It can be overwhelming, keeping up with all the new children's books published every year. Add in trying to find the ones worth reading, much less buying and it's easy to just pull out How the Grinch Stole Christmas for the umpteenth time.

This list will help you with your quest for magical new Christmas books to read to your children as they cozy up with hot cocoa and visions of sugarplums.

I update this list each year with handful of favorites and hidden gems. So trim the tree, hang up a few paper snowflakes and start your Christmas reading!

Note: this list contains Amazon and Bookshop affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may earn a commission for this blog. Bookshop also supports independent bookstores.

2023

The Twelve Hours of Christmas by Jenn Bailey, illustrated by Bea Jackson

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

This refreshing retelling of the classic Christmas song celebrates family. During the first hour of Christmas, Santa leaves a kitten. For the rest of the lively tale (which you won't be able to resist singing!), readers will love to spot the clever feline in the illustrations. Utterly delightful!

Lullaby for the King by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Michelle Carlos

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

In this gorgeous nativity book, the focus is on a parade of animals, both exotic and ordinary, and their journey to meet the new King. The story begins with the animals learning of the birth. They parade over long distances, bringing gifts of music, perfume and luxury. Grimes is a poet and her text is lyrical, moving and peaceful. Looking for a a nativity picture book? This is the one you need.

How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Dynamic duo Barnett and Klassen are back with a hilarious picture book that ponders the eternal Christmas conundrum. How exactly does Santa fit down the chimney? There is much speculation. Some of it hilarious, some outrageous and some impossible. Which answer will your kids choose?

2022

The Christmas Book Flood by Emily Kilgore, illustrated by Kitty Moss.

Find it: Amazon

In recent years, the Icelandic tradition of Jolabokaflod, or Christmas Book Flood has become more widely known. On Christmas Eve in Iceland families give books to each other and then spend the rest of the evening reading. What's not to love about that! Well, now you can add Jolabokaflod  to your family's holiday celebration by reading this joyous, rhyming, beautifully illustrated new Christmas book! 

MORE: Timeless Christmas Books

2021

The Real Santa by Nancy Redd, illustrated by Charnell Pinkney Barlow.

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

I adore this sweet and cozy Christmas book, which imparts the magical wonder of believing in Santa. A boy sees so many versions of Santa–on ornaments, figurines, wrapping paper, books, etc. He wonders which version truly reflects what Santa looks like so he comes up with a plan to find out. One of my favorite parts is all the outfits the extended family members don! Christmas sweaters and matching PJs enhance the cozy feeling.

2018

The Christmas Extravaganza Hotel by Tracey Corderoy, illustrated by Tony Neal

Find it: Amazon

This is a marvelous book to read aloud! So much fun to do the voices! A frog shows up at the home of a bear thinking it is the Christmas Extravaganza Hotel. The bear tells him he is not at the right place but invites him in. He takes a look at the brochure the frog has and tries to make the frog's Christmas experience live up to the crazy activities in the brochure. Both frog and bear have a delightful time and forge a new, lifelong friendship. Super duper fun as well as heartwarming.

MORE: Funniest Christmas Books

This is Christmas by Tom Booth

Find it: Amazon

A cute little chipmunk wants to know what Christmas is. “What is Christmas, Mama?” he asks. His mother then takes him on a tour through the landscape. Little chipmunk sees the activity around him, like geese singing, and badgers decorating and each time he asks him mama, "Is this Christmas?" She answers yes, each thing is a part of Christmas. At the end, on Christmas morning, the chipmunk experience the community celebrating and the joyful understanding of what Christmas is truly all about.

Silent Night by Lara Hawthorne

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

The illustrations in this book are gorgeous! The text is the classic Christmas song, and you may not be able to resist singing as you go along. The cast of characters is diverse, and Mary and Joseph are depicted with dark skin. I love the boldness of the black sky and the overall serene feeling of the book. Even if your family celebrates a secular Christmas, this is a beautiful book to share and teach the story of the Christ child story.

Construction Site on Christmas Night by Sherri Duskey Rinker

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

I don't think there is much chance you will miss this latest Christmas installation in the very popular Construction Site picture book series. However, the series has been a good friend to my youngest son and so I include it here, not just for him, but because I am certain your children will also enjoy it.

Coming Home by Michael Morpurgo

Find it: Amazon

This is a beautiful, poetic new Christmas picture book that will put you in a lovely, serene mood just in time for the chaos of Christmas morning. The action is narrated by a migrating robin who wishes to get home. Along the way he encounters difficult weather and choppy seas, but gets help from a kind human. The end note gives information about the migration habits of the Scandinavian robin, which migrates at Christmastime each year.

MORE: Swedish Winter and Christmas Books

Last Stop on the Reindeer Express by Maudie Powell-Tuck, illustrated by Karl James Mountford 

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

A magical, mysterious mailbox sends the bespectacled Mia on an adventure to meet up with her grandpa during the Christmas season. The book is a charming, interactive experience: flaps to lift, doors to open and die cut pages to wonder at. Great fun and very inventive.

MORE: Best Picture Books about Snow!

2017

Waltz of the Snowflakes by Elly MacKay

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

This beautiful, wordless Christmas picture book is a lovely story that is perfect to read in tandem with your yearly trek to see The Nutcracker. At first, a girl does not want to get dressed up to go out in nasty weather to the ballet. But once she arrives, the magic takes over. She and her mother sit next to a boy and his father and the children's faces light up at the stage action. Gorgeously illustrated double page spreads capture the magic of the show.

