Many people consider Spring to be their favorite season. After a long, cold winter of snow and ice, the days grow warmer, trees bud out with tiny, light-green leaves, and flowers begin to bloom. With the signs of springtime all around, our children start thinking about Easter. Specifically, they start thinking about a visit from the Easter Bunny. These Candy-Free Easter Basket Treats can help you make that Easter Bunny visit just a bit healthier.

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. The best way to prevent diabetes is by instilling a pattern of healthy eating in our children. While any child might be thrilled to find several pounds of candy in their basket, there are many healthier treats that could make them happy, too. The following are some of my favorite options for Candy-Free Easter Basket Treats:

1. Recreational Toys - Toys like Frisbees, yo-yos, and jump ropes are inexpensive and can provide hours of fun for your child, encouraging them away from more sedentary activities. Even a set of jacks and a new ball can open up a world of retro fun for your son or daughter, and some bonding time for the two of you as you teach your child to play (or learn yourself!).

2. Tickets to Fun - Is there a movie playing that your child is anxious to see? Buy tickets and include them in their Easter basket. Do you have a fun museum, zoo, or special recreational activity your son or daughter would love? Surprise them with tickets and make a plan to go soon. Not only will it get your kids out into the world and give them a chance to walk around and experience something new - you'll be doing it together!

3. Feed Their Hobbies - Does your daughter just love computer games? Get her the latest version of her favorite - or a gift certificate so she can choose her own. Does your son love to cook? Get him his own chef's apron and a fun cook book to help him get creative in the kitchen. Whatever your child is into, gifts that provide a new way for them to express that are wonderful. Your child sees that you are paying attention to the person they are and encouraging them in the activities they enjoy. From craft supplies to music to the latest teen romance zombie thriller - they make great Candy-Free Easter Basket Treats.

4. Teach Them to Grow - Spring is a time when everything begins to grow again after a long winter of sleep. Give your kids some space to grow some seeds and they'll learn big lessons about nature and plants and taking care of the earth. It doesn't take much space. Even planting seeds in flower pots in the patio will help them experience the wonder of seeing their seeds sprout and become plants. And if they grow food, eating something they've grown with their own hands could change their lives in ways you can't imagine.

Spring is a magical time, and to most kids, Easter Baskets are the next best thing to a visit from Santa Claus at Christmas. With these Candy-Free Easter Basket Treats, that wonderful basket can also contain fun that will last long after all the chocolate bunnies and jelly beans have disappeared. Instilling healthy habits early on is the best way to help your child avoid long term conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney disease. The Easter Bunny can't help but approve of that!