DIY: Easter Egg Bath Bombs For Kids

This idea was born from a need to find an alternative to chocolate/candy in Easter baskets. I'm a nanny, and like to make treats for the kids, but not all parents allow candy, or some kids are allergic. This idea has always been a winner. Sure, I could put something in a plastic egg, but I wanted to make it a little more fun. Even if you don't celebrate Easter, you can still use this idea! Read on and enjoy these Easter Egg Bath Bombs:

• large plastic eggs 
• 2 c baking soda
• 1/2 c cream of tartar
• witch hazel
• soap colorant (optional)
• small toys, trinkets (be sure the toy is not a choking hazard)

Mix the baking soda and cream of tartar in a glass bowl.

Add several drops of the soap colorant (this won't stain like food coloring will) and mix. 

If you can use a hand mixer, it will make the process go by much faster. 

Otherwise, mix by hand for about 5 minutes until the color starts to show.

Slowly spray or drizzle witch hazel until the mix starts to stick to itself. 

If you spray too much, the mix will instantly dissolve. 

Pack the mixture into the bottom part of the egg. 

I like using bigger plastic eggs because you can fit a larger toy inside, 

as opposed to the regular size. 

These can be purchased at a craft store or Target, Walmart, etc.

Mix the toy(s) into the top part of the egg. Do not put the egg together yet.

Since both halves will be full, they will balance on their own. 

You can also use an egg carton to store them.

Once they have set for about 10 minutes, 

carefully place the smaller bottom on top of the other half. 

Remove the mold for the smaller half (as pictured).

This will have the egg drying upside down, 

with the top exposed and the rest of the egg in the mold.

Allow it to air dry at least over night.
Carefully remove from the mold and place in the basket once dry. 

You can also wrap it in plastic if you'd like.
This yields about 4 empty eggs or around 3 filled eggs.

Notes:

• To keep it kid-friendly, I don't use citric acid or cornstarch in this recipe, like in traditional bath bombs. Some kids (like me!) have reactions to citric acid. Also, cornstarch can be an irritant in the bath for girls. The eggs won't fizz, but they will dissolve slowly. 
• I've never had kids react to the soap colorant, but avoid if allergic. I've found most boys don't mind if there's color or not!
• If necessary, leave instructions with parent(s) about the eggs, so they'll know what it does/what's inside.
• Please be sure to use toys that are not choking hazards for the child's age or that they're supervised. 

Ideas:

• This is a great idea to get reluctant bath takers (we all know kids who hate baths!) into the tub, at least for a few minutes!
• You don't have to use this in the bath! I've pretended that it was a "fossilized" egg and we didn't put it into the water. Instead, we got out our "tools" and dug into it, looking for the dinosaur/snake/alligator, etc. Popsicle sticks make great "tools." 
• I've also put "treasure" inside, and had kids dig for it and then chip away or put into water. 
• You don't have to use this just for Easter. Use this idea on a rainy day, or one of those days when it's too hot to go outside. 
• Sometimes, when visiting relatives, the relatives are older and might not have toys for the kids to play with (or the houses aren't kid-friendly). Instead of handing them the Ipad for entertainment, I've packed a few for trips, giving kids something to do.   
• Feel free to use a different-shaped mold instead. For example, I use clear, plastic ornaments. 
• Don't feel the need to purchase toys/trinkets. I've added toys they already had, like from Happy Meals, or ones they don't play with very often. They've love the surprise of it. I've used plastic jewelry, animals, robots, cars, 
• For older girls, you can skip the prize inside, if you like. I've used this idea for a Spa Day for a girl's birthday party.
• Add essential oils for scent. You can also mix in body glitter (not gel). I've even added a small, wrapped votive candle (ask parents first if needed).
• Kids love to help make these, and for kids that like to help bake, this is a nice alternative.
• An idea ALL ages will like: wrap money in plastic wrap (or a tiny plastic bag) and seal with tape.

Enjoy!

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