If like me, you try to limit sweets and chocolate, this time of year is a bit of a challenge. I've been on a bit of a hunt, and here are my favourite non-chocolate advent calendars for younger kids and those with allergies.
Cheap & Cheerful:
For a young child, picture surprises are often just as exciting as sweets. Lidl and Aldi usually have traditional paper calendars at very sensible prices. Amazon also have a good selection under £2.50.
Something Special:
There are lots of pop-up and 3D options which are still traditional but a bit more special than a basic design:
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| Eric Carle Pop-Up Advent Calendar £5.25 |
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| Townhouse Advent £8.00 |
Non-Chocolate Gift Calendars:
At the lower end of the scale, sticker or colouring calendars are a great alternative to chocolate.
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| Advent Calendar to Colour £3.69 |
If you've got cash to spare, or want to spend on something with a bit more longevity, why not go for a calendar with toys inside? Playmobil and Lego have a great selection, but you can also find Ben 10, Bratz, Littlest Pet Shop and other designs at around the same price.
Reusable Advent Calendars:
Traditional felt and wooden calendars are a lovely investment and you can fill them with your own surprises year after year:
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| Wooden Train Advent £28.96 |
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| House Advent Calendar £29.95 |
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| Advent Stocking Garland £6.00 |
Feeling crafty? There are lots of great ideas online or you can buy a kit to get you started.
For something completely different... why not try these advent crackers from M&S? Pull a cracker every day and slot together the 3D character inside. By Christmas Eve, you will have a full nativity!
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| Buttonbag Make Your Own Advent Calendar £14.00 |
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| Clippykit Home Sweet Home Advent £14.99 |
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| Clippykit Trim The Tree Advent £14.99 |
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| Nativity Advent Crackers £20.00 |
