Homemade Easter gifts and craft activities

A homemade Easter gift can invite someone to make something with you or give them a small finished keepsake. Choose the project around the recipient, materials on hand and whether children will join. Keep food and craft pieces separate, and let caregivers choose activities for young children.

Make a card or puppet kit

Fold sturdy paper into a card and write a personal greeting; a drawing or pressed-paper shape can decorate the front. For a puppet kit, put paper bags, large cut paper shapes, safe adhesive and instructions in a box. Prepare any cutting that young children cannot do safely, and avoid loose small parts for children who may mouth them.

Sources: CPSC: toy age guidance and removing packaging

Offer a craft session or treasure box

A bead or necklace activity can be enjoyable for adults or older children who can handle small pieces; check ages and preferences first. A treasure box can hold photos, notes or a simple map to a family egg hunt. Use larger, age-appropriate items for younger children instead of marbles, coins or tiny costume jewelry.

Sources: CPSC: toy age guidance and removing packaging

Handle decorated eggs as food only when appropriate

If dyed eggs will be eaten, use food-grade dye and keep hard-cooked eggs refrigerated until serving. FoodSafety.gov advises separating eggs used for display or hiding from those intended to eat, and not leaving eggs out for more than two hours. A paper egg or reusable decorative egg avoids food handling entirely.

Sources: FoodSafety.gov: Food Safety Tips for Passover and Easter