Are you planning a party for your little one? It’s not just about the cake and decorations, the thank-you bags are a crucial element too. Forget the standard candies and cheap toys — here are creative goodie bag ideas that kids will love and parents will appreciate.
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In the world of goodie bags, it often feels like a treasure hunt gone wrong. More often than not, these little packages are bursting at the seams with cheap plastic trinkets destined to break after a single use.
And then there is also sugary candy that parents wish never made its way into their homes. It’s like a conspiracy against sanity, where the joy of the moment fades faster than a quick sugar rush. So maybe it’s time to redefine the goodie bag game, where the treasures within are not just fleeting indulgences but lasting delights that leave smiles, not sticky fingers, in their wake.
Things to consider when putting together goodie bags
When assembling the perfect goodie bag, think of something small but useful. Do remember, though, that this is for kids still so nothing boring that won’t bring any excitement to the little ones. Here are some other things to consider.
- Event theme: Whether it’s a big birthday bash or a chill sleepover, let the theme set the vibe and match the goodies to the mood.
- Budget: Keep it real with your wallet. Goodie bags can be awesome without breaking the bank.
- Age: Tiny tots to trendy tweens — consider the age and keep it engaging.
- Gender: Is it a girls-only gathering or a boys’ brigade? Sparkles and tiaras or superhero gear — hit the right notes for your crew.
‘‘We’ve raised three boys and have hosted a lot of kid’s parties. Some of our favorite items to give kids in treat bags are stickers or tattoos, gum, balsa wood airplane kits, pens with different colored inks in the same pen and small notebooks for drawing or writing. These items don’t clutter up kids’ rooms. They actually get used, and parents don’t mind seeing them come home with party attendees.”
— Laura Sampson, Little House Big Alaska
10 creative goodie bag ideas for kids
Here is a carefully curated list of some cool ideas for your next goodie bags that go beyond the ordinary. These creative suggestions promise to add an extra layer of excitement and uniqueness to your next celebration.
1. Mini science experiment kits
Include simple experiments like making slime, a volcano eruption or a rainbow in a jar. Add all the necessary materials and instructions, turning the goodie bag into a mini laboratory for curious minds.
2. Mini chef aprons
Provide mini chef aprons along with a simple recipe for a no-bake cake. The joy of creating and indulging in their own homemade treat will surely be a hit.
3. Seedling starter packs
Nurture a love for nature by gifting each child a seedling starter pack. Include a small pot, a bag of soil and a packet of seeds. Attach a cheerful note with simple instructions on how to grow their very own plant. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, fostering responsibility and a connection with the environment.
4. Puzzle blocks
These little puzzle blocks are the best boredom-busters for on-the-go moments. The pack is small enough to fit in any purse, so I always have it with me. Both of my kids love to play with little blocks when we are waiting for our meal at restaurants, in a doctor’s office or during long car drives.
5. Rock painting kits
Unleash the kids’ inner artists with rock painting kits. Provide smooth rocks, paint and brushes for the kids to transform ordinary rocks into vibrant, hand-painted creations. It’s a nature-inspired and artistic gift.
6. Homemade playdough jars
Skip the store-bought and opt for homemade playdough jars. Include small containers of various colored playdough along with cookie cutters for endless molding and shaping fun. It’s a sensory and creative delight.
‘‘Our girls are now 5 and 7. In party bags, we most enjoy giving and getting fun or practical things like fancy pens and small notebooks, play-doh, balloons, bouncy balls, juice boxes and healthy-ish treats. Any small craft activities are also a winner. On the other hand, we’re always disappointed by cheap plastic knick-knacks that quickly break and are then useless.”
— Naomi Morris, Our Kiwi Homeschool
7. Customizable tote bags
Send the kids home with a practical and stylish gift by including customizable tote bags. When we had an all-girls event at my daughter’s school, they loved these tote bags. I provided plain canvas bags along with fabric markers and stencils, allowing the kids to unleash their creativity. It’s a functional gift that makes every outing an opportunity to showcase their artistic touch.
8. DIY birdhouse kits
Encourage a love for nature with DIY birdhouse kits. Provide small wooden birdhouses, paint and brushes, allowing the kids to create charming homes for their feathered friends. My son received a small birdhouse kit at a recent birthday party, and it was one of the best goodie bag ideas. He took the job of decorating the house with big responsibility and then hung it in our backyard. He is now eagerly waiting for a little bird to make it its home.
9. Stainless steel straws with a carry pouch
Teach kids about reducing waste by saying goodbye to plastic straws. Include reusable stainless steel straws with a convenient carry pouch in their goodie bags. These durable, reusable straws are not only functional but also easy to clean. The carry pouch ensures they can be taken anywhere, reducing the need for disposable options.
10. Customizable watercolor bookmarks
Mark the celebration with customizable watercolor bookmarks. Provide blank bookmarks and watercolor sets for the kids to paint their unique designs. It’s a practical and artsy keepsake for their favorite books.
One last thing
So there you have it — 10 unique and creative goodie bag ideas for kids. These goodies aren’t just treats, they’re tiny wonders that keep the party vibe going long after the cake is gone. Because in the world of kids’ celebrations, even the little things can make the biggest impression.
Tamara is a blogger at Thriving In Parenting, where she shares simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor ideas, self-care for moms and all things parenting.