MORE: Nutcracker picture books, middle grade and graphic novels

The Little Reindeer by Nicola Killen

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

This Christmas story is adorable. Ollie loves reindeer! She wears a little reindeer suit and carries around a stuffed toy. On Christmas Eve she hears jingle bells and goes outside to investigate! What does she find? A magical adventure and a reindeer, of course! Sweet and lovely!

2016

Presents Through the Window by Taro Gomi

Find it: Amazon

My son loved the quirky humor in this Christmas book! Santa heads out in his helicopter to deliver presents. He is in a hurry and he peeks through the windows to make sure he delivers gifts to the correct recipients. But he doesn't exactly get things right! Clever die-cut pages add to the fun and giggles. Don't worry! Everything goes right in the end.

2015

Miracle on 133rd Street by Sonia Manzano, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

On Christmas Eve, José's family is getting ready for a big dinner, but when the roast won't fit in the oven, José and Papi ask for help from the local pizzeria. On their way they notice that their neighbors are not feeling the Christmas spirit. But once the roast is finally ready, the delicious smell brings everyone together to recapture the true spirit of the holidays. A wonderful, diverse celebration of a book!

MORE: Christmas picture book featuring diverse traditions

The post New Christmas Picture Books (Updated 2023) appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

We recreated the look of Scandinavian woven heart basket ornaments with a kid-friendly version using a sponge painting technique.

(Note: this post contains affiliate links that earn commission from qualifying purchases.)

Originally I planned to do the actually weaving part with my kids, and although woven hearts are not exactly rocket science, I knew that my kids would get frustrated very, very quickly. Remember, we only do EASY holiday crafts. Our version of the woven heart is so easy, even preschoolers or toddlers can make it.

The first step to making these heart ornaments is to read the SPLENDID book, Christmas in Noisy Village by Astrid Lindgren. This is my must read Christmas book. It's a cozy story about neighbor children preparing for the holiday. You can find the book(and more!) on my list of Swedish Christmas books. The book depicts a Swedish holiday tree adorned with the ornaments!

What you need:

• Red and/or green paper
• Heavy card stock or thin cardboard to make the template, or a heart shaped cookie cutter
• Pencil
• Glue stick
• Scissors
• White paint
• Kitchen sponge cut into a strip with a small square shape at one end

Instructions: 

Draw half a heart on the thin cardboard and cut out to make the template. If you have a heart shaped cookie cutter you can skip this step and simply trace your hearts using the cutter.

To make the heart for the ornaments, fold the red or green paper in half. Line up the template with the folded side of the paper. Trace and cut out. Unfold the colored paper for the full heart.

Cut out as many hearts as you want!

Dip the small square end of the sponge in white paint. Make impressions on the heart shaped paper in a checkerboard pattern to mimic the traditional design of Swedish woven heart ornaments.

Kids can decide if they want to mimic the look of a woven heart or just stamp freestyle. Follow your kids' natural creative instincts!!

Cut several narrow strips of paper red and green paper. These will be the handles. If you want the ornaments to be traditional basket hearts glue two hearts together, applying glue only along the bottom-side edges. Then, affix one end of a paper strip to the top of one heart, the other end to the top of the other heart to make a basket handle.

If want single hearts instead of baskets, simply glue the strip on the ornaments as a loop for hanging.

Finally, adorn your tree with the ornaments and then go read more Christmas picture books!

So what do you think? Is this "woven" paper heart not the easiest Swedish Christmas craft ever? If we can do it, so can you!

More: Swedish Christmas books and Scandinavian folktales are perfect for snuggle time after your ornaments are on the tree.

Or, make our cutest ever tomten garland and then read some tomten books.

The post "Unwoven" Swedish Heart Ornaments: Easy Christmas Craft appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

Inspired by Astrid Lindgren's, The Tomten, my kids and I just finished making a tomten garland for our annual Swedish-themed Christmas celebration. While the tomte is a prominent feature of Scandinavian Jul, he doesn't belong solely to the Christmas tradition.

(Note: book covers and titles are affiliate links that earn commission from qualifying purchases.)

Take note! The tomte is NOT a Swedish Santa. He's not as capricious as an elf, and soon you'll be wishing your house had it's own bearded helper. These tomten books cover the entire year, from Spring to Christmas, so you'll never be without a helpful yet mischievous, friendly yet grumpy, folkloric house gnome!

The Tomten by Astrid Lindgren. You cannot go wrong with this splendid classic. This lyrical picture book should be on every child’s bookshelf. Across Scandinavia tomten watch over farms while the humans sleep. They are quiet and strong, and talk to the animals, comforting them during the cold winter nights.

MORE: Swedish holiday and winter picture books

The Tomten and the Fox by Astrid Lindgren. A solitary fox is hungry and the hens look tasty. The watchful, protective farm tomten shares his dinner with the hungry creature in this gentle companion book to The Tomten.

Findus and the Christmas Tomte by Sven Nordquist. The Findus books are a popular series of Swedish children's stories. Pettson's talking cat, Findus is looking forward to a visit from the Yule Tomte. However, Pettson doesn't think the Yule Tomte visits cats. He doesn't want to disappoint Findus so he sets out to build a tomte himself! Funny and magical.

