A wonderful holiday tradition and one I've always been a fan of is getting my kids those cute chocolate filled Advent calendars each year leading up to Christmas. When I was a child myself, I loved the anticipation of opening up a new door each day and seeing what chocolate I got. As the doors opened, the number of days until Christmas got smaller {every child's dream}. Only, now as an adult I don't like chocolate ha and I didn't really like it then. My kids aren't big fans of chocolate either. So for me, getting them a treat they don't like defeats the purpose of a treat, especially when there are so many other little gifts out there I know they'll enjoy.
For my homemade Advent calendar, I used simple pocket envelopes, numbered them 1-24, and stuffed them full of little toys and candies. First, I used double sided tape to attach the envelopes to the wall, however, as I stuffed them they got too heavy and started falling off {surprising everyone in the process lol}. So I used a little tack and pressed it inside the envelope to the wall. Works really well and so far nothing has fallen.
The whole project cost me about $15 {for three kids} and I still have leftover candy canes. The kids are totally excited to see what is in each day's envelope and are pretty happy that none of it is chocolate. And if you're going to make your own and are in need of some inspiration, here's a list of fun things to put in your simple homemade Advent calendar!
- Candy canes
- Daily prayer readings
- Inspiring quotes
- Jokes
- Little gum balls
- Socks
- Coins
- Hot chocolate
- Mini lollipops
- Small books
- Homemade coupons
- Nail polish
- Lip gloss/ flavored chap stick
- Dollar store items
- Stickers
- Small art supplies
- Pencils
- Erasers
I'd love to know what you put in your homemade Advent calendars, as I know so many people who make their own. Happy Christmas!