How to Fill a Goodie Bag for a Child's Birthday

Another birthday is here, and you want to give out goody bags at the party. You don't want to break the bank, but you do want to give something worth playing with.

Instructions

1. Try buying a kit. There are terrific goody bags along many themes that contain a fun mix of toys for both girls and boys (see Resources). Other retailers such as Target also offer goody bag kits in the party aisle.

2. Shop at a local party supply store. Review what they have and what you want to spend. Often they focus more on the cheap and easy items, so make sure the items you purchase are good enough quality to hand out. Be wary of products that have the potential to break into sharp pieces.

3. Select one item for the goody bag. Often a puzzle, a set of play dough or sidewalk chalk makes the kids smile. The goody bag doesn't have to be filled with lots of small stuff if you focus on one quality item.

4. Give a gift card. As kids get older, they might prefer the chance to pick something out. Give them a $5 gift card to Blockbuster or the local ice cream parlor. The kids will love it.

5. Make a donation in their name. While most young children won't like this as they prefer the toys, older kids might appreciate your giving to the Red Cross or a local animal shelter in their honor rather than trying to select an item that they may not use.