100+ Fun Alternatives To Goody Bags For A Kids Birthday

Let’s be real — goody bags are usually filled with cheap toys and candy that end up in the trash faster than you can say “Happy Birthday!”

As a mom of three, I’ve hosted more parties than I can count. And every time, I ask myself: “Why are we still doing this?” The sugar rush. The clutter. The price tag. It’s not worth it.

But you know what is worth it? Sending kids home with something fun, creative, and clutter-free — something they’ll actually use, love, or remember.

In this mega list, you’ll find over 100 goody bag alternatives — organized by category — that are fun, useful, and budget-friendly. Whether you’re throwing a dinosaur bash, a spa party, or a backyard BBQ, there’s something here to make your party next-level.

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DIY & Crafty Party Favors (Because Kids Love Making Stuff)

Let’s give the kids a little creative power. You want them focused, happy, and going home with something they actually like? This is how you do it. These favors double as an activity and a gift — that’s efficiency. That’s smart. That’s next-level parenting.

1. Paint-Your-Own Canvas Kits

Mini canvas, paint pots, and a brush. You hand this out, and you’ve got little Picassos in your living room. Amazing.

2. DIY Superhero Capes

Provide blank capes and fabric markers. Suddenly you’ve got a team of heroes, and not a single tantrum in sight.

3. Friendship Bracelet Kits

Colorful string, a few beads, and boom — kids are making things and not asking for cake every five minutes.

4. Make-Your-Own Slime

Still a top request. It’s messy, yes. But it’s the right kind of chaos.

5. Birdhouse Decorating Kits

You give a kid a wooden birdhouse and some paint, and suddenly they’re Bob Ross for birds.

6. Decorate-Your-Own Tote Bags

Hand them a canvas bag and some markers — it’s eco-friendly, functional, and fabulous.

7. DIY Rock Painting Kits

Acrylic paints + smooth stones = hours of focus. It’s crafty magic, folks.

8. Color-Your-Own T-Shirts

Fabric markers and a white tee — simple, brilliant, and wearable. That’s what we call marketing genius.

9. Make-Your-Own Crowns or Tiaras

Foam sheets, jewels, glue — royalty on a budget. And they love it.

10. Custom Playdough Jars

Homemade playdough in little mason jars. Add a label with their name, and suddenly it’s a luxury item.

11. DIY Puzzle Sets

Blank puzzles kids can draw on before breaking them apart and re-solving them. It’s creative and sneaky-smart.

13. Paint-Your-Own Flower Pots

Terracotta pots and some paint — perfect for spring birthdays or garden party themes. Totally charming.

14. DIY Puppet Kits

Socks, buttons, yarn — boom, you’ve got puppets and an impromptu puppet show. Ratings through the roof.

15. Make-Your-Own Bookmarks

Cardstock, stickers, ribbon — they’ll feel like little authors.

16. Mini Canvas Magnet Kits

Small canvases with magnets glued on the back. Kids paint them, stick them on the fridge, and it’s art on display.

17. Create-Your-Own Comic Book

Blank comic strip templates + markers = storytelling gold. Especially great for superhero parties.

18. DIY Wand or Lightsaber Kits

Wooden dowels + glitter or foil tape = magic. Literal magic. It’s a party, not a UN meeting.

19. Stencil & Chalk Art Kits

Sidewalk stencils and chalk packaged together — simple, classic, and totally loved.

20. Paint-Your-Own Wooden Ornaments

Seasonal? Sure. But even in July, a snowflake ornament is fun. And you know it.

Give them something to do, not just something to toss. These DIY party favors turn your celebration into a mini art studio, and guess what? You’ll be the mom everyone talks about — in a good way. Parents love it. Kids love it. Pinterest moms cry just a little. It’s beautiful. Tremendous, really.

Creative & Educational Goodies (Smart, Fun, and Totally Brag-Worthy)

Look — if you’re gonna give out party favors, why not give ones that build brain cells? These picks aren’t just cute, they’re clever. The kind of favors that make other parents say, “Wow, she’s got it together.” Because you do. You’re not handing out sugar and garbage — you’re handing out potential. Let’s go.

1. Mini Storybooks

Little Golden Books, leveled readers, or themed picture books — you’re raising readers and they don’t even realize it.

2. Puzzle Books

Sudoku, crosswords, word searches — brain games that buy you quiet time. Very powerful.

3. Origami Kits

A square of paper and a dream. Teaches focus, patience, and finger dexterity. And it looks cool.

4. Science Experiment Kits

Volcanoes, slime, baking soda rockets — party ends, science begins. Great for future little Einsteins.

