Every three or four months, I comb through the house to collect all the poppers, slap and rubber bracelets, finger skateboards, bouncy balls, tiny squishies, costume rings, and other birthday party “goodies.” I fill up a big bag, then give it away in a Facebook Buy Nothing Group, usually to a teacher or library volunteer who passes it on to the next family.
Based on countless conversations, I know many moms feel the same pain of knick-knack accumulation. Can we just all agree to stop giving this stuff?
What’s wrong with goodie bags?
The problem with goodie bags is the stuff is too nice to throw away but not nice enough to make it into a regular play rotation (with maybe a few exceptions).
A friend of mine gives her kids 48 hours, then it all goes in the trash. I love the initiative.
Why don’t I just do that? The environmental impact. The idea of so much plastic headed to a landfill or the ocean makes me cringe.
So here I am with mountains of brick-a-brac scattered around the house, which is already overflowing with stuff. I feel paralyzed. So much junk and nothing to do with it.
The Buy Nothing group has been a great solution. (Feel free to steal it!)
But what if we didn’t have to deal with this problem in the first place? I know I’m not the only one open to a change.
What’s the solution to goodie bag clutter?
I understand the sentiment behind the bags. You brought a gift for my child, so here’s a small thank you. But I also spent a decent chunk of change on the shindig where your kid came, ate cake, and had fun. I don’t see why we can’t call that even. But that may be just me.
Skipping the favors altogether is probably too radical.
Here’s my proposal: Give something more substantial.
Sunglasses are my go-to. A friend gave out knit gloves. These items have a real-life purpose. And if you don’t want them, they’re still worth donating.
The parental reception to these favors was enthusiastic.
I’m not saying spend more money on these upgraded favors.
Google’s AI estimates the typical goodie bag costs $2-$5 per child. What could you get for that price instead? Here are some ideas.
- Activity or coloring book
- Playing cards or a card game
- A couple of playdough cans
- Sidewalk chalk
- Pack of 8 crayons
- Plastic sunglasses
- Knit gloves
- Watercolor paints
Your experience may vary depending on where you buy. Try a discount store like Five Below or Dollar Tree. Amazon always has lots of multi-packs.
Together, we can end the scourge of tiny plastic and rubber tchotchkes taking over our houses!
