Receiving a handmade mother’s day card is the bees-knees! These Mother’s Day Nature Coloring Cards are TOADally cute and perfect for little hands to color in and make for their mamas, moms and mothers.

What does this Mother’s Day nature card printable include?

• Four (4) different hand-drawn designs.
• Each designs comes with a cute saying.
• Two options for each card using the words: “Mom” and “Mama”.
• Landscape foldable cards (write a personalized message inside!)

How do I get this Mother’s Day nature card printable?

Sign-up for my newsletter and get it free! Or purchase this printable on TpT.

Can I share this Mother’s Day nature card printable with my friends?

I love that you want to share this printable with your friends – that means the world to me! However, this printable is meant for personal use, for classroom and/or forest preschool/school. Please encourage your friend to get their own copy by signing up for my newsletter or getting it from TpT. Thank you so much!

Sign up for my wildly wonderful monthly newsletter and get this Spring Nature Scavenger Hunt PDF download link delivered right in your inbox. The PDF includes both the colour and the black and white printables below.

Spring Scavenger Hunt Printables

Sign up for my wildly wonderful monthly newsletter and get this Earth Day Nature Scavenger Hunt PDF printable right in your inbox. The PDF includes both the colour and the black and white printables below.

Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd each year. It’s a day to discover the beauty of our blue and green planet and take steps towards caring for our universal home. Earth Day is a great opportunity to help children reflect, reset and reconnect with nature, whether that’s as a family, classroom or community (or all three!) and this article will give you some ideas of how to go about that.

There are plenty of articles with HUGE lists of Earth Day activities for kids, but this article is different. All the activities in the article have a single focus: to help children connect with nature. Why is that important? The more connected kids are to the Earth (nature, outdoors), the more they want to care for it (more about that below). What’s important remember is that forming this connection isn’t about learning facts about plants and animals or learning about climate crises. It’s about spending time outside in nearby nature.

Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon Affiliates links and I may earn a small commission from your purchases made through them. 

What is Earth Day?

The very first Earth Day took place in the spring of 1970, more than fifty years ago! At that time there were no laws stopping people from polluting the air, water and earth in the US, so a man named Senator Gaylord Nelson started Earth Day and twenty million people across the USA join in. By December 1970, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency was started.

Why connect kids with nature?

There are many reasons and benefits to connect children with nature. Not only does time outdoors and in nature provide children a host of benefits, improving their health and wellbeing, even helping them do better in school, but when kids connect with nature it also helps the Earth! Kids that feel connected to nature see nature as their “friend” and they want to care for it, to love it.

How to connect kids with nature?

For kids to feel connected to nature they need to “know” nature, but not in the way most adults think. Most adults think kids get to know nature by “learning the about nature” – the names of animals, the water cycle, the layers of the atmosphere – but this isn’t the type of knowing that kids need. Kids need to “know” nature the way they would make a new friend – spending time together! Kids don’t need to know all the specific details about a new friend to begin a relationship, they just need time together, and lots of it. The same goes with connecting kids with nature. To help children connect with nature they need to spend lots of time with in nature – touching, smelling, observing, creating and playing in it!

Earth Day Activities that Connect Kids with Nature

Celebrating Earth Day is best done – outside! Below I’ve listed some of my favourite activities for celebrating the Earth Day with kids while also connecting children with nature.

Do an Earth Day nature scavenger hunt

Go explore nature with this Earth Day Nature Scavenger Hunt that I created just for you.

Make land art

Earth without art is… “eh”, so time to get artistic outside! Land art occurs in and with nature. It can be simple nature mandala or a complex rock design. Not sure what to create? Get inspired by looking at what other land artist make, like the well known land artist James Brunt.

Toss seed bombs

Make some seed bombs (balls) out of clay and wildflowers seeds (native plants to your area) and share them with friend, plant them in nearby nature or toss them into a pot.

Get grounded

Free the feet! Go on a sensory walk outside without shoes. Splash in a puddle, skip over grass, squish mud – get crazy! Just do a quick look for any dangerous items (glass, thorns, sharps) that could injure feet before setting out.

Go plogging outdoors

Plogging is a combination of jogging and picking up trash! The term was invented in 2016 by an outdoorsy Swede named Erik Ahlström that wanted to encourage people to pick it up litter while taking their daily run. Plogging might be a great activity for older kids (PE class) or for families to do together. If jogging isn’t in the books, then what about skipping, hopping, or strolling.

Plant a tree together

Planting a tree has become a quintessential Earth Day activity. Tree are amazing plants. They convert carbon dioxide to oxygen. They trap water into the soil. They keep the earth cool. They provide food and shelter. They help us stay healthy and happy! So many good things. If your family has space to plant a tree and the funds to do so, then plant a tree! If you don’t, see if you community has an Earth Day tree planting event (many do!). Kids can get hands on experiences planting trees at these types of events. Another option is to plant a small tree (miniature or dwarf) in your home like a Norfolk Island Pine. Check your local plant nursery for a small indoor tree to plant with your child.