5. Crystal Growing Kits

They get to grow a rock. Educational and magical. It’s like Hogwarts for homeschoolers.

6. Personalized Journals

Throw in a cute pen and you’ve got a gratitude journal, a secret diary, or a future bestselling memoir. Who knows?

7. DIY Comic Book Kits

Blank comic templates, markers, stickers — let the kids become the authors and illustrators. New Marvel who?

8. Air Dry Clay For Kids

Air dry clay is soft, squishy and super light when it dries up. It’s a treasure they can keep for a long time, and it’s art!

9. Build-Your-Own Solar System Kit

Space party? This one’s a no-brainer. A ball of foam and some paint = planetary genius.

10. Make-A-Face Sticker Kits

My kids have always loved these, they turn out super goofy and fun!

11. Personalized Bookmarks

Functional, cute, and secretly motivating them to open a book. Parenting level: expert.

12. Themed Rubik’s Cubes

They’ll play with it for hours. And maybe solve it. And maybe run for president one day. You never know.

13. Mini Magnetic Whiteboards

With dry erase markers. Great for doodling, practicing spelling, or running pretend businesses. Boom.

14. Forky Activity kits

This is the cutest little forky set and it has everything you need!

15. Mini Greenhouse Kits

A cup, some soil, and a seed — it’s not just a plant, it’s a life lesson. Responsibility in a biodegradable pot.

16. Birdwatching or Bug Kits

Field guide, binoculars, bug container — let them explore the wild. Even if the wild is just their backyard.

17. DIY Globe Craft

Paper globes to color, cut, and fold. Geography + art = the crossover event of the year.

18. Color-Coded Keyboard Stickers

Great for kids learning to type — makes the computer look like a party and teaches real skills. Unstoppable.

19. Build-Your-Own Robot Cards

No batteries needed. Just cardboard pieces that slot together into goofy robots. Creative and mess-free.

You didn’t just throw a party — you launched a think tank for toddlers. These educational favors say, “Yes, we had cake… but we also grew our brains.” And let me tell you — that’s how you win the party game. The other moms are impressed. The kids are inspired. And you? You look like an absolute legend. Tremendous, truly.

Food-Inspired Party Favors (Delicious, Adorable, and Totally Genius)

Listen — food favors are the smartest favors. Why? Because they don’t end up as clutter, they’re fun to make, and every single kid loves them. Parents do too — no choking hazards, no noise, just a little edible magic.

Let’s give ‘em something sweet and strategic. These food-themed party favors are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.

1. Cookie Decorating Kits

A sugar cookie, some frosting, and a bag of sprinkles. Toss it all in a cute box — boom, you’re Martha Stewart now.

2. Baking Mix Jars

Layer dry ingredients for cookies or brownies in a mason jar. Add a cute tag with instructions. Budget-friendly brilliance.

3. Hot Chocolate Bombs

Wrap ’em individually. Kids love ’em. Adults steal ’em. You’ve been warned.

4. Custom Cookies

Shaped and decorated to match the party theme — unicorns, dinosaurs, you name it. Almost too cute to eat. Almost.

5. DIY Ice Cream Sundae Kits

Mini tubs of sprinkles, crushed cookies, and chocolate chips. Throw in a spoon and a smile.

6. Popcorn Cones or Bags

Drizzled, colored, or plain — sweet or salty. Easy to prep in bulk. Always a win.

7. Personalized Water Bottles + Drink Mix Pouches

Functional and fun — especially cute for pool parties or summer bashes.

8. Mini S’mores Kits

A graham cracker, marshmallow, and chocolate square, packaged together. Campfire vibes, no tent required.

9. Cupcake-in-a-Jar

Layer frosting and cake in a mini jar. It’s fancy. It’s fun. And it feels extra, which we love.

10. Candy Kabobs

Skewer some gummies, wrap in cellophane, tie a ribbon — it’s like edible art on a stick.

11. Decorate-Your-Own Cupcake Kits

One cupcake, two toppings, a swirl of frosting = total joy.

12. Mini Cereal Boxes + Spoon

Perfect for sleepovers. Bonus points if you tie on a cute ribbon and a tag that says “Thanks for popping by!”

13. Cookie Cutter + Recipe Card Sets

Pick a theme (animals, stars, hearts), tie a ribbon, and boom — party favor that lasts.

14. Jellybean Guessing Jar

Cute, interactive, and edible. Kids take it home, try to guess, eat a handful, repeat.

15. Themed Snack Packs

Goldfish in a “You’re o-FISH-ally awesome!” bag or animal crackers for a zoo theme. Easy. Punny. Perfection.

