Christmas Count Down Box

If your kids are like mine, they can't WAIT for Christmas. We've had a paper chain going for weeks now. Every day #1 reminds me "Only _____ days until Christmas, Mom!" He's just a BIT excited.

Now, rather than just using a paper chain to count down, I've got a neat way for you to create meaning in the last 12 days of Christmas count down.

You'll need:
Egg Carton
Penny
Binder Clip or Paper Clip
Staple
Pebble
Cotton Ball
Crumpled Paper
Heart Sticker
Nail
Aluminum foil
Tissue
 Rubber Band
String

Put each item in a spot in the egg carton. There isn't any rhyme or reason to the order, because you'll eventually cut out openings on the top of the egg carton (like the chocolate advent calendars) and let them choose which one to open each day. You can print out the slip of paper for the bible verse and idea for each item here.

Some of the bible verses and ideas are.

• Paper clip: Read Ephesians 2:13. Hook the paper clip to a keychain, zipper, or other item. Talk about how that resembles being united with Christ.
• Staple: Read Romans 8:39. Talk about what a staple does, and how that compares with God's love.
• Pebble: Read Matthew 7:24-25. Try to flatten the pebble with your finger. Then set it out as a reminder that Jesus is your rock and your firm foundation.

 For the complete list of all the bible verses and activities use the link above.

I think this is a great way to focus our kids count down  to Christmas! It's quick, simple, toddler and preschool friendly, and most of all you'll have most of the items in your house and you won't have to do much to prepare! What are you waiting for? Go make a Christmas Countdown Box!