Go on a bike ride

Earth Day is a great time to tune up those bikes! Biking is great Earth-friendly way to get from one place to another, even for kids. Try biking to school with your children or going for a family bike ride together.

Make bird seed ornaments

Do a little something for the birds on Earth Day by making and hanging bird seed ornaments outside. These are many bird seed ornament recipes out there. Check out mine below.

Grow a garden

No matter where you live, even in an apartment or classroom, you can grow a garden with kids. Grow a cherry tomato in a pot on a sunny balcony. Grow mint, basil or parsley on a windowsill. Grow a strawberry plant in a hanging basket. There are so many creative ways to grow flowers, vegetables and fruit in small spaces.

Start composting

Composting is when organic materials get converted into soil. Home composting or school composting can reduce the amount of trash that goes to the landfill, and put nutrients back into the soil to grow more nutritious food. There are several ways to compost at home with different backyard composters, vermicomposters or electric food recyclers. and some helpful instructions from the USEPA for Composting At Home.

Notice three good things in nature

Enjoy a stroll outside and notice three good things nearby nature with your child. Nature is all around us, even in busy city, and can surprise and delight our children. As adult we tend to downplay the nature in cities, but kids don’t need to hike up a mountain to connect with and appreciate nature. They love dandelions growing in the cracks in the sidewalk, moss clinging to the north sides of buildings and creeping vines crawling up buildings. Noticing small things in nature nearby can bring a sense of joy and gratitude for the planet we live on, no matter where we live.

Go pond dipping

Discover the wonderful world of pond minibeast with your child or your classroom.

Eat something locally grown

Visit a local farmers market, farm or grocery store and look for locally grown seasonal food. At this time of year fresh asparagus, peas, spinach and strawberries are beginning to make their way from farms to tables.

Go watch birds

Birds are fascinating animals and watching them can be so fun! All kids need to watch birds is to get outside to look and listen for birds in nearby nature. No need for fancy binoculars!

Create a nature journal

Help kids get close to nature by giving them a journal to record their observations – no artistic talent needed! Nature journaling is the recording of what kids see in nature in a journal using pictures, words and/or numbers. To get started with nature journaling get an art journal, a pencil and some easy-to-carry water colour paints. I’ve included some great books for to help you and your child or classroom learn how to start a nature journal.

The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing and Journaling by John Muir Laws (Author)

In straightforward text complemented by step-by-step illustrations, dozens of exercises lead the hand and mind through creating accurate reproductions of plants and animals as well as landscapes, skies, and more. Laws provides clear, practical advice for every step of the process for artists at every level, from the basics of choosing supplies to advanced techniques. (from Amazon)

How to Teach Nature Journaling: Curiosity, Wonder, Attention by John Muir Laws (Author), Emilie Lygren (Author)

This book, expanding on the philosophy and methods of The Laws Guide to Nature Drawing and Journaling puts together curriculum plans, advice, and in-the-field experience so that educators of all stripes can leap into journaling with their students. The approaches are designed to work in a range of ecosystems and settings, and are suitable for classroom teachers, outdoor educators, camp counselors, and homeschooling parents. (from Amazon)

Watercolor in Nature: Paint Woodland Wildlife and Botanicals with 20 Beginner-Friendly Projects by Rosalie Haizlett (Author)

Step-by-step instruction on how to paint 20 realistic insects, fungi, birds, botanicals and mammals in her vibrant wet- on-dry watercolor style. (from Amazon)

365 Days of Art in Nature: Find Inspiration Every Day in the Natural World by Lorna Scobie (Illustrator)

Observe the slow, constant pace of the nature that surrounds you every day, and use it to inspire you in your art and creativity. Activities may include visiting a particular tree four times in the year and drawing it. How has it changed? Study the colors you find in autumn leaves. Explore drawing them in different materials. (from Amazon)

Sources

EPA History: Earth Day https://www.epa.gov/history/epa-history-earth-day

We’re In Step With ‘Plogging’ https://www.merriam-webster.com/wordplay/origin-and-meaning-of-plogging

Mud. Ooey gooey squishy goop that forms when dirt and water mix together. Mud has a magnetic force on children. It beckons them to scoop and slide their way into a magical and messy world of play. Books about mud are fun too, and that’s what this post is all about! Below is a list of my favourite MUDelicious books for kids.

Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon Affiliates links and I may earn a small commission from your purchases made through them. 

All You Need Is Mud by Cam Higgins 

This easy-to-read chapter book is about a puppy named Bo Davis and his muddy adventures with his friend pig. Book ten of the Good Dog series.

Ages 5 to 9

Dirt + Water = Mud by Katherine Hannigan 

A young girl and her dog play in a mud puddle together. A simple story about imaginary play told in equations!

Ages 4 to 7

Mud! by Annie Bailey

A story about playing in the mud that’s filled with muddy onomatopoeias and mud-delicious ideas for playing in the mud.

