Handprint Christmas Countdown Craft

In our home, we are always looking for fun ways to count down to special holidays and events. I think it helps my boys understand the passage of time, and it builds anticipation and excitement. This year, my youngest son and I made an adorable handprint Christmas countdown.

To make the handprint Christmas countdown with your little ones, you’ll need: 

• a green paper plate
• paint
• paintbrushes
• construction paper
• scissors
• a piece of ribbon
• a stapler and staples

Then, you’ll need to follow these simple steps:

1. Use your child’s hand to make a handprint on the green plate (with white paint), and allow it to dry completely. Then, use paint to add details to Santa’s face.

2. Cut a slit in the bottom of the paper plate, and insert a strip of paper to form a ring. Staple it in place. Continue adding rings until there is a chain of 24 rings (one for each day of advent).

3. Finish the countdown by adding a ribbon at the top of the paper plate.

Starting December 1st, kids can tear off a piece of the paper chain each day, counting down to Christmas!
And, if you are looking for another fun way to make handprint holiday art, why not buy a canvas at the dollar store and let your children make this special project?

Don’t you love the handprint Santa, the handprint reindeer and the handprint Christmas tree? My boys are very proud of the masterpiece they created. 

Don’t forget to get your children to sign and date the canvas because I guarantee it will become a treasured keepsake.