What To Put In An Easter Basket For An 18 Month Old?

Easter is a time for joy, celebration, and new beginnings. For parents of 18-month-old toddlers, it’s also a time to fill their little ones’ Easter baskets with exciting and age-appropriate surprises. But with so many options available, choosing the perfect gifts can be overwhelming.

To help you create an Easter basket that will delight your toddler and foster their development, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best gifts to include:

Sensory Play and Exploration

• Sensory Bin: Fill a small bin with a variety of textures, such as rice, beans, shredded paper, and small toys. Allow your toddler to explore the different materials with their hands and senses.
• Playdough: Playdough provides a wonderful opportunity for tactile exploration and creativity. Choose playdough in bright colors and add cookie cutters or other tools for added fun.
• Musical Instruments: Drums, maracas, and xylophones introduce young toddlers to the wonders of music. Encourage their rhythm and coordination by providing them with these simple instruments.

Cognitive Development

• Board Books: Books with sturdy pages and bright pictures are perfect for toddlers’ developing cognitive skills. Choose books with animals, vehicles, or simple stories that will engage their attention.
• Shape Sorter: Shape sorters help toddlers learn about shapes and colors while developing their fine motor skills. Choose a sorter with large, easy-to-grasp shapes for their age.
• Stacking Blocks: Stacking blocks are a classic toy that promotes problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, and color recognition.

Physical Activity

• Ball: A soft, lightweight ball is a great way to encourage physical activity and gross motor skills. Play catch or roll the ball back and forth with your toddler.
• Scooter: A scooter with a seat provides a safe and stable way for toddlers to practice balance and coordination. Choose a scooter with adjustable handlebars for added convenience.
• Ride-On Toy: Ride-on toys, such as small cars or animals, are a fun way to foster motor development and imagination.

Comfort and Nurturing

• Stuffed Animal: A soft, cuddly stuffed animal can provide comfort and companionship to your toddler. Choose a stuffed animal that is safe for their age and easy to carry around.
• Blanket: A small, soft blanket is perfect for snuggling up with at nap time or during story time. Choose a blanket made of breathable fabric, such as cotton or muslin.
• Bath Toys: Bath time can be a fun and relaxing experience for toddlers. Include some colorful, squeezable bath toys to make bath time more enjoyable.

Food and Treats

• Organic Fruit: Fresh fruit, such as bananas, apples, or berries, is a healthy and nutritious treat for toddlers. Cut fruit into small pieces to prevent choking.
• Yogurt Drops: Yogurt drops are a bite-sized, protein-packed snack that is perfect for toddlers on the go. Choose yogurt drops made with whole milk or Greek yogurt.
• Fruit Leather: Fruit leather is a dried fruit snack that is naturally sweet and chewy. It’s a great alternative to candy and provides some essential vitamins and minerals.

Additional Tips

• Personalize the Basket: Add a special touch to the Easter basket by including a personalized item, such as a name tag or embroidered blanket.
• Wrap Gifts Thoughtfully: Use Easter-themed paper or tissue paper to wrap gifts and make the basket look festive.
• Consider Age Appropriateness: Make sure the gifts you choose are age-appropriate for an 18-month-old toddler. Avoid toys with small parts or sharp edges.
• Set a Budget: Decide on a budget before you start shopping to avoid overspending. There are plenty of great Easter gifts available at a variety of price points.

Questions and Answers

Q: What are some good Easter basket stuffer ideas for an 18-month-old that aren’t toys?
A: Books, bath toys, organic fruit, and yogurt drops are all great non-toy options for Easter baskets.

Q: What should I avoid putting in an Easter basket for an 18-month-old?
A: Avoid toys with small parts, sharp edges, or hard surfaces that could be dangerous. Also, avoid candy or sugary treats.

Q: How much should I spend on an Easter basket for an 18-month-old?
A: The amount you spend on an Easter basket depends on your budget. However, it’s possible to create a thoughtful and enjoyable basket without breaking the bank.

Q: What are some tips for personalizing an Easter basket?
A: Add a personalized name tag, embroider the toddler’s name on a blanket, or include a special memento or keepsake.

Q: What kind of Easter basket should I choose for an 18-month-old?
A: Choose a basket that is sturdy enough to hold all the gifts, but not too large or heavy for the toddler to carry.