Ages 3 to 5

Mud by Mary Lyn Ray 

A beautifully illustrated lyrical story about melting snow, unfrozen earth and happy mud!

Age 4 to 7

Mud Book: How to Make Pies and Cakes by John Cage 

A simple illustrated instructions for making a mud pies and cakes.

Age 3 to 5

Mud Cake: Backyard Birthday by Valjean McCray 

Kim and Fredy work together to make a very special birthday cake.

Mud Kitchen Crafts: 60 Awesome Ideas for Epic Outdoor Play by Sophie Pickles 

This book is packed with fun mud kitchen activities for kids to try at home.

Ages 2 to 7

Mud Puddle by Robert Munsch 

Jule Ann keeps on getting jumped on by mud puddles hiding in the strangest places: in an apple tree, on top of the house, from behind the dog house and over the fence. A silly muddy story by much loved author Robert Munsch.

Ages 4 to 8

Mud Tacos! by Mario Lopez and Marissa Lopez Wong

Mario and Marissa make wormy, squirmy mud tacos together, but all those mud tacos make them hungry the real thing. A sweet story about imaginary play, cooking and family. You can listen to Mario Lopez read the book here.

Ages 3 to 5

My Mud Kitchen is Rad by Allison Bakkum 

It’s raining outside and that means there’s nothing to do! But when one child encourages the other to come outside they have lots of fun playing in their mud kitchen.

The Piggy in the Puddle by Charlotte Pomerantz and James Marshall 

Originally published in 1989, this sweet story about a piggy in a puddle is such a delightful read.

Ages 1 to 6

Stuck in the Mud by Miss Sally-Anne Peek (NEW 2023!)

Young Eleanor gets stuck in the mud and needs a helping hand. Who will come help her?

Stuck in the Mud by Jane Clarke 

Hen wakes up to find one of her chicks stuck in the mud. Hen tries to free her chick but gets stuck too! One by one the farm animals and farmer try to lend a hand but they each get stuck. Read on to find out the funny and unexpected ending to this silly story.

Ages 1 to 4

The Amazing Mud Cake by Elizabeth Reid 

A rhyming story about a child that makes an amazing mud cake for Baby, Gramps and Mummy. Sweet illustrations and simple sentences make this a perfect book for little ones.

Ages 2 to 5

The Mud Pony by Caron Lee Cohen and Shonto Begay

Originally published in 1988, this story is a retelling of a Native American tale. A poor young boy wants a pony of his own, so he shapes one out of mud. Tragically the boy is left behind when camp breaks, but the mud pony comes to life and protects the young boy.

Ages 4 to 8

The Muddy Chef by Penny Whitehouse and Emma Bear

Written by Penny Whitehouse from Mother Natured and Emma Bear from Birch and Bear, this mud-delicious book is perfect companion for mud kitchen adventures.

When my kids complain that they’re “sooooo boooored”, it’s like hearing someone scrape their nails across a chalkboard. I want to curl up and hold my hands over my ears and beg – please stop! I’m tempted to reach for an electronic device or recite a litany of ideas to chase my child’s boredom away. Instead, I take a deep breath, brace myself, and courageously say “well my friend, I look forward to seeing what you get up to!”. That’s when the magic begins!

Boredom is uncomfortable for children, and by extension their parents, but it isn’t a bad thing. Letting children get bored every now and again can actually be good for kids and help them grow and develop in positive ways.

This article is all about boredom and answers the questions: What is boredom? Why do kids get bored? Is boredom bad? Why is boredom good? and How should parents respond to kids when they are bored?

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Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon Affiliates links and I may earn a small commission from your purchases made through them. 

What is boredom?

Boredom is an emotion. One that doesn’t get that much attention compared to anger or happiness, but it’s just as important. It is defined as “a state of mind characterized by a lack of interest, stimulation, or challenge” and it happens to everyone, even more so for kids¹. Some people compare boredom to pain, because it’s an uncomfortable feeling. It’s the brain saying, “something is wrong – help!”. If your child is feeling bored chances are she is grumpy and frustrated. These feelings are important and normal! There’s nothing wrong with your child if they experience boredom.

Boredom is really important because it signals instances to us when we’re not meaningfully engaged in the world, and it gives us an opportunity to fix it.

Speaking of Psychology: Why boredom is surprisingly interesting, with Erin Westgate, PhD

Why do kids get bored?

If it feels like your child gets bored a lot, that’s normal. Children are more likely to get bored because their brains are still developing and they are more restricted by what they can and cannot do.

Kids can get bored because:

• They are faced with a task or activity that is too easy or too challenging.
• They have a difficult time paying attention to a task or activity.
• They don’t find value or meaning is a task or activity.

We get bored when we are not able to pay attention or cannot find meaning in what we are doing.

Why Boredom Is Interesting

Is boredom bad?

