Celebration Countdown Chain

crayola supplies

Fine Line Markers
Mini-Stampers Markers
Glue Sticks
Blunt-Tip Scissors
Construction Paper

household supplies

none

Why

Count the days until your birthday, the first day of school, or holidays such as Valentine’s Day! Before you know it, the big day will arrive.

Steps

1. Are you eager to celebrate your next birthday? Can’t wait for Valentine’s Day? Whatever the holiday that’s coming up, count down the days with this chain.
2. With Crayola® Scissors, cut as many strips of white paper as there are days until the holiday. For Valentine’s Day, you would use 14 strips to start counting on February 1.
3. Use Crayola Classic Fine Line Markers and MiniStampers to decorate each strip differently. Include holiday sayings, symbols, and other designs.
4. Cut slightly wider strips of colored paper. Attach your decorated strips to them with a Crayola Glue Stick.
5. Glue the strips together to create a paper chain.
6. Remove one link each day until your holiday arrives!

When & Where

"We use this chain whenever something special is coming up. It helps kids count and days pass quickly."
- Ross R., father of ages 6 and 4.

"Kids put a different Valentine’s day message on each link. Each day, they gave a link to someone special at home."
- Felicity U., after-school program volunteer.

Interesting Info

According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine's Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year.

Safety Guidelines

Scissors—ATTENTION: The cutting edges of scissors are sharp and care should be taken whenever cutting or handling. Blunt-tip scissors should be used only by children 4 years and older. Pointed-tip scissors should be used only by children 6 years and older.