The Tomtes' Christmas Porridge by Sven Nordquist. Contemporary Swedish children's author, Sven Norquist, penned this funny little story about a tomte family who looks forward to the rice pudding their master gives them at Christmastime.

The Yule Tomte and the Little Rabbits: A Christmas Story for Advent by Ulf Stark and Eva Ericksson. This book is separated into 24 short chapters, with marvelous illustrations. One story is read on each day of advent. Grump the tomte is waiting for Yule (Christmas) when all of a sudden a wind blows his mittens and hat away and into the hands of a couple of rabbits. The rabbits are delighted with their strange gifts, but the tomte worries he won't be able to bring Christmas to the forest without his necessary garments. A wonderfully delightful story.

The Midsummer Tomte and the Little Rabbits, a companion book to the above selection is 21 chapters to read in June about how the rabbit children take shelter from a storm in Grump the tomte's cottage but still manage to celebrate with a wonderful Midsummer party.

MORE: Folktales from Scandinavia (Iceland, Greenland, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark!)

Little Tomte's Christmas Wish by Inkeri Karvonen and Hannu Taina. Little Tomte is worried that Christmas won't come this winter. He comes up with a special way to prepare, making candles and lighting the forest in a magical way. The pictures in this one are especially fun to look through.

Winterfrost by Michelle Houts. (novel) A nisse is the Danish version of tomte. Families are supposed to leave the nisse a traditional bowl of Christmas pudding on the eve of the holiday, but this year, Bettina’s family is beset by troubles and they forget the pudding. In a fit of mischief, the local nisse, Klakke, steals the family baby! Bettina sets out into the woods to find her sister and encounters more mythological creatures and adventure in this tale of magic and kindness. Break out the pepparkakor because you will love this story.

Note: Winterfrost is also a terrific audiobook! 

Hedgie's Surprise by Jan Brett. Set in the summertime, the mischievous Tomten keeps stealing the hen's egg. Hedgie the hedgehog concocts an elaborate plot to finally convince Tomten to instead be satisfied with his mother's porridge.

The Tomtes of Hilltop Farm. Author Brenda Tyler has several books about tomte of Hilltop. Farmer Robinson has trouble with naughty farm animals and failing crops and has to put his farm up for sale. Children, Emily and Jamie and ask the local tomten to help them save the farm. Also see the companion book, The Tomtes of Hilltop Wood in which the tomte help Emily and Jamie save their home from road construction.

Are you confused by the words, tomte, tomten and tomtes? When translators or English speaking authors use the word, there seems to be no rule. In Swedish, tomte is singular and tomten is plural.

The post Tomten Books: Meet the Nordic Gnome appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

But you don't need to be an interfaith family to enjoy this book list! Along with our favorite Hanukkah books, and multicultural Christmas books, these titles can be enjoyed by kids and families of any faith.

Note: this list contains Amazon and Bookshop affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may earn a commission for this blog. Bookshop also supports independent bookstores.

Books about Interfaith Families

You don't need to be part of an multicultural and interfaith family to appreciate these books as long as you remember: Hanukkah is not the Jewish Christmas!

Daddy Christmas and Hanukkah Mama by Selina Alko

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

In this cheerful story, a young girl describes her family's unique traditions like caroling to the neighbors, telling stories about both the Maccabees and the manger, and making latkes to leave for Santa. Family members from both sides come together for one large celebrations than having separate events for each holiday. There is also a recipe for Cranberry Kugel stuffing: the ultimate interfaith side dish!

The Trees of the Dancing Goats by Patricia Polacco

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

As Trisha prepares for Hanukkah with her family she learns that the neighboring Christian families are affected by a scarlet fever epidemic. Unable to enjoy the holiday celebrations while their neighbors are suffering, Trisha’s family work together to help them. A wonderful, positive story about finding joy in giving to others.

The Latke Who Couldn't Stop Screaming: A Christmas Story by Lemony Snicket, illustrated by Lisa Brown

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Tongue-in-cheek humor and an anthropomorphic potato pancake make this hilarious book one of my holiday favorites. After escaping from a hot frying pan, a Hanukkah latke runs through a forest encountering various Christmas icons like candy canes and holiday lights. Each one tries to convince him that Hanukkah is “just like Christmas, only different.” Eventually the frustrated latke finds his place with an understanding Jewish family. Unfortunately, they are just sitting down to dinner...

Light The Lights! A Story About Celebrating Hanukkah And Christmas by Margaret Moorman

Find it: Your Library | Amazon

For those looking for a secular exploration of the two holiday traditions, this book fits the bill. In a simple story, a girl describes how her family prepares for the two holidays.

My Two Holidays: A Hanukkah and Christmas Story by Danielle Novack, illustrated by Phyllis Harris

Find it: Your Library | Amazon

At school, Sammy worries that his friends won’t understand his interfaith family. Although it is hard to imagine anyone being embarrassed about celebrating both Christmas and Hanukkah, this is a nice, short story for teaching kids about the joys of practicing multiple religious traditions.

My Two Grandmothers by Effin Older, illustrated by Nancy Hayashi

Find it: Your Library | Amazon

Grammy Lane lives in the country, Bubbe Silver lives in the city. Their granddaughter loves both of them and their respective traditions but this year she decides it’s time to bring everyone together.