The short answer: No, but sometimes yes. Boredom isn’t a great feeling but its a normal experience, and especially for kids. Boredom, like anger, isn’t bad in itself, but the way kids act on those feelings can be good or not great. While feeling bored won’t hurt your child but sometimes boredom can make kids do impulsive things. I have seen my share of destroyed toys and items at the hands of my firstborn over the last decade. He wasn’t being bad. He was bored and curious and it occasional led to trouble. One time, when my son was young, he dismantled his cousin’s corn popper toy, and that was a disaster in more ways than one!

Four reasons why boredom is good for you child

The reason why I let my kids experience boredom is that it gives them opportunities for growth and development, especially when boredom is managed and acted upon in a positive way. Here are four reasons why boredom is great for kids.

Boredom helps your child regulate emotions

Life is full of difficult and frustrating moments and learning how to cope with them is an important skill to learn. Allowing your child to work through feeling bored can help them learn how to manage difficult feelings.

Boredom spurs creativity and problem-solving skills

Boredom gives children space to use their creativity, imagination and problem-solving skills. At the age a twelve, during a family reunion, I remember complaining to my father that I was bored. He told me, quite frankly, that I had to figure it out on my own, so I did. My cousins and I scoured around and found Styrofoam insulation, wooden planks, a hammer and nails and built a raft that we floated down the nearby waterway. We had so much fun, and all because we were bored.

Boredom boosts self-esteem

Children that learn how to manage their feelings of boredom, feel more confident about themselves and their abilities to cope with situations. As parents we want to keep our children safe from all the negative emotions, but learning how to manage challenging feelings is an important part of growth and learning. In the same way parents provide space and support to help their children manage emotions like anger, the same holds true for boredom.

How to respond when your child is bored

When kids say they’re “soooo booored” parents either jump into action to banish boredom away (often with screens) or they discount their child’s struggle. I’m guilty of doing both, especially the second approach since that’s how I was raised. However, there’s another approach. One that allows your child to embrace the benefits of boredom while supporting them in that experience. This approach requires two things from parents: 1) To be excited about boredom and 2) To be proactive about boredom.

Be excited about boredom

Be excited about boredom? Yes! Instead of cringing when your child complains he’s bored, be excited! Boredom is an invitation to learn and grow in marvelous ways. See boredom as an opportunity, instead of a burden, requires a mindset shift, and it has to start with you, the parent. Here are a couple thing you can say to show your child that boredom can be exciting:

• “Great! I can’t wait to see what you will get up to”
• “That’s exciting! What are you going to do about it?”
• “Boredom can feel hard, but I’m excited to see what you do with it!”

Whatever you chose to say, be authentic and empathetic. Yes, boredom doesn’t feel good (acknowledge that!) but it can lead to good things.

Be proactive about boredom

Often children (and parents) turn to screens to get rid of boredom, but by doing this it takes away any of the benefits boredom has to offer. Before boredom set in, be proactive, take some time with your child to brainstorm screen-free activities he can do if he’s feeling bored. Make a list, using words or images, and put it somewhere your child can see. Gather any supplies your child might need for these activites, loose parts are great too, and place them somewhere accessible. When you child announces that she’s bored, encourage her to have a look at the list you created together and pick something off the list.

If you’re children doesn’t want to do anything with their boredom scroll down for how to manage this situation.

Another suggestion, have a few activity books for your child to peruse when bored.

1000 Hours Outside: Activities to Match Screen Time with Green Time by Ginny Yurich (Author)

“A collection of games, crafts, and activities, organized by season to help you find something you can do every day/” 

101 Things For Kids To Do Outside by Dawn Isaac

“101 Things For Kids To Do Outside is ideal for parents, teachers, and all those working with youth. This book is ideal for the children who like gaming, TV, movies, the soft couch, and even too many snacks. The kids who believe “there’s nothing to do outside” can learn and be encouraged to experience the joy of outdoor play.”

150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids: The Very Best and Easiest Playtime Activities by Asia Citro (Author)

“These fun activities help develop your child’s creativity and skills–all without a screen in sight. Featuring step-by-step instructions and beautiful photographs, each budget-friendly project will keep your child entertained, engaged, and learning all day long.”

Awesome Science Experiments for Kids: 100+ Fun STEM / STEAM Projects and Why They Work by Crystal Chatterton (Author)

“With awesome projects like a Fizzy Rocket, Magnet-Powered Car, and Pencil Sundial, kids will have a blast learning to build, design, and think critically—while getting inspired to interact with the world around them and make their own discoveries.”

Part of the Awesome STEAM Activities for Kids series.

Catch a Crayfish, Count the Stars: Fun Projects, Skills, and Adventures for Outdoor Kids by Steven Rinella (Author), Max Temescu (Illustrator)

“Filled with advice, insights, and activities to inspire wonder and excitement about the natural world, Catch a Crayfish, Count the Stars is a curious kid’s treasure trove, filled to the brim with outdoor projects, skills, and adventures complete with illustrations.”

