As I watched my kids flip through their generic store-bought calendar, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment. Why did it have to be so boring? I mean, don't they deserve something special that sparks joy every day? You know what I mean, right? So, I got this wild idea—what if I could create a unique calendar just for them? One that’s bursting with colors, drawings, and little notes that speak to their hearts. Imagine a calendar that not only tells the date but also ignites their imagination and makes them excited about the days ahead! It’d be like a treasure map of adventures waiting to unfold. I can already picture their faces lighting up as they discover it together. Wouldn't that be the best surprise for a family filled with endless giggles and dreams?
Items You’ll Need
- Cardstock Paper
- Markers or Crayons
- Stickers
- Binding Clips or Rings
- Hole Punch
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Templates for Calendar Design
- Photo or Artwork Printouts
- Glue Stick or Tape
- Lamination Sheets (Optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
First, I gather all my supplies together on a clean workspace. I have my cardstock paper, markers, crayons, stickers, binding clips, a hole punch, a ruler, scissors, templates for calendar design, printed out photos or artwork, and some glue.
Step 2: Choose Your Calendar Design
Next, I take the templates for the calendar design and choose the one I think will be the most fun. I think I’ll go with a bright and colorful theme, maybe something with animals or space, to keep it interesting for the kids.
Step 3: Cut the Cardstock
Using the scissors, I carefully cut the cardstock paper into the sizes I need for each month. I decide on a standard size, maybe 8.5 x 11 inches, to keep it uniform and easy to handle.
Step 4: Design Each Month
For each month, I take a fresh piece of cardstock and start using my markers and crayons to decorate the header with the month’s name. I can draw little doodles or creatures that fit the theme as well.
Step 5: Add Days and Dates
I then use the ruler to draw a grid for the days of the month. I add the numbers for each day, making sure to leave room for kids to write special events or notes on each square.
Step 6: Decorate with Stickers and Photos
Now comes the fun part! I grab my stickers and start placing them around the calendar. I can add printed photos or artwork related to the month, or fun seasonal images to make it engaging.
Step 7: Punch Holes
Once I’m happy with the design, I use the hole punch to create holes at the top of the calendar pages. I space them evenly so that they line up nicely.
Step 8: Bind the Calendar
With my holes punched, I take my binding clips or rings and thread them through the holes to hold the pages together. This will let the kids flip through the months easily.
Step 9: Lamination (Optional)
If I want to make the calendar extra durable, I can consider using lamination sheets to cover each month. This will protect it from spills and tears, especially with young children.
Step 10: Display and Enjoy
Finally, I find a spot to hang or display our new unique calendar! I’m excited to see the kids use it throughout the year and add their own events and drawings to it.