We created our first Christmas paper chain this week. A project exactly on my toddler’s level: he gets to use scissors and glue sticks which make him very happy. Also, it’s something that comes together quickly and that can be enjoyed throughout the month. He doesn’t yet understand the concept of a calendar or counting down the days, but this is a learning tool. We had such a nice time putting it together.
Each morning (that’s been two mornings thus far) he gets to snip a link off the chain. I’ve made up some stickers with special activities written on them, like bake cookies, make snow angels, finger paint. Trying to come up with an activity for every day of the advent was daunting, as was the concern that he might snip off the link that says “make snow angels” on a day we haven’t any snow, or “bake cookies” when I’ve just run out of eggs. So, I’m keeping the stickers separately and adding them to the links on days that work for me. You know how it is.
I’m going to assume you don’t need actual instructions for making a paper chain, but if it is your first attempt, I suggest using pretty paper printed on both sides, and keeping your paper strips about 8 inches long and 2 inches wide, give or take. Makes a longer, prettier chain and the strips are easier to glue with about a half inch or more of overlap.
Another option would be to jot down acts of kindness on some or all of the links, things your kids can do for others. Alternately, jot acts of kindness on the strips as you add to the chain, rather than when removed, and see how long it gets before christmas!
Kimberly
...by day, making a home where the buffalo roam. By night, pretty much the same thing, punctuated by the occasional fantasies of sunny beaches, italian movies and sparkling lemonade.
I love paper chains and I still do them. And I don't even have kids. In fact, they are soooo easy my fiance and I made one, which made me laugh when I read that it was on your toddlers level!
We have 3 rings left…. 3 days til our wedding :)
Now, I should have written a nice thing for him to do for me each day….
Dandy, that is a darling idea. and when I say "on my toddler's level" I mean it's not too complicated or messy for me!
What a cute chain, I love that paper. And I've always meant to add little fun activities to do with paper chains. Looks like fun!
I love the paper you used for your chain!! And putting activities on the back of them is such a great idea!! Fabulous!
KJ,
The activity thing is adorable. My kids each made a chain at school and even though it's totally old-school it's their favorite thing right now!