Exploring Nature Activity Book for Kids: 50 Creative Projects to Spark Curiosity in the Outdoors by Kim Andrews (Author)

“Track, explore, discover, and create! This incredible choice in nature books for kids is full of activities you can bring on your adventures through your backyard, the park, the woods, and beyond. “

The Ultimate Book of Scavenger Hunts: 42 Outdoor Adventures to Conquer with Your Family by Stacy Tornio (Author)

“Give kids a list of things to find, and they naturally want to turn it into a game and start checking things off. Add in an outdoor and nature twist, and the game is elevated to a whole new level—and what an amazing opportunity to engage kids and families with nature in a whole new way.”

The Big Book of Kids Activities: 500 Projects That Are the Bestest, Funnest Ever by Holly Homer (Author) et al.

“Never again will you hear the all-too-common call of, “I’m bored!” Whether you’re making glow-in-the-dark slime, launching rocket ships, conducting backyard science experiments or playing Family Four Square, there are super fun activities for children aged 3 to 12.”

The Unplugged Family Activity Book: 60+ Simple Crafts and Recipes for Year-Round Fun by Rachel Jepson Wolf (Author)

Kid-approved ideas that celebrate the great outdoors year round! 

Ages: 8 to 12

What if your child refuses to pick an activity?

Sometimes kids balk at every idea or suggestion throw their way. Maybe your child is hungry or tired, or perhaps they are trying to get your attention. When this happens, asses the situation and try these approaches:

• Encourage your child to have a rest or a healthy snack if needed.
• Send you child outside!
• Have your child do an age-appropriate chore.
• Give your child two activity choices, and pick one if they refuse to pick.
• Have your child write in a mindset or gratitude journal like the Big Life Journal, Happy Confident Me or The 3 Minute Gratitude Journal for Kids.

What do you do when your child is bored? Share your tips and trick with us!

1. Ndetei DM, Nyamai P, Mutiso V. Boredom-understanding the emotion and its impact on our lives: an African perspective. Front Sociol. 2023 Jun 29;8:1213190. doi: 10.3389/fsoc.2023.1213190. PMID: 37456271; PMCID: PMC10342197.
2. Westgate, E. C. (2020). Why Boredom Is Interesting. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 29(1), 33-40. https://doi.org/10.1177/0963721419884309

Easter is a joyful celebration a new life that takes place on the first Sunday after the Paschal full moon, the full moon on or after the spring equinox. This means that Easter is a moving holiday and can take place anytime between March 22nd and April 25th, the first month of spring! While there are many fun traditions for celebrating Easter, spending some time outdoors to notice spring flowers painting the ground in yellows, purples and pinks, birds building nests for their eggs and trees setting out their fresh new leaves can amplify the joy of this holiday. Enjoying some outdoor activities on Easter also give your families and kids time slow down and celebrate the gift of new beginnings together.

In this article I’m going to share with you a list of ten outdoor activities you can do with your children and family to celebrate Easter.

10 Outdoor Easter Activities for Kids and Families

1. Go on an Easter nature walk

Head into nearby nature to soak in some spring sunshine or splash in puddles. Explore a trail close to home or head to a park and wander in nature. Don’t worry about how far you get or even how long you spend outside, instead simply slow down and notice nature with your family. If you aren’t sure what to do or what to look for, use my signs of spring printable as a guide.

Easter Nature Walk Tips

• Nature is all around you no matter where you live. Yes, even in bustling cities you can find nature. Look for nature at a nearby park, trail or around your neighbourhood. Notice the trees, plants growing along sidewalks or vines creeping up buildings.
• Follow your child’s lead. Observe nature through the eyes of your child. I promise that a whole new world will open before your eyes.
• Let you child get dirty! Let your child dig in the dirt, get stuck in mud and splash in puddles. If you want to protect your child’s clothing get some waterproof outer layers like this rain gear from Reima or this waterproof raingear from Jan & Jul.
• Give your child permission to collect sticks, rocks, shells and even flowers where it is appropriate.
• Slow down and be present. Put your phone into airplane mode and tuck it away.

2. Do an Easter nature scavenger hunt

Print off this free Easter Nature Scavenger Hunt and see how many things you can find in nearby nature on Easter day!

3. Visit a botanical or ornamental garden

Delight in the beauty of spring blooms by taking your family to a botanical or ornamental garden in your community. Get up close with the bloom and breath in their fragrant scents. If your family likes to take Easter photos this would be a perfect opportunity to do it.

4. Get close to animals at a local petting farm

Visit a local farm or petting zoo to get close to animals. Spring time on the farm is exciting. Baby animals are being born, crops are being planted and fruit trees are in bloom. Some local farms even put on special Easter events for families and children.

5. Participate in a community Easter egg hunt

Many community organizations and local churches host outdoor Easter egg hunts that are free to participate in. A quick Internet search should point you in the right direction. Participating in a community Easter egg hunt is a great way to get your kids outside and running around with other children.

