Child Friendly Advent Paper-Chain Craft Calendar Instructions

This Christmas as families look for ways to save, one way to create excitement and increase fun is to make a homemade family advent calendar. Such a calendar need not be complex or fancy. It can be constructed with simple household materials found on hand. Simple ideas can do much to make each calendar unique to the needs and desires of the family.

Paper Chain Advent Calendar

One simple advent calendar that is quick to assemble and easy to use is the paper chain. Paper chains are simple and can be made with construction paper, printer paper, or even used magazines or newspaper. Once the paper choice is made, a child (with adult supervision) can cut strips or paper roughly 2 wide by 8 ½ inches long. The use of fancy edge cutting scissors can bring extra style and fun to this project.

How To Construct a Paper Chain

To begin, one loop can be made out of a strip of paper and stapled (or taped) at the ends. The next paper strip is then inserted taking the ends together to create the second loop and so on. Children can be encouraged to create a pattern out of different colors or to count loops to reach the appropriate number of 24 days before Christmas.

Decorate the Paper Chain

Unique decorative elements such as stickers or glued on craft items can add decorative appeal. Craft items such as sequins, feathers, or popped pop corn are preferable because their weight will not affect the hanging of the chain. Marking pens or paint are another option for adding decoration but certain light weight papers may not tolerate excessive additions.

Unique Ideas to Add Calendar Interest

Special Christmas messages can also be added to each slip of paper before they are assembled into the chain. Some parents wish to include scriptural references or tasks and jokes to be read each day. An online search will often offer such lists to be included in your chain or generate your own based on your family's holiday plans and commitments.

Finishing the Paper Chain Advent Calendar

A finished paper chain can be hung vertically so that each ring might be pulled off in succession from the bottom up. Or, a chain can be used to decorate the Christmas Tree. Families with multiple children may find it helpful to construct one chain for each child to avoid confusion over turns at ripping the strips. Counting down the days can be a fun way to prepare for the excitement of Christmas.