16. Homemade Trail Mix Cups

Customizable, allergy-conscious, and not just a sugar rush. Great for outdoorsy or explorer-themed parties.

17. DIY Pizza Kit

Mini crust, sauce, cheese — kids build their own at home. You’re now their favorite parent.

18. Mini Donut Bags

Fresh or boxed — either way, they’re gone in 60 seconds.

19. Honey or Jam Mini Jars

Buy in bulk or make your own. Tie a tag that says “Thanks for sticking with me!” Chef’s kiss.

20. Ice Pop Molds + Recipe Card

Perfect for summer birthdays. Add a card with an easy popsicle recipe. Healthy, fun, and reusable.

These food-inspired party favors are a total slam dunk — zero waste, zero whining, and 100% parent-approved. You feed their bellies and their Pinterest dreams. That’s how you dominate the party favor game.

Outdoor & Active Favors (Because You’re a Hero to Parents Everywhere)

Let’s be clear: giving kids something that gets them MOVING? That’s the ultimate power move. You’re not handing out clutter — you’re handing out freedom. Fresh air. Movement. Maybe even peace and quiet for mom and dad. These favors are the party equivalent of “Go play outside” — but cooler. Bigger. Better. Tremendous.

1. Sidewalk Chalk Buckets

It’s art. It’s outdoors. It washes away in the rain. Truly one of the greatest inventions of all time.

2. Mini Beach Balls

Flat-pack ’em, blow ’em up later. Pool parties, park parties — total hit.

3. Glow Stick Packs

Kids light up, run wild, and parents don’t have to wrangle anyone. You’re welcome.

4. Jump Ropes

Old school? Yes. Boring? Never. These get pulled out over and over again. Huge ROI.

5. Frisbees or Flying Discs

Simple. Classic. Kids love chucking them. Dads join in. Everyone’s happy.

6. Bubble Wands

Not the tiny tubes. We’re talking giant wands with mega bubbles. The kind that spark joy.

7. Mini Sports Balls

Think small soccer balls, foam footballs, bouncy basketballs — they’ll be using these before they get to the car.

8. Kites or DIY Kite Kits

Throw in markers so they can decorate them too. Instant excitement. And a STEM activity.

9. Nature Scavenger Hunt Kit

Checklist + little paper bag + magnifying glass = full afternoon activity. You’ve created memories.

11. Pool Noodles (Mini or Full Size)

Inexpensive and perfect for summer birthdays. Also double as lightsabers, just saying.

12. Parachute Men Toys

They toss them in the air 100 times. You sit down for five minutes. Victory.

13. Water Balloons (Pre-Filled Packs)

Give the favor, and suddenly you’ve got an encore round of party fun. Splashes, laughs, no complaints.

14. Hula Hoops (Mini Versions)

Colorful, energetic, and surprisingly addictive for all ages. Even Grandpa tries it after cake.

15. Binoculars

Not fancy ones — just fun, kid-friendly. Instant explorers. Perfect for adventure-themed parties.

16. Mini Gardening Kits

Trowel, seed packet, and a tiny pot. Outside time with a side of responsibility. Beautiful.

17. Yo-Yos

They’re retro. They’re fun. They frustrate parents and mesmerize kids. An American classic.

18. Velcro Catch Ball Sets

Remember those neon pads with the tennis ball? Still fun. Still satisfying. Still unbeatable.

19. Personalized Water Bottles

Functional, reusable, and necessary for all that outdoor fun. Bonus points if they match your party theme.

20. Mini Flashlights

Perfect for sleepovers, camping parties, or just backyard adventuring. Bonus: helps kids feel brave at bedtime.

These outdoor & active favors don’t just entertain — they exhaust. You’re doing the world a service. No plastic clutter, no candy tantrums — just good old-fashioned FUN that keeps kids moving, laughing, and sleeping like champs afterward. You’re not just hosting a party — you’re hosting a fitness event disguised as a celebration.

Cute & Collectible Gifts (Tiny Treasures, Big Impact)

Let’s face it — kids love cute stuff. Tiny things. Squishy things. Shiny things. And if it comes in a tiny bag or box? Even better. These party favors are small, sweet, and obsession-worthy. We’re talking about the kinds of favors that kids actually keep. You give these out? You’re the GOAT.

1. Mini Plush Toys

Unicorns, puppies, dinosaurs — whatever your theme is, there’s a mini plush for that. They’re cuddly, collectible, and totally lovable.

2. Emoji Pillows

Tiny throw pillows shaped like everyone’s favorite emojis. Kids love them. Parents steal them. That’s a fact.

