Every year, my good friend Tanya gets way too excited about her family’s advent calendar. I’m talking countdown-themed crafts, tiny treats, and daily activities that keep her family buzzing with holiday cheer. When she told me about it this year, it got me thinking—could something like this work at a childcare business? Spoiler alert: Absolutely!
Using an advent calendar in your childcare can bring joy to the season, help you stay organized, and even sneak a little learning into the holiday fun. Let’s dive into how to make it happen and why you’ll love it just as much as your kids do.
Holiday Magic to Your Childcare Business
Why Advent Calendars Are Perfect for Childcare
The holidays can be magical, but let’s be honest—they can also be stressful. Between keeping kids entertained and managing the chaos of the season, it’s easy to feel like you’re running on empty. An advent calendar is a simple tool that can bring structure, excitement, and a whole lot of joy to your program.
Here’s why:
- Builds Anticipation – Kids love the idea of counting down to something special. An advent calendar gives them a reason to look forward to each day, whether it’s a surprise activity, a small treat, or even a kind word.
- Encourages Participation – The daily “what’s next?” factor keeps everyone engaged. Even the shyest kids will light up when it’s their turn to open the day’s surprise.
- Teaches Patience and Gratitude – Waiting their turn and appreciating small joys? That’s a win-win for social and emotional development.
Related Reading:
- Crafting Christmas Joy: How A Cricut Sparks Holiday Magic in Childcare
- A Joyful (and Organized!) Holiday Season for Your Childcare
What to Include in a Childcare-Friendly Advent Calendar
You don’t have to spend a fortune or pack it with sugary treats. Advent calendars can be as creative (or as simple) as you want. Think beyond the traditional chocolate-filled ones and get inspired by ideas tailored for childcare.
Traditional Inclusions:
- Kid-friendly treats like fruit snacks or cookies.
- Miniature toys like erasers, stickers, or bouncy balls.
- Holiday-themed trinkets (think mini ornaments or jingle bells).
Non-Traditional Surprises:
- Learning activities—simple puzzles, letter games, or counting challenges.
- Daily craft supplies for a new project.
- Fun activity prompts like “Make snowflake art” or “Sing your favorite holiday song.”
- Kindness challenges like “Draw a picture for your family” or “Help a friend clean up.”
How to Use the Advent Calendar in Your Childcare
Setting up and running an advent calendar is easier than you think. Here’s a simple game plan to make it work:
1. Choose Your Calendar Style
You can go DIY with small envelopes, bags, or boxes strung on a line, or invest in a reusable calendar with little compartments. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough for tiny, eager hands!
2. Fill It with Purpose
Mix up your inclusions to keep things fresh. A combination of tangible goodies, activities, and learning moments will make each day exciting.
3. Make It a Morning Ritual
Set aside a time every morning to open the day’s surprise. It’s a fun way to start the day and sets a positive tone for everyone.
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4. Incorporate It into Your Curriculum
Use the calendar as a teaching tool! For example:
- Social Skills: Practice taking turns and sharing the excitement with others.
- Math: Count down the days until the big holiday.
- Art: Create something inspired by the day’s surprise.
Related Reading:
- 15 Great Reindeer Games Daycare Kids Will Love To Play
- Santa’s Playbook: Unwrapping Secrets To Success in Childcare Business
Ready to Make Holiday Magic?
If this sounds like the kind of holiday fun you need in your childcare program, I’ve got you covered. Head over to ThrivingChildcareShop.com to grab our ready-to-use advent calendar. It’s packed with ideas and inspiration to make your season shine.
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Bring Joy to the Holidays and Prosperity to Your Business
Using an advent calendar isn’t just about adding holiday cheer—it’s about creating memories, fostering learning, and building stronger connections with the children in your care. And guess what? When families see how much their kids are enjoying the season, they’ll feel even better about choosing your childcare.
So go ahead, try it out, and watch the magic unfold. This year, let’s count down to a season filled with laughter, learning, and success for your business!
