Easter traditions/ideas/advice?

[sparklett]

How do you spend Easter with your toddler?

We're faced with a few issues this year. First, DS isn't supposed to have candy (he's actually going in for 3 root canals the next day) so all of the sugar associated with Easter is NOT good. I could ask family not to give him candy in his Easter basket, but he'll see the candy in his cousin's baskets... I think we can all see how that will go. Can anyone suggest alternatives? How can we do all of this w/o the candy and w/o DS feeling bad that his cousins get gobs of candy and he doesn't? Should I just cave, pack a toothbrush, and let him splurge for this one day?

Second, we're agnostic and celebrate the "cultural" aspects of Easter- the Bunny, the eggs, the baskets, time with family, etc. (Sorry- I don't mean to offend anyone.) We're *thinking* about going to a local Unitarian gathering because they have a fun toddler program, but DH is resistant. Are there any other families with similar beliefs out there? How do you spend the day with your toddler?

Candy/basket ideas? Traditions to try? Let's hear it!

[Starry-eyedMom]

I haven't checked what's available, but maybe you can go to a local health food store and buy treats made with Xylitol or stevia? Also, a couple little toys in the basket will help.

We haven't done any church activities yet either, but we paint the eggs together and with some friends a few days before. Last year, we went to the egg hunt that our small town puts on at a local park. There are tons of kids and families, which is exciting, and I bring my own eggs in my big bag so my kids can actually get a few in their baskets (the big kids find the eggs set out so quickly).

This year, we were thinking about inviting some family friends to do the egg hunt at our house because we have a large wooded lot. Then having a potluck lunch or dinner together. It will be low-key whatever we do!