6. Make an Easter nature craft

My family loves making on the weekend of Easter and we try to make crafts that are earth-friendly. What that means is we try to avoid crafts that use plastic and opt for materials that can be recycled, composted or returned to the earth. There are many wonderful and beautiful crafts that can made from eggs, clay, wool, sticks and more. Here are some suggestions:

• Make nature printed Easter eggs using onion skins.
• Try out these nature printed clay Easter egg ornaments.
• Play with wool and make wet felted spring eggs.
• Weave a bird nest out of natural materials.
• Dye eggs with natural materials.
• Paint wooden Easter eggs.
• Make pretty pressed flower eggs.
• Mold air-dry clay birds nests.

7. Enjoy an Easter picnic at the park

Pack up a lunch or some special snacks and head to a local park for an Easter picnic. Easter picnics are a popular activity for families in different parts of the world, like Italy where they bring along soccer balls to play with and Pastiera di Grana (Italian Easter pie) to eat. Here are some Easter picnic ideas if you’re looking for some inspiration:

• Build your own scones and serve them with homemade strawberry rhubarb freezer jam.
• Make an easy pasta salad.
• Put together a spring charcuterie board.

8. Compete in an egg race

Have some fun with running around with eggs by doing a family egg race. For a traditional egg race, players have to place a hard boiled egg on a spoon and walk or run a distance without dropping the egg. If the egg is dropped the player has to restart from the beginning or gets eliminated. To make an egg race more challenging for older kids or adults, hold the spoon handle between lips. To make this race easier for younger children, use a large spoon or hold the egg in hands instead.

9. Try egg lawn rolling or bowling

Dye or decorate hard boil eggs or wooden eggs so that each player has their own distinctive egg. Place a marker on the lawn. This market could be a stuffed bunny, chocolate bunny or white egg. Have all players stand the same distance away from the marker and take turns rolling the egg towards the marker. The player that gets the closest to the marker wins!

10. Attend an Easter parade

Get outside and celebrate Easter by attending a community Easter parade. Easter parades are quite popular in the United States but not as popular in Canada. To find the closest parade near you, a quick Internet search should do the trick.

More Easter posts you might like:

More Easter posts you might like:

The tradition of Easter baskets has been woven throughout time as an important part of spring celebrations. For much of history Easter baskets were filled with items like eggs, bread, butter, beeswax candles, plants, and meat. Modern Easter baskets, however, look quite a bit different. A typical Easter basket these days might have plastic eggs, chocolate bunnies, and plastic grass and these things are not great for our planet. However, by changing up of few items in Easter baskets we can make Easter more earth-friendly and just as, if not more, special for our children.

In this article I will be sharing eco-friendly Easter basket ideas that help children connect with the natural world and respect the planet.

Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon Affiliates links as well as affiliate links for Stanley, Jan & Jul, Reima, Bella Luna Toys and I may earn a small commission from your purchases made through them.

Get eco-friendly baskets

An eco-friendly Easter basket begins with the basket! If Easter baskets are a regular part of your family Easter traditions, and you want to buy new ones, consider getting baskets that are ethically-sourced and fair-trade. Ideally, find baskets that you can reuse for many years and can even be passed down to other children. You don’t have to buy new baskets thought! Second hand stores are filled with baskets waiting for a new life. Another option is to upcycle materials from around your home or recycling bin to make Easter baskets. Here are a few specific suggestions:

• Buy a fair-trade Easter baskets: Purchase an African fair-trade baskets like one of these gorgeous Bolga Basket made exclusively for Bella Luna Toys by fair-trade artisans in Ghana.
• Reuse Easter baskets: Use a basket or container that you already own or get one from local thrift stores, garage sales, online marketplaces.
• Upcycled Easter baskets: Get creative and reuse items from your recycling bin like a grocery bag, plastic milk jug, cardboard milk carton, or yogurt container to make an Easter basket.

Ditch plastic grass stuffing

Do the planet a favour and ditch the tacky plastic grass basket stuffing! Plastic grass stuffing ends up in the landfill where it will sit there for ages. Plus, that plastic grass is so messy. Thankfully there are some lovely and inexpensive alternatives.

• Get some organic wool grass.
• Line baskets with play silks (I love Sarah’s Silks)
• Shred paper from the recycling bin.
• Use embroidered napkins from thrift stores.

Say no to plastic eggs

Plastic eggs are a throwaway item since they are made so cheaply. They also sit in the landfill for ages, along with all the plastic grass stuffing. Instead of filling baskets with cheap plastic eggs check out some of these eco-friendly egg options.

• Dye and decorate real eggs: Using eco-friendly dyes for egg decorating is great for the planet and fun for kids. There are plenty tutorials on how to dye eggs naturally, but if you don’t have time to DIY check out this Eco-Eggs kit or the Earth Paints Natural Egg Dye Kit. Both of these kits are kid-friendly and planet-friendly. Older kids that want something more challenging should try out a Ukrainian Easter Egg Pysanky Kit.
• Wooden eggs: My kids love playing with wooden eggs all year rounds so every Easter I like to add a few new wood eggs to their collection. You can even get wooden eggs in a small egg carton like these ones which is so cute! Wooden eggs can be painted, dyed and decorated or left natural.

