Party bags dillema

[Windymiller123]

Sorry, not sure where to post this but I need some advice re party bags for my 4 yo b-day party.

Her b-day is two days before Halloween and I was wandering around the shops today and thought maybe I can get the kids Halloween buckets instead of regular party bags and fill them with (healthy) treats. The buckets are made of plastic, but they are nicely made and of course reusable. Would this be acceptable and not too far from the standard party bags everyone expects?

I think it's a cool idea but why do the snacks have to be healthy? It's a party

I think it's a lovely idea, what are the buckets like? Pumpkin smiley face orange?

@HPmagic it's because some of the mums coming are very particular about sugar. I'm the same to a certain extent.

That sounds a really good idea. A bit different.

I tried to do "good" party bags for DS1 but soon realised that actually, a bag of sweets and a piece of cake is far better than trying harder. Whatever you put in it's just junk for landfill. At least sweets get used.

If they’re particular about sugar then will they allow them to go trick or treating? If not the buckets will just be useless.

We’re actually moving away from even plastic bags in party bags. They’re all paper. I’d go for a paper bag with a small book (from a multipack), a balloon and a piece of cake.

@frazzledd yes, picture attached

To be honest I think it depends how well you know the guests. Not everyone likes Halloween, I know one family actively dislike due to their religious beliefs. Personally I would just stick with the usual party bag if I were you. I know there are plenty of paper, more environmentally friendly options out there if that is important to you.

I agree with pp, the idea of healthy treats does sound a little odd. If you are trying to avoid too many sweets just put something else in instead, hair bands, stickers, pencils etc!

Or scrap the party bags all together and if you wish give a small gift.

If it’s the thin cheap plastic buckets then don’t bother they break quickly.

@PackedintheUK the idea is that the plastic buckets are reusable. Of course if people choose to reuse them. Any paper bags that use trees to produce get thrown in the bin straight away. Paper bags are not green in my opinion.

Thank you everyone, I appreciate everyone's input. I needed some feedback

We’ve gone for books - healthy and reusable with no bag needed

I won’t even mention what’s in my DS’ party bags then 🙈🤫

My nieces are having a joint party on Halloween and are getting a big pumpkin each to carve at home with their families. Eco friendly!

Meant all the kid guests are getting a pumpkin

@Yellow85

I won’t even mention what’s in my DS’ party bags then 🙈🤫

They’re also getting chocolate, cake and dinosaur masks as well. So a mix.

[quote Windymiller123]@PackedintheUK the idea is that the plastic buckets are reusable. Of course if people choose to reuse them. Any paper bags that use trees to produce get thrown in the bin straight away. Paper bags are not green in my opinion.[/quote]
I think that's the problem. Having something reusable is an admirable aim but the reality is it's just more substantial plastic for landfil. The same with better quality party bag toys. Unless you really hit gold, it's just bigger better junk.

@showmethegin what a great idea!

yes would second the books or notebooks
or even a bath bomb

@beigebrownblue

yes would second the books or notebooks or even a bath bomb

Bath bombs for 4 year olds? No -

Books are a great idea though 👌

The bucket might be technically reusable but consider

• some (maybe most) people don't really do halloween
• those that do probably already have a bucket
• some might use it but then throw it away instead of storing it for next year

So all these buckets will be in landfill within 1-2 years, most 1-2 days. I'd skip it.

Sounds good to me, but I'm Irish and Halloween is a lot more universally enjoyed over here.

WTF is wrong with a bath bomb for a four year old?

@Cuntness oh no! Some are really nasty for your skin. I developed an nasty eczema which I never had in my life after starting to use them. DD also had a very nasty skin infection after using bath bubbles which are quite mild in comparison. Not for everyone

Good idea. They can use them year on year. We got some years ago and use them every Halloween. Cheap for you too. I have just bought fabric colour in bags for my 6yo but worked out a bit pricier. Her bday is after halloween so planning to fill them with a few sweets. I know we grown ups don't like it, but the kids do and at least it's not more rubbish on the planet.