Advent calendar options

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I know what you’re thinking – Halloween is just barely over, why are you posting about Christmas already? Well, bear with me! Those of us who fill our own Advent calendars need to get it done before December 1st, so… it’s gotta happen this month. If you’re like me, you don’t want to buy a bunch of trinkets at the dollar store, because then you’ll just end up with a bunch of clutter. But, if your kids are like my kids, they will become *completely* blasé about the chocolate on day 3, and you’ll need some variety in there to keep things interesting.

I figured I’d give you some ideas of things that don’t usually become clutter, as they are meant to be used up. Note that these can also make good stocking stuffers or Hanukkah gifts, or even party favors for the classroom on your child’s birthday or on Valentine’s Day. Let me know if you have other ideas!

Small gifts to fill an Advent calendar

Knick-knacks that are not disposable so much as consumable:

  • individual-sized bubble wands (0.2 oz.)

  • temporary tattoos

  • balloons (inflating them and playing with them will make my kids surprisingly happy)

  • small candy canes

  • chocolate

  • Hanukkah gelt

  • jelly beans

  • mini Nutella containers (0.88 oz.)

  • popcorn

  • cute tissue packets

  • lip balm

  • crayons / pencils / erasers

  • bubble bath / bath bomb

  • chocolate spoon or individual hot cocoa / hot chocolate packet

  • fun socks

  • gift cards/tickets to an activity (movie, zoo, museum…)

Be aware of which days are weekends or early release days, and plan activities for those – just let it be a surprise for your kids!

Activity ideas:

  • buying / trimming the tree

  • making hot cocoa / hot chocolate

  • making gingerbread people or sugar cookies

  • decorating gingerbread houses

  • driving out to see holiday lights

  • watching a holiday movie

  • doing a puzzle together

  • playing a new card game or board game