Elijah’s Angel: A Story for Chanukah and Christmas by Michael J. Rosen, illustrated by Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson

Find it: Your Library | Amazon

This is a beautiful and moving story about religious tolerance. An African-American barber gives a Jewish boy a carved wooden angel. Michael worries that he will offend his parents and God if he keeps it. When he tells his parents of Elijah’s gift they share with him the joy of having friendships that transcend religious boundaries. The illustrations are gorgeous. Due to some sensitive subject matter, I recommend this book for ages 7+.

Eight Candles and a Tree by Simone Bloom Nathan

Find it: Your Library | Amazon

Sophie tells her friend Tommy about how her family celebrates both Hanukkah and Christmas. In doing so, they learn the most important thing about the holidays is spending time with family.

Nonna's Hanukkah Surprise by Karen Fisman, illustrated by Martha Graciela Avilés

Find it: Your Library | Amazon

Rachel is headed to Italy to visit her grandmother. She worries that she will miss Hanukkah and takes along her menorah. When she forgets her menorah on the airplane, her non-Jewish grandmother steps in to save the day.

December's Gift: An Interfaith Holiday Story by Ashley Smith-Santos and Stasie Bitton, illustrated by Sandra Salsbury

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Clara spends December with her two grandmothers, baking Christmas cookies with one and frying latkes with the other. Like most of the books on this list, the overriding lesson is that holidays are about family above all.

MORE: Want more holiday picture books? Try one of these Multicultural Winter Holiday Picture Books.

Books about Community Hanukkah and Christmas Celebrations

The following books are not about interfaith families per se, but about the co-existence of Hanukkah and Christmas. Also check out our favorite winter picture books.

Red and Green and Blue and White by Lee Wind, illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

This picture book is based on a 1993 incident in Billings, Montana. In a neighborhood adorned with red and green lights, one house stands out with its blue and white lights. Isaac's family celebrates Hanukkah and his friend, Teresa, who lives across the street celebrates Christmas. After Isaac's house is targeted in an anti-semitic attack, Isaac's family continues to light the menorah rather than hide. In solidarity, Teresa draws a menorah and places it in her window. The paper menorah becomes a catalyst for community solidarity. Includes author's note about the real life events.

MORE: Picture books about standing up for others

The Hanukkah Magic of Nate Gadol by Arthur A. Levine, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Think of this as a pourquoi tale for Hanukkah gifts! Nate Godol is a spirit who uses his magic to make things "last as long as they needed to." He loves bringing small joys to others as well as solving larger problems. In 1881, Nate Gadol watches the immigrant Glaser family suffer through a cold and hungry winter. But then he meets his old friend, Nick, whom he knew from "way, way back." Nick is having trouble with his sleigh and the two realize that if they help each other, they can bring joy to all families.

The Christmas Mitzvah by Jeff Gottesfeld, illustrated by Michelle Laurentia Agatha

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

Mitzvah is the Hebrew word for a good deed that is done to fulfill a commandment from God. In this inspiring story, Al Rosen, a Jewish man, performs mitzvahs for his neighbors every Christmas by working their shifts so they can celebrate their Christmas holidays at home. The neighbors return the favor on the Jewish High Holidays of Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah. Gottesfeld based his story on the real-life Al Rosen who performed the mitzvahs for many years, beginning in 1969. Includes author's note. Ages 5 and up.

Boris and Stella and the Perfect Gift by Dara Goldman

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Goldman's story about two bears is a retelling of O. Henry's short story, "The Gift of the Magi." Boris, who celebrates Hanukkah and is from Russia, and Stella, who celebrates Christmas and is from Italy are neighbors and friends. Each wants to get the other a special holiday gift, but both have limited funds. This is a sweet story about two individuals who seek to show kindness to each other.

Dear Santa, Love, Rachel Rosenstein by Amanda Peet and Andrea Troyer, illustrated by Christine Davenier

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

Rachel is Jewish but she really wants to celebrate Christmas like her classmates so she secretly writes a letter to Santa. Santa doesn't visit, however. When Rachel's family has their Christmas dinner at a Chinese restaurant, she finds other families that also don't celebrate Christmas.

The Only One Club by Jane Naliboff, illustrated by Jeff Hopkins

Find it: Your Library | Amazon

Jennifer is the only Jewish member of her school class. When her classmates want to join her "only one" club, everyone discovers their individuality.

Oskar and the Eight Blessings by Tanya Simon and Richard Simon, illustrated by Mark Siegel

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

A boy arrives in New York after living through Kristallnacht. It is the 7th night of Hanukkah as well as Christmas Eve and he must walk 100 blocks to find his aunt. Along the way he sees the holiday sights of the city, encounters people who show him kindness, and passes landmarks which inspire him to reflect on his circumstances.

Don't miss our printable interfaith ornament!

The post Holiday Picture Books about Interfaith Families (Hanukkah and Christmas) appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

I have a history of being cheap frugal but one year I finally broke down and spent money on an advent calendar for the kids and it was so much fun that I've never looked back. This year I even bought myself my very own advent calendar! Alternatively, you can invest in a reusable advent calendar so you don't have to buy one every year.

Here's a tip: if you love one of these unique advent calendars for kids, don't wait! The most popular advent calendars sell out quickly!

(Note: this post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through affiliate links may earn commission. Bookshop also supports independent booksellers.)

Build-It Advent Calendars

These advent calendars are so fun to build, but they sell out fast. Each day kids work to put together a village scene. The projects are excellent for encouraging kids to use their engineering skills, asd gives kids a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Plus, the completed project is very cute! There are three different calendars to choose from: Winter Wonderland, Santa's Railroad and Christmas Village.

