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Have you noticed the Easter basket madness taking over social media this week? It’s like we’ve reached a new level of extravagant. Influencers are showcasing their children’s massive baskets overflowing with pricey gifts—think designer sneakers, jewelry, gift cards, gaming consoles, and gourmet sweets. While these baskets look amazing, I can’t help but wonder when Easter became a competition with Christmas.
Back in the eighties, my own Easter baskets were simple affairs. They included a book, plastic eggs filled with jelly beans, and a chocolate bunny. The total cost was maybe $10, and each year, we were genuinely delighted with our haul. Fast forward to today, and I’m baffled as to why Easter has morphed into a holiday that seems to rival Christmas morning.
Many of us dress up for church in our pastel outfits, snapping family photos along the way. We enjoy a festive dinner and a visit from the Easter bunny, along with an egg hunt or a visit from someone dressed in a rather creepy bunny suit. Let’s not forget the classic egg-dyeing session, which fills the house with the unmistakable smell of vinegar and eggs.
Here’s the reality check: you aren’t required to gift your child a gaming system or even a video game. They don’t need that designer belt or handbag, nor do you have to buy them gift cards, sparkly earrings, or cash. And there’s no obligation to present them with the finest chocolates available.
This year, I also spotted plenty of Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day baskets online, each overflowing with themed goodies. For Valentine’s Day, my kids only receive a book and a marshmallow chocolate. As for St. Patrick’s Day? I made some Irish soda bread, which I guess is something.
I cherish holidays and go all out for Christmas with cookies, music, decorations, and the four-gift rule for presents. However, I won’t be coordinating my children’s gifts for social media clout. It’s odd how these photos garner likes when they don’t reflect the reality for most families; they come off as little more than a bragging opportunity. No, thank you.
I want my children to appreciate holidays for the experiences they provide, not just the gifts they collect. I also recognize that many families can’t afford to create an extravagant holiday experience, and the ability to do so is a privilege.
I long for a return to the uncomplicated Easter traditions of the 1980s. Let’s enjoy a nice ham dinner, wear pastel colors, and have a backyard egg hunt after church. The eggs can hold coins, stickers, and candy, and the kids can trade their finds like they did on Halloween. Oh, the excitement of that candy trade!
Easter doesn’t need to compete with Christmas, and there’s no reason to feel guilty about it. Even if you have the means to put together an elaborate basket, why do it? Why let children think their holiday happiness hinges on receiving a basket so heavy it could double as a weightlifting challenge? Instead, consider using that extra money to support those in need, contribute to a worthy cause, or host a socially-distanced meal for friends and family.
I’m grateful for this spring holiday, especially as we continue to navigate the pandemic. However, my kids will not be inundated with extravagant gifts. True to my parents’ tradition, I’ll give them a book, a small toy, and, of course, something sweet. We eagerly await our egg hunt, which will surely include some of the Easter treats my husband and I enjoy. Bring on the Cadbury eggs!
Ultimately, money can’t buy happiness, and if your kids’ Easter baskets look like mine, give yourself a pat on the back. You’re doing a great job, and your children don’t need a mountain of goodies to feel loved and celebrated. You can make this holiday special without overspending.
With the ongoing pandemic affecting many families’ finances, we have the opportunity to focus on what truly matters: joy in simple moments, rather than material possessions. If your feed is filled with extravagant Easter basket posts, consider unfollowing those accounts. You don’t need that kind of privileged negativity in your life. Treat your kids to a few thoughtful items and let them enjoy the magic of Easter, while you savor a treat for yourself and find joy in the holiday.
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