Have you noticed the frenzy on social media lately? Easter baskets have reached an outrageous level—seriously! Influencers are posting images of extravagant baskets overflowing with high-end gifts such as sneakers, jewelry, gift cards, gaming consoles, and gourmet sweets. These baskets are undeniably stunning, but when did Easter turn into a competition with Christmas?
I grew up in the 80s, and our Easter baskets consisted of a book, some plastic eggs filled with jelly beans, and a chocolate bunny. That was it! My parents probably spent around $10, and we were always delighted with our Easter loot. Fast forward forty years, and I still can’t wrap my head around why Easter is now being treated like a mini-Christmas.
Many of us dress up for church, take family photos, enjoy a festive dinner, and perhaps have an egg hunt or a visit from someone dressed as a rather creepy Easter bunny. There’s also the traditional egg dyeing, which fills the house with the scent of vinegar and boiled eggs.
Here’s a gentle reminder: You don’t need to buy your child a gaming system or a designer accessory. Your kid doesn’t have to receive gift cards, new earrings, or fancy chocolates.
This year, I also saw numerous Valentine’s and St. Patrick’s Day baskets online, overflowing with themed goodies. For Valentine’s Day, my kids each get a book and a chocolate treat. As for St. Patrick’s Day? I made Irish soda bread—does that count?
I have always cherished holidays, especially Christmas, where I go all out with cookies, music, decorations, and a four-gift rule. However, I won’t be coordinating my children’s Easter gifts for social media likes. It feels odd that such posts even get attention. They don’t reflect the reality for most families and seem more like bragging.
I want my kids to appreciate holidays for the experiences they bring, not just the gifts. Moreover, I recognize that many families can’t afford to go all out. Creating an extravagant Easter basket is a privilege.
Let’s bring back the simplicity of 1980s Easter celebrations. We can enjoy a nice dinner, wear pastel colors, and have an egg hunt where the eggs contain coins, stickers, or candy. Kids can then trade their goodies, much like Halloween!
Easter shouldn’t be an over-the-top holiday that competes with Christmas. Let’s leave that guilt behind.
Even if you can afford lavish baskets, why create that expectation? Why let kids think their holiday happiness depends on a basket overflowing with gifts? Instead, consider donating some of that extra money to a good cause, assembling baskets for those in need, or inviting others over for a socially distanced meal.
This year, especially as we navigate the pandemic, I’m grateful for this holiday. My children will receive a book, a small toy, and some candy. We’re looking forward to an egg hunt, which will certainly include some candy that my husband and I enjoy—bring on the Cadbury eggs!
Remember, money can’t buy happiness. If your kids’ Easter baskets resemble ours, give yourself a pat on the back. You’re doing great! You don’t have to feel like a failure if your kids don’t get a basket filled with expensive goodies. Holidays can be special without costing a fortune.
Now, more than ever, we should recognize that the pandemic has changed many financial situations, allowing us to focus on simple joys rather than material possessions.
If you’ve been inundated with extravagant Easter basket posts on social media, consider unfollowing those accounts. You don’t need that kind of pressure in your life. Provide your kids with a few thoughtful items and let them be happy knowing the Easter Bunny visited. Treat yourself to something tasty, and enjoy Easter for what it truly is, rather than feeling envious of others.
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Summary:
Easter baskets have become excessively extravagant, with many influencers showcasing lavish gifts for their children. This shift raises questions about why Easter is now treated like a competition with Christmas. The author reflects on simpler times, advocating for a return to modest celebrations focused on experiences rather than material gifts. Emphasizing the importance of enjoying the holiday while being mindful of financial constraints, the piece encourages parents to prioritize meaningful moments over the pressure to impress on social media.
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