Maybe you should look at a Lego advent calendar this year? The advent calendar is always special since it counts down to Christmas with youngsters all over the world struggling not to get too fired up as the big day nears.

Although not a new custom, present day calendars have little similarity to those people found in the 19th Century. The custom appears to have started in Germany.

The old version usually involved somebody using a piece of chalk to write on a board and opening compartments with hidden candy was unheard of.

The practice died out during the war most likely due to a lack of paper rather than a lack of festivity.

It was revived during the post war period and the exact same principles apply with the contemporary version. Starting around the 1st of December, you open up a window every single day until you get to the day before Christmas.

There are many different types of calendar from the basic ones where you simply open a window to show a date, to those that contain candies to permanent structures developed for use year in and year out.

The Lego advent calendar offers a new perspective on an old tradition. Your children are certain to get enormous amusement value from constructing the calendar and finding the hidden items behind each day.

There are numerous sets all using a specific Lego theme. For example the Lego City advent calendar is extremely popular.

The idea is to build something small each day in the run up to Christmas plus the toy can be used time and again.

The Lego items will also be compatible with additional sets so could be used all year but the majority of kids will likely discover that they lose odd bits and pieces.

So it could be best to pack it up ready for next year once Christmas day arrives. Your children will almost certainly be swept up with the new toys and presents. They might even have been given new Lego sets as presents.

Lego, while it has been around for many years, is experiencing a return as parents try to look for presents that will educate and entertain without relying on electronics, video games or the Television.

So which kind of Lego advent calendar do you purchase? As well as the two different Lego City sets, there is a Lego Castle set and a Lego Pirates advent calendar (what have pirates got to do with Christmas?) as well as a Playmobil version for young children.

According to parents opinions the Lego City Advent Calendar 7687 offers the best value both economically and enjoyment wise during the holiday season.

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