Turn back-to-school jitters into joy with our First Day of School Countdown Chain. Just print, cut, and hang—your kids will love counting down the days!
If your house is anything like mine, the countdown to the first day of school is filled with mixed emotions, a little bit of excitement, a little bit of nerves, and a whole lot of questions. That’s exactly why we love getting the kids excited with fun back to school activities like this First Day of School Countdown Chain! It’s a sweet and simple way to help kids visually track the days left while turning the wait into something joyful.
This printable back to school countdown chain is packed with school-themed designs like pencils, buses, crayons, rulers, and notebook paper. Each link in the chain marks a day closer to the big day, and trust me, it turns into a cherished part of your back-to-school routine.
Why You’ll Love It (Mom to Mom)
There are so many reasons why I love using a back to school countdown chain in our house. I know you will love it as much as we do in our house.
- Eases Transition: Perfect for younger kiddos who feel anxious about going back to school. It gives them something fun to look forward to every day.
- Simple & No-Stress: Just print, cut, and glue or staple. That’s it!
- Decorative & Functional: Hang it in your kitchen, entryway, or your kid’s bedroom for a fun, festive countdown that doubles as décor.
- Conversation Starter: Each day, as you tear off a loop, use it to talk about school goals, what they’re excited about, or any worries they might have.
How to Use the First Day of School Countdown Chain
- Print the Back to school countdown Template: Use regular paper or cardstock for extra durability.
- Cut the Links: Each strip is pre-designed with school-themed art and numbers.
- Assemble the Chain: Loop and secure each strip of paper ending with the “First Day of School” loop.
- Hang It Up: Use tape, a hook, or clip it to a command hook where your kids can see it.
- Tear Off Daily: Each morning or bedtime, remove a link together and celebrate being one day closer!
Make It Extra Special
- Add a handwritten note or treat inside a few links for a surprise!
- Pair it with our First Day of School Interview Printable to kick off a new tradition.
- Back to School Banner for a little extra decor to increase the level of excitement.
- Use our Back to School Color By Number for a fun activity.
- Include our First Day of School Signs for a complete celebration.
More Back-to-School Printables You’ll Love
If you’re loving this simple way to build excitement, here are more back-to-school printables to make the season even more special:
- Back-to-School Interview Printable – Capture their thoughts and favorites before the year begins
- Back-to-School Color by Number – A calming, creative activity for the first week
- Back-to-School Jokes – Add a giggle to lunchboxes or breakfast time
Share Your First Day of School Fun!
I’d love to see how your countdown chain looks in your home!
Tag me on Instagram @MicheleTripple with your chain, your set-up, and those first-day smiles. You might just inspire another mom to start a new tradition!
Grab Your Free Printable!
Ready to bring some fun into your back-to-school prep? Just download, print, and create lasting memories together.
Make the back-to-school countdown extra fun!
Download your Free First Day of School Countdown Chain Printable.
Print it once, assemble it with your kids, and tear off a link each day as you count down to the big day together.
Michele Tripple is a renowned author and expert in the fields of parenting, relationships, and personal development. She is a certified Life Coach with her degree in marriage and family studies, her experience as a Family Life Educator, and over a decade of experience as a professional writer; Michele has authored books that provide practical advice and insights into improving family dynamics and personal growth. Her work is celebrated for its blend of research-driven information and relatable, real-world applications. Michele has been a keynote speaker at conferences and has contributed to numerous publications and media outlets, solidifying her reputation as an authoritative voice in her field and helping families build relationships.