I thought I’d extend the Summer Party “week,” since the Fourth of July seemed to have sucked the life (and ability to write) out of me last week!

One thing that really makes me go “grrrr” are party favors that end up in the trash faster than you can say “Happy Birthday”. For whatever reason, whether it be last-minuteness or the inability to find products locally, parents are still taking the easy way out. It really is possible to find great party activities and favors without breaking your bank or sucking too much time out of you! Here’s an example -

I was recently introduced to Calafant’s recycled cardboard, decorate yourself figure kits, and I’ve been telling everyone I know about them. The Calafant small kits let kids build and decorate dinosaurs, houses, race cars, fire trucks and more. They’re sturdy, and can hold up to markers, crayons, stickers, glitter, paint, anything your kids can think to throw on it. The high quality cardboard allows the toy to stand on it’s own, and they’re fully biodegradable. They may even outlast the junk food! You can buy them in party packs of eight, which puts them under $7 per piece - a very reasonable price for a thoughtful party favor.

I think this is a great main craft for a birthday party as well - no need for a goodie bag! The medium and large kits are even more amazing, with treehouses, forts, and castles that children can play with small dolls and figures. They’re also great for soon-to-be big brother and sister gifts to keep older kids busy with when a new baby comes home, too!