Find all three: Kiwico Advent Calendars

Books-Themed Calendars

Children's book lovers rejoice! There are some great book-themed advent calendars.

Harry Potter Pop-Up Advent Calendar

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

This amazing Harry Potter Pop-Up Advent Calendar is new this year and my kids were so excited when Insight sent us one to try out! A large, sturdy book opens and up pops a huge Christmas tree. 24 doors open to reveal ornaments to hang on the tree each day. The final door reveals a large star for the top. There is also an unnumbered door that conceals a booklet filled with interesting facts about Harry Potter and the Harry Potter films.

The Yule Tomte and the Little Rabbits: A Christmas Story for Advent, by Ulf Stark and Eva Ericksson

Find it: Bookshop | Amazon

What could be better than a calendar that is actually a book! This book is separated into 24 short chapters, with marvelous illustrations. One story is read on each day of advent. Grump the tomte is waiting for Yule (Christmas) when all of a sudden a wind blows his mittens and hat away and into the hands of a couple of rabbits. The rabbits are delighted with their strange gifts, but the tomte worries he won't be able to bring Christmas to the forest without his necessary garments. A wonderfully delightful story.

Surprise Variety Calendars

Each of these marvelous surprise calendars features beloved characters and themes from popular movies. The calendars open like a book to reveal 24 envelopes. Inside each envelope is a small gift. The gifts are items such as ornaments, key chains, buttons, door hangers, booklets and more.

These advent calendars will turn the countdown to Christmas quite magical for a fan of any of the themes.

Star Wars: The Galactic Advent Calendar

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

The recipe cards for Star Wars themed treats are quite the delightful addition. Plus, I love the lightsaber pencils. That should get any kid writing with the Force.

Harry Potter Holiday Magic: Creatures of the Wizarding World

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

When your Harry Potter fan is hard at work studying for their O.W.L.S., they will love opening an envelope each day to find one of the magical creature-themed holiday surprises.

The Official Batman™ Advent Calendar

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

The kids in my house are bit comic book fans. If yours are too, they will love these advent calendar surprises inspired by Gotham City and its superheroes and villains.

Marvel: The Official Advent Calendar

Find it: Amazon | Bookshop

DC or Marvel? How does one choose which super-universe is superior. That is way above my pay grade. Only your child can tell you.

The Best Toy Advent Calendars

LEGO Advent Calendars

Find it: Amazon

We absolutely adore the LEGO advent calendars, and I started buying one for each kid every year. My youngest always wants Star Wars, and my oldest got the CITY set. Each door opens to reveal a minifigure or a mini-build. Some of the figures are exclusive to the set. The boxes fold out to create a scenic mat for pretend play. The best part of this set is that it keeps your kid busy for more than 30 seconds. This year there is also a new LEGO Marvel advent calendar (which my husband may be getting this year).

LEGO also has a new Harry Potter advent calendar. I may have bought one for myself. (Okay, I did.)

---

Jigsaw Puzzle Calendar

Find it: Amazon

Families who love jigsaw puzzles can find a variety of jigsaw puzzle advent calendars suitable for all ages. I like the old-fashioned illustration on this one. Each day a numbered box contains part of the puzzle so that by the time Christmas arrives, the entire puzzle will be finished! Just remember, Santa doesn't come until the puzzle is done, so no slacking!

Playmobile Calendars

Find it: Amazon

Playmobil has LOADS of advent calendar themes. I like this Christmas baking themed play set. Some of the other choices include:

• Horse Farm
• Bathtime Fun
• Back to the Future (yes, the movie!!)
• And more! See them all here.

Daily Advent Crafting Fun!

You can probably tell that I am super into advent calendar ideas that provide an activity! I bet you are always looking for easy ways to keep your kids busy and an art themed calendar is a great choice.

The Crazy Scientist Advent Calendar

Find it: Amazon

A science advent calendar is such a great idea. Inside 24 paper gift boxes is a different science experiment. It also includes a substantially sized book with detailed instructions on how to conduct each experiment.

Also available: Purple Cow Cool Science Tricks Advent Calendar

Purple Cow Arts & Crafts Countdown

Find it: Amazon

This groovy artsy calendar is from the same company that created the science advent boxes above. Each day a different and festive project, is hidden inside a paper gift box. Also includes a how-to book. A great way to keep kids busy while the cookies are in the oven.

Also available: Purple Cow Amazing Magic Tricks Advent Calendar

Family Games Advent Calendar

Find it: Amazon

I do understand this isn't "arts and crafts" but it is screen-free family fun! What could be better that using an advent calendar to encourage family bonding. I love the choice of games. Some will be familiar like Yahtzee and Farkle, but most will be new to you like Frog Race and Candle in a Bottle. Some are going to be your kids' new favorite, like balloon volleyball.

Reusable Advent Calendars

No need to buy a new calendar each year. These cute choices will last for a lifetime.

Magnetic Wooden Christmas Tree

Find it: Amazon

Leave it to Melissa and Doug to come up with a charming reusable wooden advent calendar. This tree is so adorable I can hardly stand it. There is currently a Santa ornament version and an angel ornament version.

