You know that magical feeling when the holidays are just around the corner? I’ve been daydreaming about creating this fun holiday countdown calendar, like, what’s more exciting than counting down the days to something special? I can still remember how, as a kid, I’d eagerly scratch off the days on my paper chain, but now it feels like life moves so fast—why not take a moment to savor it? I mean, does anyone else find themselves just a little giddy at the thought of tiny surprises waiting behind each door? It’s like gifting yourself a spark of joy every single day! Plus, I can’t help but think: wouldn't it be fun to look forward to something cozy or delicious every morning? There’s just so much joy in anticipation, right?
Items You’ll Need
- Calendar template or printable
- Construction paper
- Markers or colored pens
- Glue stick or glue
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Stickers or embellishments
- Envelopes or small bags for surprises
- Craft knife or cutting tool (optional)
- Digital tools for countdown (app or website)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
First, I gather all my supplies on the table. I have my calendar template ready, construction paper in various colors, markers, a glue stick, scissors, a ruler, and some fun stickers. I also brought some envelopes to hold little surprises for each day.
Step 2: Plan the Design
Next, I take a moment to think about how I want my calendar to look. I decide to use the construction paper to create a festive background. I pull out my ruler to measure and cut the paper to the size I want for my calendar.
Step 3: Cut the Background
With my scissors, I carefully cut the construction paper to fit my calendar template. I choose a bright red and green combination to give it a holiday feel.
Step 4: Attach the Background
Using my glue stick, I attach the cut construction paper to the calendar template, making sure it’s centered and looks vibrant.
Step 5: Create Countdown Slots
I then decide where I want each countdown slot to go. I use my ruler to evenly space them out, marking them lightly with a pencil.
Step 6: Cut Openings for Surprises
For each day leading up to the holiday, I cut small openings using my craft knife, careful not to cut too deep. These will hold my little surprises!
Step 7: Decorate the Calendar
Now comes the fun part! I grab my markers and start decorating the calendar with holiday drawings – like candy canes, snowflakes, and Christmas trees. I also add some stickers to make it even more festive.
Step 8: Prepare Surprises
I fill each envelope with a small surprise for each day, from chocolates to little notes with fun activities. I place each envelope behind the respective opening I've cut.
Step 9: Final Touches
I take a step back to admire my work and make a few final touches, maybe adding more embellishments or color accents. It really starts to feel like a holiday countdown!
Step 10: Use Digital Tools (Optional)
If I want to keep a digital countdown as well, I set up an app or website to remind me of the days left until the holiday. It's fun to have both a physical and digital countdown!
Step 11: Countdown Begins!
Now that my holiday countdown calendar is done, I put it up in a prominent place in my home. Each day, I can’t wait to open the envelope and see what surprise awaits me!