As a little girl, I remember that a birthday party just wasn’t complete without a little party bag to give out to each guest. The goody bags weren’t necessarily extravagant, but they were fun to put together and to pass out at the end of the party to say “thank you” for coming. My friends would eagerly open their baggies to reveal toys, candies, and other knick-knacks.
As a parent, I like the idea of favors for guests, but my thoughts about the contents of the bags has changed. I’m not a big fan of baggies with cheap candies, little trinkets (erasers, plastic rings, etc.), and assembly line toys from the party favor aisle. Instead, I’d prefer if the favors were more creative – healthier – and more practical.
Looking for ideas for filling goody bags for your next party?
Try:
Play Doh : Add one tub to every bag to delight the tiny sculptors in the crowd. This favor is easy on the wallet too – you can get 50 1-ounce cans for $12.99 or 24 3-ounce cans for $10.99.
Box of Crayons : Can a child have too many crayons? Probably. But new crayons are always a special delight.
Toothbrush : They come in fun colors…and the American Dental Association recommends that kids change out their toothbrushes at least every 3 months. A new brush will be appreciated by the child – and his/her parent.
Fruit Snacks or Individual Bags of Goldfish: A healthier alternative to candy and kids will appreciate the treat just as much.
Or consider giving just one “bigger-ticket” item:
A Jumprope : Encourage exercise and outdoor play with this kid-approved favor.
Certificate for a FREE Kids Ice Cream Cone at a local ice cream parlor : To be used at the discretion of the parent.
Hair Clips by Moo G : Pretty little clips and snaps that stay put. Individually wrapped in clear packaging. These clips are absolutely gorgeous and each clip is handmade by the owner of the company (a mom) to ensure high-quality. There are numerous designs to choose from and most of the clips (or pairs of clips) retail for $4-5.Or don’t give favors at all.
As I was doing “research” for this piece, I was surprised to find that many parents have rather strong feelings about party bags…and apparently there can be quite a bit of pressure to give them out. I actually like the idea of favors, but I also don’t think they’re necessary. If you don’t like it, skip it.
YOUR TURN: How do you feel about “goody bags”? Do you love ‘em or hate ‘em? What creative ideas do you have for filling them?
