'I've cracked the parenting code to Easter (and no, it doesn't include sugar).'

Thanks to our brand partner, Australian Eggs

With two little ones eagerly counting down the days, I'm fully aboard the Easter train this year, heading full steam into a long weekend of family feasts and frivolity.

After a few years of trial and error, I've finally learnt what works — like making sure we actually sit down for family meals — and what doesn't (ahem, sugar overloads).

But the real challenge? Making Easter about more than just hunting for chocolate eggs and turning it into a celebration of shared joy and lasting traditions — something that'll stick around longer than that knob of butter on a hot cross bun. So, here are a few cheat codes I'll be using this year.

Egg-cellent food ideas.

This year, I'm determined to make Easter eggy again.

That means embracing the OG Easter egg — not just the chocolate kind, but the real deal too. The humble egg has 13 essential vitamins and nutrients in each serving and is packed with protein and amino acids, making it a nutritious snack that helps keep the kids fuller for longer.

So, I've turned to the Australian Eggs website to search for some recipes to whip up for family brunches or picnics with friends. 

I've got all the ingredients for the Choc-Orange Easter Pavlova, which would make an irresistible centrepiece for an Easter celebration or an impressive dessert to wow the in-laws, even when they insist you don't need to bring anything. Light and airy, the zesty and creamy combo is a winner every time and the meringue layers can be made a week in advance — ideal for busy parents like us, right?

Easter picnics in the park have been our jam for a few years now, so I'm thinking some Cheese and Veggie Egg Muffins would be appreciated and help balance the treats the Easter bunny leaves behind. They're a cinch to make and a clever way to sneak more veggies into your day.

The jim-jams photo.

Our most precious "tradition" is one that's all about PJs.

Every year, I buy the kids Easter pyjamas and lay them side by side for a photo. Not only are jim-jams the unofficial uniform for slowing down and soaking up the holiday (honestly, PJs all day sound perfect to me), but the photos become a sweet little time capsule.

Looking back, it's wild to see how much they've grown — and yes, I absolutely get teary comparing the years.

My tip? Go for full-length arms and legs so they can upgrade from their summer kit and have something cosy for those chilly nights ahead.

Image: Supplied.

Helping hands.

Easter is the perfect time to give back, even in small ways.

My primary school-aged kids are now old enough to help raise money for causes close to our hearts, so we're brainstorming simple fundraisers to make a difference this year.

It's a shared activity with a side of kindness and compassion — something I love weaving into our traditions. Right now, we're deciding what to bake and sell as our contribution to The Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

Soak up the last drop of hot weather.

Easter is probably the last chance Aussies get to soak up some sunshine before the weather turns chilly. Summer's behind us and with the cooler months creeping in, it's the perfect time to get outside while we still can.

Day trips to the beach or bush are always a winner, not just for a bit of fresh air but for making those core memories.

Image: Supplied.

And if you're after something a little different, there are plenty of events happening around the country to keep families busy. The Sydney Royal Easter Show is a classic, the Fremantle International Street Arts Festival brings the vibes over in the west and here in Victoria, we've got the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach.

So whatever you do, get outside, make the most of it and soak up those last golden days of autumn with your nearest and dearest.

Check out the Australian Eggs website for more recipe inspiration.

Feature Image: Supplied.

Eggs are the Easter OG! There's room for both types of eggs this Easter, the choc kind and the chick kind. For delicious egg recipes to try out this Easter, visit australianeggs.org.au/recipes-and-cooking/