3. Keychain Charms

Popcorn buckets, mini donuts, sparkly stars — put them on backpacks, lunch bags, or pencil cases. Instant upgrade.

4. Mini Figurines

Think squishy animals, fairies, dragons, or characters from a favorite show. Toss them in a blind bag and boom — it’s a whole experience.

5. Cute Erasers

Not the boring kind — we’re talking sushi, animals, or glittery cupcakes. They don’t even want to use them, they just want to collect them. Love it.

6. Kawaii Sticker Packs

Unicorns, boba tea, sleepy cats — these sticker packs are always a hit. And you can get them in bulk for cheap.

7. Mini Jewelry Boxes

For rings, treasures, or tiny secrets. Add a sticker jewel to the top? You’ve created heirlooms.

8. Glow-in-the-Dark Stars or Animals

Great for bedtime decor, and they’ll remember your party every night when the lights go out.

9. Tiny Puzzle Cubes

Mini Rubik’s cubes, brain teasers, or stacking toys. The kids feel so smart, and the parents feel so grateful.

10. Themed Socks

Fluffy animal socks, silly monster toes, rainbow stripes — practical and Pinterest-worthy.

11. Character Coin Pouches

Zipper pouches shaped like pandas, frogs, or ice cream cones. It’s fashion. It’s function. It’s adorable.

12. Mini Nail Polish Sets

Great for spa parties or glam themes. Toss in some nail stickers and a tiny file for a full DIY mani kit.

13. Collectible Card Packs

Think Pokémon-style cards, but cuter. You can even design your own if you’re extra (and we are).

14. Mini Snow Globes

Little themed snow globes — sparkly, magical, and surprisingly inexpensive if you get them in bulk.

15. Character Gel Pens

With little animals, stars, or food faces on top. They’ll use these every day — and remember your party forever.

16. DIY Name Bracelets

Pre-packaged with letter beads so they can spell their own name. Educational and adorable. Boom.

17. Themed Headbands or Hair Clips

Cat ears, glitter bows, mini tiaras — perfect for photo ops and dress-up play.

18. Mini Toy Cameras (Pretend)

They don’t take real pictures, but they do spark big imaginations. Bonus: no film needed.

19. Squishy Toys

Stress balls, mochi animals, slow-rise squishies — call them what you want, they’re soft and addictive.

20. Tiny Notebooks with Animal Covers

Every kid loves a blank notebook, especially one that looks like a llama or sloth. Add a glitter gel pen? Iconic.

These cute & collectible gifts are tiny treasures that turn your party from “pretty good” to absolutely unforgettable. You’re not just handing out favors — you’re handing out joy, in miniature. And the kids? They’ll be clutching that squishy octopus or glitter pen like it’s gold.

Stores To Get Party Favors

You don’t have to spend a fortune on party favors. Places like Target, Walmart, and your local party stores have a wide variety. But, my secret weapon? Dollar stores.

Yes, you heard right. You can find some hidden gems that are perfect for party favors without spending a ton.

Dollar Store Party Favors

The dollar store is an unexpected goldmine for assembling party bags that delight party guests, especially for kids’ parties. Whether you’re planning for a child’s special day or looking for great party favor alternatives, consider items like coloring books, bubbles, fun socks, or small puzzles. These are not just fun ideas; they’re also good quality options that promise more durability and longevity, ensuring they last beyond just the car ride home.

Do Party Favors Need To Match The Party Theme?

Contrary to the Pinterest-perfect party norm, party favors don’t necessarily need to adhere to your party’s theme. This can be a great deal of relief for any party host.

The reality, especially for kids of all ages, is that the attention to thematic details is often overlooked.

The priority should be on ensuring the party favors are fun, age-appropriate, and something that won’t quickly end up as waste.

Think unique party favors like friendship bracelets or cookie cutters – these can be great alternatives that add a special touch to your goody bags without strictly adhering to the party theme.

What Items Should you Avoid Putting in a Goody Bag?

Avoiding certain items in goody bags can be as crucial as selecting the right ones. It’s a good idea to steer clear of small, easily breakable plastic toys, or overly noisy items – they’re not just a potential safety hazard but can also be a nuisance to other parents.

Candy is another item to be cautious about, particularly due to potential food allergies among the preschool set. Instead, focus on fun party favors that promote creativity (like a box of crayons or photo paper for crafts), encourage outdoor play, or are practical and usable (like fun games or a bouncy ball).

These can be great party bag fillers that offer much fun without the risk of being seen as just plastic crap or a waste of money.