Last year I started doing a Christmas Chain with Riley. I remember making these chains (for the 25 days until Christmas) as a young girl.
We make it with an “Advent spin”… we read the Christmas story out of Matthew and Luke and draw/write what we learned on the chains. Each night before Riley goes to bed she gets to take one off and read what it says.
All you need for this simple and meaningful craft is construction paper, colored pencils, tape, and your Bible! Easy peasy!
I thought it was so special that today was our first snow fall! So beautiful!
The kids were so excited!
Begin by folding pieces of construction paper in half (rip) and in half again (and rip). This will give you 4 long pieces. Keep going until you have 25 pieces (for 25 days until Christmas.
Read your child the Christmas story and have them draw and tell you what they learned. Draw/write the ideas on the strips of paper. You can also ask them how they might show Christ’s love to others this Christmas season. How can they be less selfish? How may they seek to give and not just receive?
Drawing people on their way to Bethlehem.
Drawing the Shepherds.
Lastly, string the chains together with your child and hang it in their room. Each night, have them take one chain off and read what it says. When all the chains are gone, it’s CHRISTMAS!!!
We even made room for some cookies and cream ice cream!
Now it’s time for you to make this craft with your own children or grandchildren. Have fun!
Thanks for visiting!
Heather says
What a great idea and a wonderful memory from your childhood! I might add this to our Advent activities.
The Keierleber Characters says
The pic of R looks like she is a teenager! She has gotten so big!
You know how much I want to live in New England- your pics of the Winter Wonderland ARE NOT HELPING! 😉 GORGEOUS!!
Christy B says
So cute Traci. I love the pictures. Great job.
Sandpiper says
I used to make paper chains as a kid too! I like how you incorporated it into advent. Thanks for the reminder.
I just read your post below and I share your desire. I took sewing in high school but my projects never turned out very well. When I see the lovely skirts & dresses that some people make for their kids (and themselves), I wish I could make them too! Maybe one day I’ll try my hand at it again.
Blessings!
Donnetta says
What a fantastic and fun idea! I may have to still incorporate this into our season this year.
Love Alone says
This is a wonderful idea, Traci! We’ll be doing this today!!
Sonya Schroeder says
Traci this is an amazing idea. Thank you so much for sharing, I now have 2 new traditions I will be adding to our family this year!!! Hugs