Even as a child, I remember not really enjoying the receipt of a party bag. They tended to be plastic, throwaway, “what does this even do?” type items that would end up in a drawer because I felt guilty throwing something that someone had just given me away.
Now as a parent myself I understand why party bags tend to be this way. Convenience, cost-effectiveness and general crowd pleasers. But are they? And, do we need to turn to plastic tat to relieve us of the organisation of party bags?
Research by environmental organisations suggests that millions of small plastic toys and novelty items are discarded every year after only a very short period of use. In fact, Green Schools Ireland reported that on average, a child receives 8-10 party bags per year, with each bag containing 4-6 plastic items. Less than 15% of households reuse these bags, and with 96% made from non recyclable soft plastics, much of it goes directly to landfill. Not only are we normalising throwaway culture, but we are also adding to the existing plastic pollution problem, with some plastics taking more than 500 years to break down.
The good news is that there are plenty of thoughtful alternatives…
Alternative ideas for party bags
Grow Your Own Kits for Children
These are my favourite!
Grow your own kits for children are an inexpensive way to give a fun activity that lasts beyond the party itself. Unlike novelty toys that are forgotten after a few days, growing seeds gives children something exciting to care for and watch develop over time. Studies have shown that gardening can help children build patience, responsibility and confidence, while also encouraging a connection with nature.
Our Little Green Creators Mini Grow Your Own Kits (£6.50) are designed to be the ultimate small gift for kids or party bag favour. They are planet-friendly, budget-friendly and provide children with a rewarding screen-free activity for the morning after the party or on a rainy day.
Grow your own kits also make lovely presents if your child is attending a birthday party and you're looking for something a little different.
Second-Hand Books
You can get your hands on second-hand books from a variety of different sources these days. If you’re old school like me, then a good old charity shop never fails to disappoint. Libraries often run mini book sales with a "pay what you can" approach. If you prefer to shop online, World of Books or Vinted can offer some great deals as well.
Books make wonderful party bag fillers because they can be enjoyed again and again, and encourage imagination and learning!
Origami Templates
These are a fab addition that children can get going with straight away. You can buy a set and divide them between each party bag. There are a range of themes available, allowing you to tailor them to your party theme, whether that's jungle animals, dinosaurs, fairies or space.
Origami is a brilliant screen-free activity that helps develop fine motor skills, concentration and creativity. Better still, children end up with something they've made themselves rather than a disposable plastic toy.
Printable Colouring or Activity Sheets
You can find these online for free or for a small fee, and they’re easy to print at home. If you purchase a downloadable pack, you can usually print as many copies as you need and keep the document forever! If you don’t have a printer, your local library may have one available for a small cost.
There is such a variety available, from simple colouring sheets and cut-and-stick crafts (the above are from our Autumn printable packs exclusively available on Etsy) to puzzles, scavenger hunts and nature-themed challenges. Pair them with a small eco-friendly pack of crayons or colouring pencils if you want to add a little something extra.
Rethinking Party Bags
Party bags don't have to be expensive, elaborate or filled with lots of items to be appreciated. You could combine all the above or just choose one or two with a slice of cake!
Whether it's a second-hand book, printable activity pack, origami set or one of our grow your own kits, choosing sustainable party bag ideas helps reduce waste while giving children something genuinely enjoyable to take home.
And if you're attending a birthday party rather than hosting one, nature-inspired craft kits, gardening kits and children’s activity kits can make thoughtful alternatives to traditional children's gifts too (our bestselling Garden EggBox Collection has been a firm favourite for gifting!) They're fun, educational and encourage children to spend time creating and growing.
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