Home-made Advent calendar makes the holidays more personal and their commercial equivalents are significantly less meaningful. Aim to tell stories, have sense surprises and engage a family to make every day a magic.
Memory Lane Envelopes. Tie the string over a floor board or even a mirror. Stick 24 kraft envelopes using mini clothespins. Stuff it with written memories- one picture, stub of a ticket, note, etc. of family escapades daily. Day 12: “Are you suggesting a beach picnic? Add an allied confection such as seashell candies. It cannot be substituted because of the emotional appeal.
Activity Adventure Map. Write out a basic world map or the map of a place. Place flags of washi tape 1-24. In the background: A micro-adventure – bake cookies (baking flour included), look at the stars with constellation cards, or call Grandma (her favorite recipe attached). Develops a sense of mutual experiences.
Sensory Surprise Boxes. Find 24 matchboxes, paint them with gilt, and number in a classy way. Interactions (cinnamon stick) Like scent, sounds (small bells), touch (velvet ribbon) and flavours (herbal tea sachets). Day 15: Lavender pouch and sleepytime story prompt. Plays all his five senses to greater delight.
Gratitude Garland. Cut 24 ornaments on paper scrapbook. Make holes, tie on a ribbon to make growing garland. A gratitude prompt, each is armed with colored pencils, what made you laugh this year? Children adorn every day; the aesthetics become tree-like.
Treasure Hunt Chain. Connect 24 chains of paper and each chain has a clue inside it that directs where the treasure hides in the home, a lost toy, a mix CD of the wildest songs that dad listens to, a childhood book of mom. Making the last connection, a group gift such as the hot cocoa night is brought out. Countdown is turned into mystery.
Get templates as free printables; get materials at the dollar stores. Get children involved in assembling- possession increases interest. The prices of these ideas are less than 20 dollars and heirloom is woven in every door.
