The December tradition of opening the doors of an advent calendar to help kids count down the days until Christmas makes these dark winter days light and frothy with anticipation.

To make it even more fun this year, why not try this twist on the old calendar? Instead of filling each day with a chocolate or small toy, put a clue in its place. Let the kids search for their daily surprise!

For example, one clue might read, “I can be found in the coldest place in the house, as close as you will get to the North Pole!” (The prize can be found in the freezer!)

If you are creative and have the time to think up some clues, the kids will have a great time searching to find their daily treat and anticipating the clues to come.

Happy Holiday Countdown!

--Lisa Kothari, Peppers and Pollywogs