There’s something special about December—the twinkle lights, the cozy mornings, the extra time curled up on the couch with a stack of picture books and kids who suddenly want all the stories. If you’re hoping to slow down this season and soak up the magic with your children, a 12 Days of Christmas Picture Book Countdown is the simplest, sweetest tradition to start.
No pressure, no perfect crafts, no complicated prep.
Just one book + one simple activity each day—something that invites connection, creativity, and a little holiday wonder.
Here are 12 beautiful Christmas and winter books paired with gentle activities your kids will love.
Day 1 — “Mr. Willowby’s Christmas Tree” by Robert Barry
Activity: Make your own mini Christmas trees
Start your countdown with this whimsical classic about a too-tall tree that gets shared from home to home. After reading, help your kids fold green paper into cone-shaped mini trees. Decorate with stickers, sequins, buttons, or bits of scrap paper. Display them on a shelf or windowsill to welcome the season with something cheerful and handmade.
Day 2 — “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats
Activity: Make coffee filter snowflakes
Keep a stack of coffee filters and scissors on the table and let everyone experiment with shapes. Hang them on windows for instant winter magic. Here’s a tutorial to learn how to make them.
Day 3 — “Pick a Pine Tree” by Patricia Toht
Activity: Decorate your Christmas tree
Read this lyrical celebration of tree-decorating, then turn on the carols and trim your own tree—slowly, with kid hands leading the way. If you’ve already decorated the tree make a homemade ornament to add to the decorations. These picture frame ornaments are a family favorite.
Day 4 — “The Christmas Wish” by Lori Evert
Activity: Go on a winter nature walk
Bundle up and take a slow walk through your neighborhood or nearby trail. Look for animal tracks, pinecones, and winter berries.
Day 5 — “Bear Stays Up for Christmas” by Karma Wilson
Activity: Make a simple garland
String popcorn, cranberries, paper chains, or dried oranges—whatever fits your day. Even a short garland feels festive.
Day 6 — “A World of Cookies for Santa” by M.E. Furman
Activity: Bake a cookie from another country
Choose one recipe from the book (or just pick a new-to-you cookie) and bake together. Talk about Christmas traditions around the world.
Day 7 — “Snowmen at Night” by Caralyn Buehner
Activity: Build a snowman—or a cotton-ball snowman craft
If you have snow, head outside. If not, glue cotton balls to paper and draw silly snowman faces and accessories.
Day 8 — “The Littlest Reindeer” by Brandi Dougherty
Activity: Make magical reindeer food
After reading this sweet story about finding your place and believing in yourself, mix up a simple batch of “reindeer food.” Combine oats with a pinch of sprinkles (or bird seed if you prefer wildlife-friendly). Let the kids scoop it into little bags or jars and decorate with a handmade label. Save it for Christmas Eve—or sprinkle a little outside now for fun.
Day 9 — “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg
Activity: Hot cocoa night
Make a cozy cocoa bar with marshmallows, peppermint, or whipped cream. Dim the lights and enjoy a quiet evening read-aloud. Bonus watch the movie too.
Day 10 — “The Nutcracker” (any retelling)
Activity: Put on classical music and have a mini dance party
Let kids twirl, leap, and pretend they’re Clara or the Sugar Plum Fairy. If you’re feeling crafty add in this popsicle stick nutcracker craft.
Day 11 — “The Legend of the Poinsettia” by Tomie dePaola
Activity: Simple poinsettia craft
Cut red and green paper into petals, glue them into flowers, and add a little yellow dot in the center.
Day 12 — “The Night Before Christmas” by Jan Brett
Activity: Christmas Eve warm-and-cozy moment
After reading, set out cookies, turn on the tree lights, and enjoy the anticipation of Christmas together.
How to Make This Tradition Feel Slow + Doable
- Keep all supplies in one small basket so you’re never scrambling.
- Swap any activity for one that fits your day better.
- Read the books in any order—no rules here!
- Let the kids lead. The heart of this countdown is connection, not perfection.
Have a Cozy Christmas
If you’ve been craving a calmer, cozier December, this simple picture book tradition brings the magic without the overwhelm. One story. One tiny, meaningful moment. And a whole month of holiday memories your kids will remember.
