Classic Christmas Countdown

I have been looking for the perfect advent calender for my family for a while now. I finally figured out a pattern I like and was hoping to have it done in time to use this year. However now we’re into the second week of December, and I’m still only halfway done. So I figured it was time for Plan B — that is the classic paper-chain countdown.

Paper Chain Christmas Countdown

I had the girls help me create our paper chain today. It doesn’t get much easier than this. All you need is colored construction paper, scissors (although I prefer a straight paper cutter) and stapler.

Christmas Paper Chain Advent

I’ve seen it done in the past with a yellow strip for Christmas and alternating red and green strips for the days, but my girls also wanted a special strip for the day when Aunt Jenny comes to visit, so instead we cut a red strip to designate Christmas Day, a turquoise strip for the day Jenny comes, and then did the rest of the strips in green.

Cutting Strips

Using the paper cutter to make the 1.5-inch wide strips was definitely a grown-up job, but my girls were old enough to work the stapler with minor assistance.

Stapling the Paper Chain

(Notice my pregnancy belly is right in that lovely spare-tire stage.)

Stapling Too

I think the whole project took less than 10 minutes, which is just about right for my three and five-year-old helpers.

Wrapped Up

Bettijo Bridges

Administrator at Paging Supermom
Bettijo is the founder and designer of Paging Supermom where she shares creative ideas for family fun. Known for practical and kid-friendly activities, free printables and holiday entertainment. Bettijo was a guest on the Martha Stewart Show and has frequently appeared on local TV. Her work has also been featured in national magazines including Real Simple, O, Redbook, Parents, Family Circle, and Health. She enjoys art, retro-modern design, photography and making new things. Mom of 4 kids.

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