Village Advent Calendar

Who doesn't love an Advent Calendar?  We did a small one last year for our 2 year old Coco and she was delighted to open it every morning.  So this year, we're going bigger with this paper box village.  It's very easy to make, the kids will have a great time arranging the village, and, best of all, it folds flat for storage! MATERIALS- 24 white paper boxes (I used 11 small and medium and 2 large)- White card stock- Decorative paper- Circle cutter (or you can do it by hand)- Adhesive numbers- Scissors and utility knife and/or paper-cutter- Glue STEPSTo make a house, cut the card stock to the width of the front of the box.  Then cut the top to be whatever whimsical house-like shape you'd like.  Glue the cutout to the front of the box.  I did a few of the smaller ones with a simple triangular roof.  I added a chimney to a few of the larger houses.  I did fortress like crenelation to some to make a town castle and a cross on one to make a church.  Also try cutting little circles or arches into them to create some added interest. To add the dates, use your circle cutter (or do it by hand) and cut out 24 circles from your decorative paper.  Add the adhesive numbers and glue to the front of the buildings. Fill them with lots of little goodies and let the kids (and adults) enjoy!