Felt Nativity Advent Calendar

Find it: Amazon

For those of you who want a nativity scene, this adorable felt nativity advent calendar will provide joy year after year. The felt figures sit in numbered pockets and stick to the scene with velcro.

See more nativity advent calendars here.

Enjoy the season!

The post 15 Fun & Unique Advent Calendars for Kids appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

You know where I'm going with this don't you?

It's a reindeer coloring page! Children's book author and illustrator, Melanie Hope Greenberg, designed this sweet reindeer pattern of ten prancing reindeer on a background of trees and turned it into a coloring page for your kids. The reindeer remind me of patterns on knit sweaters or even an old school video game!

Fun ways to Use the Reindeer Coloring Page

Melanie's coloring pages are never just ordinary coloring sheets. No, no, no. They transform into crafts or play activities, or can be used with story times!

Holiday or Christmas Card

It couldn't be easier to turn the reindeer coloring page into a card. Print the sheet out on card stock and color. Fold in half. Voilá. Don't forget to add a festive message inside and put in the mail for grandma.

Reindeer Puppets

Because the reindeer coloring page features eight reindeer, plus one for Rudolph and one extra (every sleigh team needs an understudy as backup, am I right?), this herd of reindeer is just waiting to be made into stick puppets for pretend play.

Once the child has finished turning their black and white reindeer into colorful creatures, carefully cut them out. With a dab of glue or strip of tape, affix each reindeer to the end of a wooden craft stick or straw.

Your child will absolutely want to prance those reindeer through the streets of our printable holiday village. Or, these printable gingerbread finger puppets can climb on the back of the reindeer and accompany the big guy on his night time journey.

Print out the coloring page (By clicking on the following link you agree to our terms of service* see end of post) -->: Reindeer pattern coloring sheet

More Fun Holiday and Winter Coloring Pages:

With years of monthly coloring pages, you bet you can find many more adorable illustrations on the blog to print out and color. Here are a few to get you started.

• Christmas coloring pages
• Sledding coloring page
• Penguins coloring page

About the Illustrator

Melanie Hope Greenberg hopes one day to command a sleigh pulled by flying reindeer. Until then, she will continue to bring joy to children the old fashioned way: with books and art.

Greenberg is an award winning author and illustrator of more than 15 children’s books. She was an Artist-In-Residence at the Eric Carle Museum and her books have been featured as a NY Times Great Children's Read. Her cheerful, vibrant illustrations can be found in books such as Good Morning, Digger, Down in the Subway and A City Is.

One of Melanie's favorite parts of being an author/illustrator is talking about her craft with students at libraries and in classrooms. You can learn more about author visits (virtual or in-person) at her website.

Melanie's iconic book, Mermaids on Parade was selected as a Bank Street Best Book, and for the Texas Reading Club and PBS Kids Summer Reading Lists. It was named one of the Top Reprints of 2019 by Fuse#8.

MERMAIDS ON PARADE 

written and illustrated by Melanie Hope Greenberg

Read the reviews and testimonials on Melanie's Blog.

Ingram 2019  Paperback ISBN 978-0578552125
Paperback 34 pages x 8.5 x 11 inches Perfect Bound $13.99
1st Edition Putnam/Penguin 2008
Print-On-Demand - can be purchased by schools, libraries, stores.
Institutional Book Ordering from Ingram
Or, buy it from Amazon

*Terms of Service: this coloring page is used with permission from Melanie Hope Greenberg and is for non-commercial use ONLY. You many print out as many copies as you like for personal, library or classroom use. If you would like to share this coloring page, you MUST link to this blog page. It is expressly forbidden to link directly to the coloring page pdf file.

The post Adorable Reindeer Pattern Coloring Page appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

The best part about many of these holiday and Christmas crafts is that they do not need to be done in accordance with a holiday deadline. Can't get everything done before Christmas? No problem! Most of these can be saved for an ordinary winter day. Those January and February days can go on forever and you'll need some boredom busters!

Holiday Ornament Crafts

Every parent loves to adorn the Christmas tree with kid-made ornaments!

MORE: Swedish-themed winter and holiday books

Paper Holiday Crafts

All you need for these easy paper holiday crafts is a stack of paper, a pair of scissors and box of crayons.

MORE: Tomten books

Holiday Nature Crafts

Whether you decide to bring nature inside, or festoon the outdoors with your handiwork, these easy nature holiday crafts are just the thing to brighten short winter days.

MORE: Diverse winter picture books

Orange Bird Feeder

Feeding the birds is a winter tradition around here. Sure, it's easy to empty a bag of birdseed into a store bought feeder, but why not try making your own.

We have all the instructions for how to make a bird feeder out of oranges (plus 3 more types of bird feeders!) to care for the birds during the cold, winter days.

Don't miss our tips for winter birding with kids.

Apple Candleholders

Carve out a few apples to make festive and fruity candleholders for long winter nights. Because these candleholders are obviously perishable make they the same day you will use them.

Choose apples that will sit flat on a table. Using an apple corer, cut down half way through the center top of the apple.

Next, and adult may need to use a small paring knife to remove the portion of the apple cut loose by the corer. Older children may be able to complete this step on their own.

Place a candle in the center hole of the apple. You may need to widen to accommodate the candle. Remember never leave a flame unattended!

Pomanders

Not only do orange and clove pomanders make your home smell yummy, but making them gives kids a chance to exercise those all important fine motor skills.

Get the instructions for how to make pomanders with kids here on the blog.

