It’s a tough call because the springtime stuff gets better every season. On the other hand, a basket that is used over and over does have a wonderful sense of permanence and tradition. It also acts almost as a growth meter for your kid (the first year, his basket is bigger than he is, and then all of a sudden he seems to be dwarfing it in the following years’ photos).

If you’re wondering which type of basket to choose, my suggestion is to consider whether you had a single basket when you were a kid (and if you still have it, you’re definitely in the heirloom basket camp). Pottery Barn Kids is well known for their baskets with monogrammed liners, but remember any liner can be monogrammed at a local shop.

If you’re more in the novelty category, either because you like the thrill of new things or you can’t depend on finding and managing the heirloom basket year after year, check out these (pictured above) at World Market. The largest is $9.99 and every one has a little lady bug hiding out. These are so cheerful, you’re assured a great photo op no matter what you put inside. They won’t hold up for years of egg hunting, but they’d be great for nestling a bowl of malted milk eggs or candy next year.

There are plenty of wonderful options for “baskets” now, most with the potential to be used for other purposes throughout the year. Learning Express will personalize an Easter bucket that you can fill with things from their little toy selections (think wind-ups and rubber ducks). Older kids will like a canvas bin, milk crate box or storage basket with fun things. Bed, Bath & Beyond is a good source if you use your $5 off $15 purchase or 20% off coupons.

Look beyond the seasonal Easter aisle for ideas. Suggestions, depending on age and gender:

• Brightly colored flip-flops ($2.99 at Academy or Target)
• A kite – the classic toy and a promise of an afternoon when you’ll both pause to enjoy the weather
• Seed packets (inexpensive and you’re bound to have a pot you can dedicate to your future gardener)
• Sidewalk chalk, bubble wands, stamping pads and stamps, brightly colored paper
• Bicycle/tricycle bell – under $5 and they really will give it a rest after they’ve rung it incessantly the first hour
• Sweatbands for boys, hairbands for girls
• For an older daughter – Burt’s Bees lip balms (wouldn’t that be cute inside one of these little flower baskets?)
• Anything with wheels or movable parts; kids need something to play with immediately
• Candy or some sweet treat is a must

No matter which basket you choose, be forwarned that when the kids get old enough to becompetitive about finding the most eggs (i.e., when they can count above 10), they will look for something that will hold all their eggs without the risk of any of them rolling out. Our innocent little lambs turn into egg-hunting wolves in a very short while, so enjoy all the soft fuzzy Easter years you can.