10 Thoughtful Party Favor Ideas Kids Will Actually Use (No Plastic Junk!)
Party favors have come a long way, and more parents are choosing quality, reusable items over cheap, plastic trinkets that often get tossed aside. Thoughtful party favors don’t just provide a memento of the celebration – they offer something kids can actually use, enjoy, and even treasure. Here are 10 creative and practical ideas that kids and parents will both appreciate.
1. Mini Board Games – Portable Fun
Mini board games are a great option for favors, providing hours of entertainment that go beyond a single party. Compact versions of classic games like Connect 4, Tic-Tac-Toe, or Checkers are perfect for on-the-go fun and can be played with friends or family.
Why It Works: Board games encourage interaction, critical thinking, and cooperative play, making them a gift that parents will appreciate, too.
Where to Find Supplies:
• Gamie Small Magnetic Board Travel Game Set
• Miniature Board Games for Kids
2. Art Supplies Kit – Inspire Creativity
Kids love having their own art supplies, so why not create mini art kits as favors? Fill a small, reusable pouch with colored pencils, markers, stickers, or a mini sketchbook. You can even tailor the supplies to fit your party’s theme.
Why It Works: Art supplies are useful, reusable, and encourage creativity – a great combination for an engaging, memorable favor.
Where to Find Supplies:
3. Reusable Water Bottles – Stay Hydrated in Style
Reusable water bottles are a thoughtful and practical gift that kids can use daily. Look for stainless steel or BPA-free plastic bottles and customize them with each child’s name or a fun sticker that matches your party theme.
Why It Works: These bottles help reduce plastic waste and serve a purpose, making them a valuable addition to any goody bag.
Where to Find Supplies:
• Personalized Kids Water Bottles
• Kids’ Reusable Water Bottles
• Customizable Water Bottles for Kids
4. Small Puzzles – A Mind-Bending Favor
Mini puzzles, whether jigsaw or brain-teaser style, make a unique and engaging favor. Choose age-appropriate puzzles that provide a bit of a challenge, like wooden jigsaws, Rubik’s Cubes, or simple brain-teasers.
Why It Works: Puzzles keep kids engaged, help develop problem-solving skills, and can be taken on trips or enjoyed at home.
Where to Find Supplies:
• Mini Jigsaw Puzzles for Kids
• Brain Teaser Puzzles for Children
5. Mini Books – Perfect for Little Readers
Small books or mini story collections are a fantastic party favor that can keep kids entertained and encourage reading. Choose a variety of themes or short stories that match the interests of your party guests.
Why It Works: Books are a meaningful, screen-free gift that parents will appreciate, and kids can enjoy long after the party ends.
Where to Find Supplies:
• Mini Board Books for Toddlers
6. Eco-Friendly Crayon Sets – Fun and Safe
Beeswax or soy crayons are non-toxic, biodegradable, and come in vibrant colors. Look for small crayon sets or go the extra mile and pick up crayons in fun shapes that match the party theme – like animals, stars, or cars.
Why It Works: These crayons are practical, safe for younger kids, and inspire creativity while being kinder to the environment.
Where to Find Supplies:
7. Friendship Bracelet Kits – A Hands-On Activity
Friendship bracelet kits are a fun, interactive favor that lets kids create something unique. Include a few colors of thread, beads, and a simple instruction card in each kit, so kids can make their bracelets at home.
Why It Works: This favor is customizable, creative, and offers a hands-on activity that kids will remember long after the party.
Where to Find Supplies:
• Friendship Bracelet Making Kit
• Friendship Bracelet Kit for Kids
8. Recycled Notebooks – A Place for Ideas
Small notebooks made from recycled paper are an excellent favor for kids who love to doodle, jot down ideas, or even start their own journals. Look for notebooks in fun colors or with covers that fit your party theme.
Why It Works: Notebooks are practical, reusable, and encourage kids to express themselves through writing or drawing.
Where to Find Supplies:
9. Mini Craft Kits – Creativity in a Bag
Craft kits are a hands-on party favor that can be tailored to nearly any theme. Include supplies for making simple DIY crafts, like friendship bracelets, clay creations, or mini paintings, in a reusable cloth bag.
Why It Works: Craft kits encourage kids to continue creating long after the party ends and provide a productive activity they can enjoy at home.
Where to Find Supplies:
• Mini Craft Kits for Children
10. Personalized Keychains or Zipper Pulls – A Practical Keepsake
Kids love having personalized items, and keychains or zipper pulls are a fun way to give each guest something unique. You can find personalized keychains in various shapes and styles, from names to initials to favorite animals.
Why It Works: Keychains and zipper pulls are small, durable, and add a personal touch to backpacks, jackets, or lunchboxes.
Where to Find Supplies:
• Personalized Name Keychains - Etsy
Tips for Putting Together Thoughtful Favors
Thoughtful party favors don’t have to be elaborate – they just need to show a bit of care and consideration for what kids might enjoy and use. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Keep It Simple: You don’t need to pack a goody bag full of items. Choose one or two high-quality items that kids will genuinely appreciate.
Choose Reusable Packaging: Use small cloth bags, boxes, or pouches that kids can reuse instead of disposable plastic bags.
Personalize When Possible: Adding a name or unique touch makes any favor feel extra special.
When it comes to party favors, a little thoughtfulness goes a long way. By focusing on reusable, practical, and engaging items, you’re providing kids with something that lasts beyond the party and that they can actually use and enjoy. Ditch the plastic trinkets and opt for thoughtful favors that leave a lasting impression – and maybe even spark a new hobby or interest!
