Paper chains are cheap and simple to make and can help put a visual to an abstract concept, like time. This year Brielle really understands the “birthday party” concept – at least knowing that it’s paired with presents, friends and cake, but telling her that it wouldn’t be for weeks was hard to understand. In came our paper chain birthday countdown!
Let’s start with the supplies I’m sure you already have at home!
- Paper Plate
- Construction paper
- Tape
- Craft Knife
- Scissors
- Ribbon for hanging (not pictured)
- Happy Birthday or Birthday Party Printable (free download here!)
- Glue Stick
Cut out the printable and attach to center of paper plate. Our colorful ones were leftover from our Rainbow Party!
Begin creating your paper chain. Loop one paper strip to make a circle and secure with tape. Insert the second paper strip inside the loop before attaching together with tape. Repeat with all paper strips except the last one!
Create a slit in the bottom of the paper plate. Slip in the last paper strip through this slit and through the paper chain previously made. Use tape to secure.
Add a hole at the top of the paper plate and insert a piece of ribbon to hang.
Now your paper chain birthday countdown is ready to hang and use! Each morning they can take one loop off until it’s their birthday! Rip it, untape it, cut it — you decide! I know Brielle will look forward to doing hers every morning until her big birthday bash!
Since Brielle’s birthday party is before her birthday, I made a printable to say “birthday party” so she can countdown to that fun day. But my niece, Brinley would be celebrating her birthday before her party so I made her a “Happy Birthday” design instead! Download either in my free printable above!
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