See, now aren't those some easy holiday crafts for kids? Getting into the DIY spirit isn't as hard as you thought.

However, of course you will want to read a few books to wind down. After all, crafting can be exhausting! Cuddle up with one of these multicultural winter holiday picture books!

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It's my humble opinion that the best gift a child can receive is a book. But let's face it, kids also want to get toys! Pairing a children's book with a coordinating toy is a fun and unexpected way to surprise a child. Choose a theme that appeals to your children's interests. Do they like sleuthing? Are they interested in geography or crafts? Once you have your theme, it's easy to find just the right book and activity to create an extra special gift.

Here are seven choices for book-toy sets, and even if they are not the right fit for your child I hope they will inspire you to look for something that fits your child's currents passion. The gifts below are designed for children ages 5-7. 

(Note: This post contains affiliate links that may earn commission from qualifying purchases.)

Book and Toy Gift Sets for Kids

Find it:  Encyclopedia Brown | National Geographic Spy Science Kit

This may be my favorite book-toy combo yet. Detectives in training will enjoy Encyclopedia Brown as either a read aloud or an independent read. Equip tiny but mighty sleuths with their own National Geographic Spy Science Kit

Find it: Klutz Make Your Own Mini Erasers! and Little Red Pen.

Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Crummel's tale of office supplies gone rogue is so funny and a true joy to read aloud. Your child will love listening to the story and then make mini erasers to act out their own office supply comedies!

Find it: Cat Crimes Logic Game | I Hate My Cats: A Love Story. 

If your family owns a cat, your child will adore this clever picture book about all the ways cats steal our hearts with their quirky ways. Cat Crimes is a wonderful single person logic game that our cat-loving household cannot get enough of. Players solve feline crimes using deduction methods reminiscent of old-school grid logic puzzles.

Find it: Potato Pants and Potato Clock. 

Potato Pants is a hilarious picture book that my son loved so much he read it out loud to me. Use the antics of the pants-less potato to encourage your child to engage in science. When they make their own potato clock they might actually get up in time for school.  (This book is also excellent for preschoolers. For younger kids the obvious choice is a Mr. Potato Head!)

Find it: Extra Yarn | Yarn Craft Kit

Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett is a whimsical picture book about the magical power of knitting! No doubt kids will want to undertake their own yarn bombing project after reading it. Enable their imagination with a Yarn Craft Kit.

Find it: If I Built a Car | ZOOBMobile Car Designer Set

If I Built a Car by Chris Van Dusen, is a boisterous picture book written in rhyme about out-of this world automotive design possibilities. The imaginative story will certainly inspire your little inventor to create his or her own amazing car with a DIY set that lets them build their very own souped up car!  

The post Book and Toy Gift Sets for 5-7 Year Olds appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

I've carefully selected the picture books based on my experience both as a parent and as a story time volunteer and I know your 3-5 year old will love all these choices! So whether your child loves vehicles, space, or going zen with a coloring book, you will find the perfect present in this gift guide for preschoolers!

(Note: product images and links below are affiliate links; purchases made through the links may earn commission.)

Book and Toy Gifts for 3-5 year olds

Find it: Iggy Peck, Architect | Unit Blocks

In Iggy Peck, Architect Iggy loves building so much he will build anything, anywhere out of any material. This best-selling picture book is ideal to inspire creative feats engineering in your preschooler! Give your little builder a set of unit blocks. Unit blocks are one of those essential toys that every preschooler should have!

Find it: Zin! Zin! Zin! A Violin | Melissa & Doug Band in a Box

Zin! Zin! Zin! A Violin is an award-winning book that introduces kids to the instrumental members of an orchestra. Preschoolers love making noise, er, I mean music! And don't know know that a foundation in music is great for later math skills! Kids can make music of their own with Melissa & Doug Band in a Box instruments.

Find it: Sky Color | Silk Rainbow Streamer

Sky Color by Peter H. Reynolds is a lovely book is about a girl who learns that painting the sky goes beyond the color blue. It teaches kids to think outside the box and use their imagination to help them soar! A whimsical Silk Rainbow Streamer is perfect for painting the sky during pretend play.

Find it: Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site | Toy Trailer & Excavator

Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site by Sherri Duskey Rinker was one of my (then) 3 year old’s all time favorite books (and he got it as a gift!), and for good reason. The clever rhymes and appealing illustrations of all kinds of trucks will have your child asking for it again and again. Pair it with any construction toy, such as this wooden Melissa & Doug Trailer & Excavator.

Find it: Z Is for Moose | classic magnetic wooden alphabet set

If you find most alphabet books annoying try out the zany Z Is for Moose by Kelly Bingham, named one of the best kid books of its year by Kirkus Reviews. After reading, kids will want to put what they've learned into action and exercise their pre-literacy skills with a classic magnetic wooden alphabet set, which comes with both upper and lower case letters.

Find it: A Bargain for Frances | Tea Set

You probably have fond memories of reading A Bargain for Frances by Russell and Lillian Hoban when you were a kid. It's a classic story about a little raccoon who visits her friend for a tea party. This Green Toys Tea Set may not be china with a blue pattern like the one Frances covets, but it’s made out of 100% recycled plastic, does not contain BPA, phthalates, or lead paint and meets FDA standards for food safety.

