush and are ridiculously excited about brushing their teeth!

4. A pet 

So if you’ve been thinking about a cat or dog then why not use Easter as an excuse to finally get one?

If you’re not ready for the commitment that comes with four-legged friends, then consider a fish, mouse or even a hermit crab. Not only will you be the best parent in the world but it’s a good way to teach kids about animals and responsibility.

5. Plant seeds or a tree 

A fun and educational idea is to get your kids to choose some vegetable, herb or flower seeds to plant.

Check the packet to see when is the best time to sow seeds or get a small planter box for inside and start this way. Most children are impatient so for quick results try varieties that sprout quickly or will have beautiful flowers. If you have space, you could also plant a tree in your backyard and give it a special name or meaning.

Hint: Help your child suspend an avocado pit in water and watch it grow roots or cut the top of a pineapple and put it in a shallow tray for a crazy spiky plant.

Well, there you have it! Five awesome Easter gifts the kiddies will LOVE that are NOT chocolate!

How to help your kids not overindulge on chocolate this Easter

1. Make healthier alternatives

If you are entertaining see our Healthy Mummy Easter Ebook filled with healthier recipe ideas.

2. Use plastic eggs instead of chocolate for an Easter egg hunt

Try choosing smaller chocolates or hollow eggs for easter hunts. The kids (and adults) will still see and collect lots of colourful eggs without having excess left over after Easter.

We love reusable plastic egg shaped containers that you can fill. You can find these in most supermarkets and these are great for egg hunts and gifts. You can fill them with anything you like, small toys, lollies/chocolate or treats of your choosing or even clues for an egg hunt.

3. Melt down leftover chocolate instead of eating it

If you find you have excess chocolates left over at the end of Easter and wish to avoid temptation, try chopping, melting or crushing your chocolates into one of our recipes, such as the Wholemeal Choc Chip Muffins and Peanut Bubble Crunch. 

You can also freeze leftover chocolates so they are ‘out of sight’ but still available for a sweet treat when you choose.

4. Eat before heading to your family gatherings

Eating breakfast or a snack with a source of protein before you head to your Easter get togethers can help you make more mindful choices rather than arriving hungry.

When should I introduce chocolate to my child?

Easter might seem like the best time to introduce your little one to chocolate for the first time, seeing as they may struggle to avoid it around this time of year.

Many experts recommend introducing your children to chocolate after your child’s first birthday, even close to their second birthday, as chocolate contains caffeine and sugar.

You don’t have to let your child have a whole Easter egg in one sitting, you can opt for pieces of an egg or a smaller egg. However, be aware that smaller, harder eggs could be a choking hazard. You could use a larger hollow egg and break off pieces to give to your little one across the easter weekend.

4 sugar free sweet treats the whole family will love this Easter

Low Carb Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

You won’t believe that these are actually healthy and only 128 cals! They are so indulgent and delicious, the whole family will love them. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer (if there ARE any leftovers!)

Get the recipe for Low Carb Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups here

Choc Raspberry Volcano Cookies

These Choc Raspberry cookies are the perfect sweet treat. So you have them on hand for when cravings strike, make them in bulk and store cookies in an airtight container in the freezer for 2-3 months, simply top with Jam when serving.

Get this recipe on the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge

Flourless Chocolate Cake

This flourless and sugar-free indulgent cake contains a mystery ingredient that’s full of fibre and protein! This show-stopping dessert won’t just satisfy your sugar cravings, it’ll keep you fuller for longer.

Get the recipe for Flourless Chocolate Cake here

Mini Salted Caramel Cheesecakes

How amazing do these little gems look? At just 119 calories per cheesecake, they make the perfect dessert or sweet snack. Using Natvia’s salted caramel topping, you get that wonderful sweet-salty hit!

Get the recipe on the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge.

Easter is nearly here and if you are worried about sugar overload this Easter then NEVER FEAR – The Healthy Mummy is here!

Be sure to check out our Healthy Easter Cookbook eBook! 

With ideas for main meals and sides for family lunches or dinners, healthy chocolate recipes so you can indulge in sweet treats, while still following your healthy lifestyle goals, plus homemade gift ideas so you can pass on your healthy ways to friends and family.

Just because there are chocolate Easter eggs everywhere at this time of year, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun. Eating healthy, fresh foods and spending time with your family is what an enjoyable life is all about.

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