Creating an intangible Advent calendar for your child: a creative alternative

As Christmas approaches, the Advent calendar is an essential tradition to keep children waiting while bringing a touch of daily magic. But what about an alternative to traditional chocolates and toys? The intangible Advent calendar focuses on shared experiences and special moments rather than objects. It allows you to celebrate the value of Christmas through family activities and lasting memories.

The concept of the intangible Advent calendar

Rather than offering material gifts, the intangible calendar offers experiences, moments of sharing or small gestures of attention. The idea is to prioritize moments spent together and to encourage waiting for Santa by cultivating the Christmas spirit: generosity, sharing and love.

Why do we make Advent calendars?

The Advent calendar is a tradition that keeps children waiting until Christmas. It symbolizes the anticipation of the holiday, just like the Advent season for Christians. This practice originated in Germany at the end of the 19th century, where every day until December 24, children received a picture or small present to mark the approach of Christmas. Over time, this tradition has spread and evolved, becoming a fun way to celebrate the excitement of this festive period.

@simonalacreativeroom

What if, this year, we let ourselves be carried away by the magic of Christmas, but not just through the gifts... I like the idea that Christmas is a family celebration that brings us brings them closer to each other. Christmas is not just about gifts, it is also a special time with family. With our Advent calendar, we take advantage of family challenges to strengthen the bonds between everyone.

Here is a suggestion of 25 intangible gifts to slip into an Advent calendar for your child.

25 intangible gift ideas for an Advent calendar

1. Make the tree and decorate it.
2. Make Christmas cookies together and decorate them.
3. A stroll in search of Christmas decorations in the neighborhood.
4. A DIY Christmas decoration making workshop.
5. An afternoon of board games.
6. A moment of reading with a Christmas story.
7. An extra cuddle before bed.
8. A Christmas treasure hunt around the house.
9. Write a letter to Santa.
10. Create a Christmas playlisttogether.
11. A sleepover in front of the tree with hot chocolate.
12. An ice skating outing (if possible).
13. A picnic at home, in the form of a special snack.
14. Make greeting cards for family or friends.
15. A family movie night with the child's favorite Christmas movie.
16. Decorate the house together for Christmas.
17. A creative moment: draw or color Christmas images.
18. A bath with candles for a moment of relaxation.
19. Donate toys together to an association.
20. Listen to an audio Christmas story.
21. Go visit a Christmas market (if available).
22. Plan a special day in bed with books and cuddles.
23. Do a photoshoot with funny Christmas sweaters.
24. Offer a “voucher to choose dinner” in the evening.
25. Look at the stars and make a wish for next year

Don't hesitate to print this Christmas printable!

The advantages of an intangible Advent calendar

An intangible Advent calendar helps strengthen family ties

1. Strengthens family bonds: every day is an opportunity to share a precious moment with your child, to create lasting memories.
2. Brings Christmas values: instead of focusing on objects, the child learns to value experiences and time spent together.
3. Less overconsumption: it makes it possible to limit the purchase of small objects that are sometimes useless or disposable, thus participating in a more responsible approach.
4. Encourages creativity: it stimulates the imagination, because each activity is a surprise that comes out of everyday life.
5. Accessible to everyone: Most ideas do not require significant expenses, making them an economical option.

The disadvantages of an immaterial Advent calendar

Organization for a successful Advent calendar!

1. Requires more time: unlike material gifts, which do not require involvement, certain activities take time to organize and carry out.
2. Children's disappointment: Some children may be disappointed not to receive small items, especially if other family members or friends have a more traditional schedule.
3. Organization in advance: it is necessary to prepare the schedule of activities and ensure everyone is available to enjoy the moments together.

Why choose an intangible Advent calendar?

The intangible Advent calendar allows you to fully experience the value of Christmas through moments shared with family. It encourages waiting for Santa not by collecting objects, but by savoring the excitement of the preparations and the warmth of the memories created together. This enriching approach brings another dimension to the end-of-year festivities, teaching children that the greatest gift is to experience these moments of happiness together.

Never let the magic of Christmas die out, this time when every moment shared with family becomes precious. Celebrate the joy of being together, exchanging, laughing and creating unforgettable memories.

I share with you a special Christmas playlist by Simona.