One of our favorite things about this time of year is looking at the various advent calendars available these days. We had a simple one growing up but never failed to thrill us each morning when it was time to check that day's pocket for goodies.
There isn't much we don't like about this advent calendar by Noix de Coc'. Each box is made of cardboard and comes with a wooden stick that closes it up, securing the treats inside. You can line them up on a window sill or mantel or hang them like a garland. Each box has two blank sides that the kids can customize. We found thsi one at Bodie and Fou but this looks like a great DIY project to do with takeout containers like these.
Image: Bodie and Fou
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I have been hunting for the perfect Advent calendar and think I finally found it: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34713957. It's a good cross between handmade and professional-looking with the beautiful labels they provide. It shipped yesterday so I cannot wait to get it and sew it up by Dec.1st. The one above would take up a lot of shelf/counter space so I really liked the idea of the garland style better (I have more wall than counter space).
Anyone have a list of fun activities you can do with kids for each of the days, rather than give gifts?
I just posted an DIY advent calendar that also doubles as a children's activity center. It is so fun to engage kids in celebrating the season.
http://thecitycradle.com/how-to-homemade-advent-calendar-kids-activity-calendar
Thank you Vicky, I love your advent calendar idea!! I can't wait to do something like this for my family so we can celebrate and worship all month long!
JuliaE, I like the idea of an activities advent calendar too, and have been doing some research online. Here are some good ideas I've seen:
- an evening trip to see the Christmas lights
- hot cocoa with marshmallows
- skiing/sledding outing
- write a letter to Santa
- new ornament to hang on the tree
- choose a Christmas tree
- decorate the tree
- read a new Christmas book
- Christmas craft
- dinner by candlelight
- watch a Christmas movie
- stay up half an hour later
- deliver gifts to friends/neighbours
- attend a Christmas performance
- make a birdfeeder