Elegant Easter Baskets for Teens

Santa and the Easter Bunny have something in common--long after your kids have stopped believing in their existence, they still expect to receive the goods. Fortunately, it can be just as much fun putting together an Easter basket for a teen as for the littlest ones. If you're stuck for ideas, try thinking outside the box (or, in this case, the basket).

First, find the perfect container. It can be a traditional Easter basket or something out of the ordinary. If using a traditional basket, purchase one that is large enough and sturdy enough to comfortably hold the contents. Girls will like bright Spring colors. Guys will appreciate something in black or a natural finish. A basket does not have to be the expected round basket with a tall handle. Square and rectangular baskets without handles may come in handy for other uses after the holiday. If you prefer something a little quirky or, again, just want a container that will have a practical use in the future, consider one of the following:

Styrofoam cooler
Small Igloo cooler (six-pack size)
Laundry basket
Backpack
Lunch box
Small suitcase or duffel bag
Makeup case
Large terracotta flower pot
Scrap-booking bag
Artist's case or bag
Laptop case
Modular plastic or fabric box in your teen's room colors
Hat box
Beach bag
Purse
Camera bag
Gym Bag

The list could go on and on. I'm sure you can think of others, and there is something out there that will appeal specifically to your own teen.

Paper shred will look more grown-up than plastic Easter grass. This can be found along with other Easter supplies or in the regular gift-wrap section or craft section of stores. One good idea is to use one color for all items in the basket. Wal-mart and other stores now have color-coordinated items located together on the shelf. Decide on a color, then choose from paper shred, candy, chocolate bunnies, gum ball machines, mugs and cups, and many other items all in the same color.

The basics you will want to include are a chocolate bunny, some jelly beans, Peeps marshmallow chicks or rabbits, and perhaps some gum and other candy items.

Once you have put together the basic basket with paper shred and candy, it is time to get creative. Include some items that will be unexpected, but greatly appreciated by your teen. An Easter basket does not have to be just about the candy, especially when one reaches the teen years. Some ideas for the little "extras" are:

T-shirt
Flip-flops
CD
DVD
Itunes gift card
Starbucks gift card
Department store or specialty store gift card
Wallet or coin purse
Cologne or After-shave
Bath items--razors, soap, body lotion, foot spray, bath powder
Socks
Travel games
Hand-held electronic games
Camera
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Tanning membership (if you allow your son or daughter to tan--use your discretion)
Gym membership
Movie pass
Bowling pass
Restaurant gift card
Small folding umbrella
School supplies
Travel mug or water bottle
Flashlight

Your own teen's interests and activities will determine what his or her most prized gifts would be. Your teen may enjoy a themed basket. Think about current interests or about activities he or she may participate in this summer and plan a basket around that theme. Theme basket ideas include:

Beach
Sports
Professional sports team
Clubs
Movies
Nails and Makeup

Last but not least, cash is always exciting to receive. If Easter has slipped up on you, and you are running short on time, you can still present your teen with a fun Easter gift. Find a small basket or other container and line it with paper shred or tissue paper. Slip a gift of money into a humorous card and place the card and a chocolate bunny into the basket. Your teen will be thrilled and you will be on his good side--at least until Monday morning when he can't find his favorite shirt.