Frecklebox

Honest to Martha Stewart, I swear that coming up with party favors is one aspect of parenting that I was not prepared for. I thought I had the best idea, decorative Chinese food take out containers filled with Mini Play-Doh and Fig Newtons for our toddler guests, but then, a month before my daughter’s birthday, we received the SAME favors at a three year old’s birthday party. Crap.

Then, salvation came in a small add in the back of one of my half-dozen parenting magazines. Frecklebox.com is an on-line resource for customized books and gifts. Frecklebox has a great variety of books, artwork, stickers and other customizable gifts. But, my favorite items are the customizable coloring and activity books. The coloring books are great for toddlers and the activity books for kids a bit older.

At only $6.95 each, they are a reasonably priced and absolutely AWESOME party favors for your next event. Pair it up with a little box of crayons and a bow, and you are good to go. I plan on getting some made up for parties and get-togethers where little ones may not be the focus of the event as well, so that they feel special and have something to do while mommy and daddy eat finger sandwiches and speak to adults about anything other than Elmo.

Their customer service is excellent and their shipping is quick. Obviously, you need to plan ahead, so last minute add-ons to a party list may not work, but if you can be organized and plan ahead, this is a party favor that will have your guests looking forward to your next event!