Every year, it’s easy to feel like Christmas love has to come wrapped in paper, tied with bows, and purchased last minute. But one of our favorite Advent traditions this year reminded me of something simple and powerful:
The most meaningful gifts don’t cost anything at all.
One day during Advent, we made Christmas coupon cards together — little promises of time, help, and kindness. It was one of the easiest activities we’ve done all season, and somehow one of the most impactful.
Why We Love Christmas Coupons
These aren’t coupons for toys or treats. They’re acts of service, thoughtfulness, and intentional love. As we sat together, I watched my son really think through questions like:
- What would actually help someone I love?
- What would make them feel cared for?
- How can I give without spending money?
That heart work is the real gift.
What Are Christmas Coupon Cards?
They’re simple cards where each person writes a promise to someone else — something they’ll do rather than something they’ll give. You can use them between parents and kids, spouses, siblings, grandparents, or friends. We each made three coupons for one another, and the ideas were sweet, creative, and deeply thoughtful.
Coupon Ideas (By Relationship)
Parent to Child
- Stay up late together
- Extra scoop of ice cream
- You choose dinner
- Movie night of your choice
- One-on-one date with mom or dad
Parent to Parent
- Cook dinner
- Breakfast in bed
- Take over bedtime
- An uninterrupted hour to rest
- Handle chores for the day
Child to Parent
- Make waffles or pancakes
- Read you a story
- Extra hugs all day
- Help without being asked
- Draw a picture just for you
None of these cost a thing — but every single one communicates love.
How We Use Them
We write the coupons, wrap them with a bit of string, and tuck them into stockings. Sometimes we trade them right away, sometimes we save them for later in the season. They also make wonderful gifts for teachers, grandparents, or anyone who would appreciate something handmade and heartfelt.
Why This Matters
In a season that can feel busy, expensive, and overwhelming, these coupons slow things down. They teach children that love looks like service, time, and care — not just presents. And honestly? They’ve sparked some of the sweetest conversations we’ve had all season.
Make Your Own
I created a simple printable version of our Christmas Coupon cards so you can easily make your own at home. Just print, cut, write, and enjoy. If you’d like the free printable, and start a tradition that costs nothing — but means everything.