Advent Calendar Ideas for College Kids
There’s power in traditions. Rituals bind families together, create special memories, and provide a link between the generations. Each family has a distinctive take on common traditions and unique rituals as well. Faith traditions are especially important to impart values and instill beliefs in children.
Advent calendars are apart of many families’ preparation for Christmas. The word Advent is derived from advantus, Latin for “coming”. We wait in in anticipation to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Peacefully preparing our hearts rather than succumbing to the busyness of the season sets the stage for the holiday and models to the real reason for the season, Jesus.
Calendars are great for children of all ages. When my boys were young, both grandmas would give the kids a calendar, one covered in glitter and the other one chocolate. (Yes, I’d cringe every year. There’s nothing like glitter all over the floor and a chuck of chocolate to start the day with a BANG.) Ten years ago, family friends sent a calendar box with a surprise for our family behind each little door including pieces to a nativity set. Baby Jesus was lovingly wrapped and placed in the last space. We’ve used the calendar ever since with small treats or clues for the boys to find hidden surprises around the house.
When my eldest son was a freshman in college, the semester ended shortly before Christmas. His first morning at home, he joined his younger brother in the Christmas countdown with our traditional Advent calendar. As he was sitting down to breakfast, he mentioned it finally felt like the holiday had begun. Yes, the tree was up. He’d helped decorate it the day after Thanksgiving. The presents were under the tree. He’d already completed his shopping. His Christmas season had truly started with our tradition of the Advent calendar. It’s such a small thing, but was a big thing for him.
The following year the situation was remedied with a new spin on the tradition. Small trinkets, gift cards, sweets, and treats were sent daily to his post office box at school. Each day was labeled with a number, designating the countdown. Scripture was included to encourage and prepare his heart for Christmas. The traditional calendar was ready for the remainder of the days leading up to Christmas when he arrived home from college.
In subsequent years, the tradition continued with another new twist. The boxes are ready to take back to school after Thanksgiving. Family traditions that mean something are worth modifying and keeping.
So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions
that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter.
2 Thessalonians 2:15 ESV
© 2018 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.
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