Eco-Friendly Easter Basket Stuffers for Kids

Now that we’ve got the Easter basket and stuffing sorted out, let’s look at some earth-friendly items to add to these eco-friendly Easter baskets.

Art supplies

• Beeswax crayons: Beeswax crayons are a dream to use and better for the environment. These chunky pastel Honey Sticks are perfect for little hands while Filana beeswax crayon sticks and Filana beeswax crayon blocks are great for kids ages three to ten.
• Sidewalk chalk: Spring is perfect for sidewalk art. How about including some egg-shaped sidewalk chalk or bunny shaped chalk? There are lots of sidewalk chalk options to choose from.
• Natural paint: Paint can be eco-friendly too. This Earth Paint Kit is perfect for kids that want to discover how paint can be made from natural pigments.
• Playdough: Include some spring-themed homemade playdough or get some Eco-Dough.
• Spring craft kits: For kids that like to get crafty, skip out on the plastic craft kits and look for craft kits that use natural materials like this Spring Gnome Kit, Surprise Eggs Wet Felting Kit and Surprise Egg with Chick Felting Kit from mama-run Maplerose Store.

Outdoor play and discovery

• Bug viewers: Kids can get up close to bugs with a Hape Explorers Bug Jar, HABA Terra Kids – Observational Magnifier, Hape Nature Detective Set. or Melissa & Doug Bug House.
• Gardening tools: Get kids excited for gardening with this cute Kids Gardening Set or a Green Toys Watering Can made out of recycled plastic. These L’il Sprout Kids Gloves (Amazon link) are made of 25% recycled, post-consumer PET water bottles.
• Puddle play: Embrace puddle parenting and get your kid puddle stomping with a Jan & Jul Rain Suit and Rain Boots (love this brand!). I’m also a huge fan of the Reima raingear.
• Water bottle: Make sure your kids stay hydrated on their outdoor adventures with a mini Stanley Quencher 14 oz or the YETI Rambler Jr.
• Outdoor toys: Get kids paying outside with some outdoor toys like this Green Toys Skipping Rope.

Natural Toys

• Toy Bunnies: Real bunnies are a big commitment (I speak from experience!) so best not to make an impulse bunny purchase for Easter. However, there are some lovely natural bunny toys that are perfect for creative play. For starters, I love these solid wood Ostheimer Rabbits that are made in Germany. Tender Leaf Toys has Dollhouse Pet Rabbits and these cute Bunny Tales Wooden Dolls. PlanToys has a adorable vintage-looking Wooden Bunny Rabbit Racing Car. For soft plush options, Bella Bunny is handmade in Germany with certified organic cotton which is great for infants and this adorable exclusive Maileg Bunny x Bella Luna Toys Albin the Bunny would be great for toddlers and up.
• Wooden blocks: Wooden blocks are great loose parts toys that encourages imagination, creativity and problem-solving skills. While a big box of wooden blocks might not fit in an Easter basket, a smaller set like the fun magnetic blocks from Tegu Toys or a small pastel wooden rainbow tunnel would easily fit.
• Play silks and streamers: This Silk Sunny Ears are adorable and can be paired with some play silks from Sarah’s Silks or a Rainbow Streamer.

Easter picture books

In our home it’s a tradition to get an Easter themed book in your Easter Basket. If you’re looking for a lovely list of non-religious whimsical Easter picture book for kids I just compiled one here: Whimsical Easter Picture Books for Children.

Every Easter my children look forward to receiving a new Easter themed picture book in their basket. It’s a much loved Easter tradition in our home. There is no shortage of Easter themed picture books for children but if you are looking for stories that are magical, whimsical, and beautifully illustrated you’ve come to the right place. I should also mention that the Easter picture books in this list are non-religious.

Disclaimer: This page contains Amazon Affiliates links and I may earn a small commission from your purchases made through them. 

Bear Finds Eggs by Karma Wilson (Author) and Jane Chapman (Illustrator) (*NEW February 2024)

Karma Wilson and illustrator Jane Chapman are back with a brand new Bear Book! In this new book, Bear and his forest friends help Mama Meadowlark find her lost eggs.

Ages: 4 to 8

Easter on the Farm by Phyllis Alsdurf (Author) and Lisa Hunt (Illustrator) (*NEW March 2024)

The newest release from the Countryside Holidays collection!

A young girl and her family are ready to celebrate the new life of spring. She meets baby animals, helps prepare the garden for planting, and collects pussy willows by the marsh. As they get ready to host a community Easter egg hunt on the farm, the family also decorates eggs with natural dyes and makes funny gifts from egg shells and grass. (from Amazon.com)

Ages: 4 to 7

Egg by Kevin Henkes (Author, Illustrator)

Four colorful eggs are ready to hatch. Three birds hatch but one egg waits, and waits and waits. Finally, there is a surprise (hint: it’s not a bird!). A simple story about being different and friendship told through simple words and illustrations.