Find it: A Birthday for Cow! | Wooden Birthday Party Cake

Some kids, like my youngest, have a birthday that falls during the winter holiday. Celebrate with the hilarious A Birthday for Cow! by Jan Thomas, perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, and a Wooden Birthday Party Cake. My kids had one of these cakes and it was one of their most used toys during their pretend play sessions. They served me many a slice of wooden cake, and each one was delicious.

Find it: Cars Galore | Wooden Cars and Street Signs

Cars Galore by Peter Stein was another one of my boys’ favorite books. It truly is one of the most imaginative car-themed books you will ever read and I love that it is oversized so kids can really dig in. Its colorful illustrations and playful, rhyming text will win over every kid. Pair it with any set of toy cars, like this set of cars and road signs.

Find it: The Scrambled States of America | USA Map Floor Puzzle

Laurie Keller's picture book, The Scrambled States of America, filled with lots of state facts, is a hilarious way to introduce your kids to the uniqueness of each state. Plus, it's an excellent example of plain old fashioned excellent story telling. After they fill their brains, they can put together a USA Map Floor Puzzle, which has pieces shaped like the states. My boys adored this puzzle and I credit it with helping them learn geography!

Find it: How to Catch a Star | glow-in the dark constellations

How to Catch a Star from the marvelous author-illustrator Oliver Jeffers is about a boy who dreams up ways to catch hold of his very own star. Kids can catch their own stars and place their very own glow-in the dark constellations on their ceiling. What preschooler doesn't want to fall asleep under the stars every night. Magical!

Find it: Dog Loves Drawing | Colored EcoPencils | sketchbook

In Louis Yates' clever picture book, Dog Loves Drawing, Dog gets a blank book and starts drawing away, with surprising results. Inspired children can start drawing with easy-to-hold triangle-shaped Colored EcoPencils made from reforested wood and triangular in shape so they do not roll off the desk. Be sure to include a sketchbook. I love all the sweet Eeboo sketchbooks.

So what are you waiting for? The best gift for preschoolers is definitely a book and toy combination. It's the perfect pairing of literacy and pretend play to spark their imaginations!

The post Top Book and Toy Gifts for Preschoolers to Spark Their Imaginations appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

How to Make the Gingerbread House and Finger Puppets

The gingerbread coloring page is mostly self explanatory, but here are the instructions just in case you need a little assistance.

What you need:

• Colored pencils or crayons
• Scissors
• Tape
• White paper or card stock

The gingerbread house and puppets coloring page. Print it out here (By clicking on the following link you agree to our terms of service* see end of post) -->: Gingerbread puppets coloring page

Instructions:

Children may color the gingerbread house and people any way they like! Don't limit their color palette! I recommend against telling them what colors they "should" use, or telling them, "Stay in the lines!" Pink gingerbread people and blue gingerbread houses are representative of a child's unique creative style. Don't stifle it!

Next, cut out the puppets and the house. Let your child cut them out by themselves, if they wish. No need to stay close to the edge at all. Just like with the coloring, give your child the freedom to practice their scissor skills. Some children, however have lower tolerance for "mistakes" than others, but a little encouragement sometimes does the trick.

Make the house:

Fold the seams of the house as shown in the photo. It is not necessary to fold the sides at a 90 degree angle, but if you do, you can also tape the walls to the base. Leaving the walls wide open can act as a kind of play stage for the puppets. The choice is yours. Or print out multiple houses to make a village!

In fact, you will probably want to put together our holiday village shops coloring page to add to the pretend play set!

Make the puppets:

Wrap the puppet tabs around the child's finger to get the size just right. An adult or other friend can hold the tabs in place and securely tape them together.

Ideas for Using the Gingerbread Coloring Page

Having a holiday party or book club meeting? Add these coloring pages to an activity table or send them home as party favors. Don't forget the gingerbread people cookies!

The same goes for library or classroom story time. After reading the classic fairy tale The Gingerbread Man, send kids over to the activity table set up with coloring page and needed materials.

Create a paper village around the Christmas tree using multiple gingerbread houses, our village shops, as well as our paper pizza parlor and school house.

More holiday coloring pages:

• Christmas tree activity coloring page
• Holiday ornament coloring page
• See all our Christmas coloring page here.

About the Illustrator

Melanie Hope Greenberg may not be made of gingerbread, but she's just as sweet. She's an award winning author and illustrator of more than 15 children’s books. She was an Artist-In-Residence at the Eric Carle Museum and her books have been featured as a NY Times Great Children's Read. Her cheerful, vibrant illustrations can be found in books such as Good Morning, Digger, Down in the Subway and A City Is.

One of Melanie's favorite parts of being an author/illustrator is talking about her craft with students at libraries and in classrooms. You can learn more about author visits (virtual or in-person) at her website.

Melanie's iconic book, Mermaids on Parade, is available at your local library! It was selected as a Bank Street Best Book, and for the Texas Reading Club and PBS Kids Summer Reading Lists. It was named one of the Top Reprints of 2019 by Fuse#8.

MERMAIDS ON PARADE written and illustrated by Melanie Hope Greenberg

Read the reviews and testimonials on Melanie's Blog.

*Terms of Service: this coloring page is used with permission from Melanie Hope Greenberg and is for non-commercial use ONLY. You many print out as many copies as you like for personal, library or classroom use. If you would like to share this coloring page, you MUST link to this blog page. It is expressly forbidden to link directly to the coloring page pdf file.

The post Gingerbread House Coloring Page with Finger Puppets appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.