Do you know the origin of the Advent calendar?

Advent calendars originated in Germany. Their goal was to help children wait for Christmas day. Advent calendars have changed quite a bit over the years.

In the 19^th century, in certain protestant families, children would receive a religious image every morning during the 24 days leading up to Christmas.

In 1920 appeared the first illustrated calendars with 24 little doors or windows that opened. In 1958 the same type of calendars were augmented with a little chocolate behind each door or window.

These days, there are many kinds of Advent calendars. Did you know that there is a Lego Advent calendar with a Lego piece for each day? Playmobil also has a calendar like that with Playmobil parts and figures.

On the web, you can find very nice animated Advent calendars.

The calendar that I present to you here avoids the commercial aspect and makes the children think. Instead of receiving something, the child gives his or her time by doing small chores to help at home.

You can find the free document with step-by-step instructions here.