Paper Chain Christmas Countdown for Kids

A paper chain countdown is a row of paper rings, one for each day until Christmas. Each morning your child tears off a ring, and the chain gets shorter so little kids can see how many days are left.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Count the days from today until December 25. That is the number of links you need.
2. Cut the paper into strips about 1 inch wide and 8 inches long. An adult can cut stacks at once.
3. Write one idea on each strip, such as “Drink hot cocoa” or “Call Grandma.”
4. Loop the first strip into a ring with the writing inside and glue the ends together.
5. Thread the next strip through the first ring, loop it and glue it.
6. Alternate red and green strips as you build the chain.
7. Hold each new link for 10 seconds until the glue sticks.
8. Punch a hole in the first link, tie a ribbon through it and hang the chain.
9. Each morning, tear off the bottom link and do what it says.

Tips for Little Hands

• Glue sticks are tidier than liquid glue, and tape is quickest.
• Toddlers can color the strips before you assemble the rings.
• Skip staples, which are sharp and can hurt little fingers.
• Number the links with a marker so non-readers can follow along.

Make It Your Own

• Use a candy-cane pattern in red and white.
• Make a bigger chain for the classroom and let each child add a link.
• Write a kind deed on each link, like “Hug someone” or “Share a toy.”