Ages: Babies to 5

Eggs Are Everywhere by Chronicle Books (Author), Wednesday Kirwan (Illustrator)

A lovely lip-the-flap for littles.

Ages: 1 to 3

Hush, Little Bunny by David Ezra Stein (Author, Illustrator)

A sweet take on the “Hush, Little Baby” lullaby.

Ages: 4 to 8

Little Blue Bunny by Erin Guendelsberger (Author), Stila Lim (Illustrator)

A heartwarming story about the relationship between a boy and little blue bunny as they go on many adventures together and the boy grows up.

Ages: 1 to 5

Little Blue Truck’s Springtime by Alice Schertle (Author), Jill McElmurry (Illustrator)

Part of the much loved Little Blue Truck series, in this book Little Blue Truck goes on a drive with good friend Toad to notice signs of spring.

Ages: Babies to 4

Little White Rabbit by Kevin Henkes (Author, Illustrator)

Little white rabbit hopped along. When he hopped through the high grass he wondered what it would be like to be green. When he hopped through the fir trees he wondered what it would be like to be tall. A lovely book about wondering and imagination with gentle illustrations.

Ages: Babies to 5

Mousekin’s Easter by Edna Miller (Author)

This classic tale from 1989, follows Mousekin’s springtime search for food brings after a long winter. During Mousekin’s search he discovers colored eggs, a white rabbit, and other symbols of Easter.

Ages: 6 to 8

Marshmallow: An Easter And Springtime Book For Kids by Clare Turlay Newberry (Author, Illustrator)

Oliver the cat lives indoors and doesn’t know about other animals until Miss Tilly brings home something small, white and fuzzy, a baby bunny named Marshmallow. This book was originally published in 1942 and became winner of the 1943 Caldecott Honor.

Ages: 2 to 6

Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt (Author), Golden Books (Illustrator)

A lovely little interactive book that works well for emerging readers.

Ages: Baby to 3

Rechenka’s Eggs by Patricia Polacco (Author)

One day Babushka, who is known for her beautifully painted eggs, rescues a goose from the wild and cares for it. The goose, named Rechenka, accidentally breaks Babushka’s prized painted eggs, but soon there is a miracle! This classic was originally published in 1942 and became winner of the 1943 Caldecott Honor.

Ages: 3 to 9

The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes by DuBose Heyward (Author), Marjorie Flack (Illustrator)

Published in 1939, this story is a favourite among my children. Mama Cottontail has many little babies (21!) and has given up her dream of becoming a Easter Bunny one day. That is until Grandfather Bunny sees how well behaved her children are and makes her the most important Easter Bunny of all!

Ages: 3 to 7

The Golden Egg Book (Little Golden Book) by Margaret Wise Brown (Author), Leonard Weisgard (Illustrator)

Once there was a little bunny and he was all alone. This classic Easter story was published in 1947 and is about a bunny that finds an egg and a friend.

Ages: 1 to 5

The Little Rabbit by Nicola Killen (Author, Illustrator)

The rain has stopped so Ollie and her toy bunny go outside to splash in puddles. Suddenly a magical breeze blossoms swoops by and bunny comes to life!

Ages: 4 to 8

The Easter Bunny That Overslept by Priscilla & Otto Friedrich (Author), Donald Saaf (Illustrator

The Easter Bunny is sound asleep but it’s Easter Day – oh no! Another classic first published in 1957.

Ages: 4 to 8

The Easter Egg by Jan Brett (Author, Illustrator)

Hoppi wants to make the most beautiful Easter egg so that he can help the Easter Rabbit on Easter day. Feeling frustrated by how the challenge Hoppi goes into the forest where he discovers a blue egg. A beautiful and richly illustrated book by one of my favourite author/illustrators Jan Brett.

Ages: 4 to 8

The Spring Rabbit: An Easter Tale by Angela McAllister (Author), Christopher Corr (Illustrator)

At the end of winter a sunbeam wakes up Spring. Spring brings the world to life and transforms a cold bird into a warm furry rabbit. To show gratitude to Spring, rabbit gathers eggs from birds which he gives to children in the nearby village. A lovely lyrical book filled with colourful illustrations.

Ages: 2 to 7

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Chick! by Lucille Colandro (Author), Jared Lee (Illustrator)

This funny story about an old lady that swallows a chick, straw, eggs, a basket and more! This is the Easter version of the There Was an Old Lady books.

Ages: 3 to 5

Too Many Carrots by Katy Hudson (Author, Illustrator)

Rabbit loves carrot, and collects them wherever he goes. But Rabbit has a problem, a big carroty problem. Rabbit has too many carrots!

Ages: 2 to 5

You’re My Little Honey by Nicola Edwards (Author), Natalie Marshall (Illustrator)

A sweet rhyming story for little honey bunnies.

Ages: 2 to 5