Things To Do

11 Kids’ Birthday Party Favors Parents Won’t Want to Immediately Throw Away

written by BRETT NICOLE HAYDEN

The Everymom’s product selections are curated by the editorial team. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love.

gift bag with party favors"
gift bag with party favors
Graphics by: Caitlin Schneider
Graphics by: Caitlin Schneider

Growing up, there were few things quite as exciting as getting invited to a friend’s birthday party. Or, better yet, being the one being celebrated and getting to have your very own birthday party. From picking a fun theme to nailing the absolute perfect location, turning another year older and having a day dedicated to them is something every kid looks forward to. 

For parents, birthday parties can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, we get to see our little ones smile at being invited to a celebratory event and beam with joy as they pick out the perfect present for their friend. On the other hand, we’re either tasked with planning an event or debating whether to just toss the goodie bag our little ones bring home.

Many of us have been there—dealing with loud whistles, sticky toys, or slime that our kids brought home from a birthday party. Perhaps it’s time we as parents band together on a united front. Let’s all agree to opt for kids’ birthday party favors that won’t drive us all crazy. If you need some thought starters, read on for 11 kids’ birthday party favors parents won’t immediately want to throw out. 

 

11 Kids Birthday Party Favors 

 

1. Coloring Book or Notepad with Crayons or Pencils

Party favors that are actually useful are a dream come true for parents. That’s why opting for either a coloring book and crayons or a notepad and pencils will always be appreciated. Pick choose one in a fun color or theme that fits the party so the kiddos are just as excited about it. 

kids birthday party favors
Amazon
Secret Worlds Coloring Book
Shop now
crayons
Target | Crayola
24ct Crayons
Shop now
notepads
Amazon
Mini Pixel Notepads
Shop now
kids birthday party favors
Amazon
Colorful Number 2 Pencils
Shop now

 

2. Books

There’s nothing better than adding to a little one’s library. This can be a fun option as there are countless books on any topic. To make this more budget-friendly, consider purchasing a bundle and splitting them up between the party guest. Make it even more special by having your little one choose which guest gets which book and write a note inside for each friend. 

book set
Scholastic
Raise a Reader Set: Favorite Picture Books
Shop now
book set
Scholastic
Raise a Reader Set: Engaging Adventures
Shop now

 

3. Bath Bombs

The name of the game with birthday party favors is useful items. They’re made even better if they can be used and not be left sitting around the house. Bath bombs are fun for kids and a perfect favor because we can find options that fit any party theme. 

bath bombs
Etsy | Triple Lotus Wellness
Organic Bath Bombs for Kids With Toy
Shop now
bath bombs
Etsy | Soakey Dokey
9-Pack Bath Bombs
Shop now

 

4. Plant or Flower Seeds

A fun party favor that’s also good for the environment? Sign us up! What’s even better is that planting the seeds will be a fun activity for the kids to do at home and they’ll be so excited to see their flowers bloom or to help in the kitchen with their fresh herbs. Want to plus up the party favor? Include a ball jar filled with dirt so kids have everything they need to get started. 

flower seeds
Amazon
Annual Flower Seed Packs
Shop now
seeds
Amazon
Organic Herb Seeds Collection
Shop now

 

5. Small Games

You can never go wrong with the classic games. Choose one that can be used over and over again or one that will bring on lots of smiles. They won’t take up a lot of space in the house, and kids and their families can have fun using them together. 

uno card game
Target | Mattel
UNO Card Game
Shop now
mad libs
Amazon
Mad Libs
Shop now
frisbees
Amazon
Flying Disc Toys
pack of 3
Shop now
kids jumprope
Amazon
Colorful Jump Rope for Kids
pack of 6
Shop now

 

 

6. Sidewalk Chalk

Giving something that allows kids to get outside and be creative is fun and beneficial. As a bonus, it’s something the kids can play with during the birthday party. 

sidewalk chalk
Amazon
Washable Sidewalk Chalks
Set of 36, packs of 6
Shop now
sidewalk chalk
Etsy | SK Creatives
Donut Sidewalk Chalk
available in packs of 5
Shop now

 

7. Candy Kabobs

No kid will ever complain about getting candy. And parents will be glad to not have to hang onto little trinkets or messy toys. These kabobs are a fun and unique way to hand out that kids will love. 

candy kabobs
Etsy | Dandy Candy Shop
Custom Candy Kabobs
pack of 10
Shop now
candy kabobs
Etsy | Sugarbox Designs
Ice Cream Candy Kabobs
pack of 12
Shop now

 

8. Paint Kits 

These paint kits can be done at the party or taken home for a fun craft. Either way, kids will look forward to the activity. Plus, parents can appreciate their kiddos using their creative side. 

paint kits
Etsy | Snazzy Dazzy Crayons
Mermaid and Shells Paint Your Own Kits
Shop now
paint kits for kids
Etsy | Snazzy Dazzy Crayons
Unicorn Paint Your Own Kits
Shop now

 

9. Friendship Bracelets

This is another great option for an activity that can be done at the party and then sent home. There are tons of kits out there and everyone can make them completely customized.

friendship bracelet kit
Etsy | xo Fetti
Bead Kit - 1300 Pcs
Shop now
friendship bracelet kit
Amazon
Craft Beads Kit
Shop now

 

10. Custom Color Changing Cups

We know all too well how quickly party supplies get tossed after one use. Instead of purchasing tons of plastic cups that aren’t good for our environment, opt for reusable cups. A color-changing cup that the kids can take home with them will double as a fun favor. Take it a step further by personalizing them to each guest. 

personalized cups
Etsy | Steggy and Rex
Personalized Color Changing Cups
Choose a personalization based on your party theme!
Shop now
kids birthday party favors cups
Etsy | Cuts and Create
Dinosaur Themed Cups
A more budget-friendly pick at $6 each.
Shop now
kids birthday party favors cups
Etsy | Cuts and Create
Neon Personalized Color Changing Cups
Fun neon colors can go with any theme.
Shop now
kids birthday party favors cups
Etsy | Twinklebytomb
Mermaid Personalized Color Changing Cups
Princess, unicorn, and dinosaur-themed cups are also available.
Shop now

 

11. Gift Cards

If the budget permits a little extra spending, it may be fun to hand out small gift cards. Not only will these always be appreciated, but they can also often fit the theme of the party. For example, if your little one’s party has a superhero theme, a gift certificate to a theater or Fandango to see the latest film is a great option. 

21 Un-four-gettable 4-Year-Old Birthday Party Ideas
CLICK TO READ