Advent Calendars

Inside: A round-up of Christmas countdown calendars.

Yesterday Sandi, from rubber boots and elf shoes, was wondering if anyone had any ideas for a Christmas countdown calendar, other than the ubiquitous Santa with the cotton puff beard.

The bearded Santa is the one I've done every year, but when she expressed a desire for change, it got me thinking, too.

So I started searching online for alternatives.

I have to tell you!!! there are TONS of advent calendar ideas out there but not many that kids can actually make.

Here's what I finally came up with. Not all of the images are linked just yet as I'm in the middle of updating this post.

1. Paper Chain Countdown

I used to do these with my class years ago, but unfortunately I didn't take any pictures. But you can find some great photos and directions from the Modge Podge Rocks blog.

Image Source: Modge Podge Rocks

2. Trim Santa's Beard Countdown

I thought this idea from Gluesticks was very original. I haven't seen this idea anywhere else. The entire Santa is made out of paper and once it's complete, all you do is trim off a piece of the beard.

Image Source: Gluesticks

 

3. Christmas Countdown Tree

This beautiful and free printout is available from Made to Be a Momma. It's a full colour printable which makes it perfect for quick and easy home use. 

Image Source: Made to Be a Momma

4. Countdown Christmas Tree in B & W

If you're looking for an advent tree for the classroom, then this one from the Printables Fairy will be a better choice as it's in black and white. Perfect for the photocopier, right? Plus, your kids could get super creative in how they decorate the ornaments each day.

Image Source: Printables Fairy

Hmmm....so hard to decide, but I think they'd all be wonderful choices for a fun way to count down the days until Christmas.

BTW,  here's my own quilted Advent Calendar that I bring to school each year. I use this in addition to the individual calendars the kids have. I put chocolate in each of those trains (they have little pockets) and each day the special helper gets a chocolate. 

 

I'd love to see what your kids will be making for a Christmas countdown calendar. Be sure to let me know ... and Sandi, too :)

You might also like these Santa beard and Christmas tree countdown sheets that are super easy for kids to make.

If you enjoyed this post be sure to sign up for email updates.