Three weeks of birthday build-up
The chain starts at three weeks, which is long enough to feel exciting and short enough for a small child to follow. Change the first date for more or fewer links.
The birthday list turns the wait into small jobs: choose the dinner, make a crown, pick the party game, write a wish for the year. Type the birthday child's name and age in "Counting down to" (for example "Mia turns 6") and it is printed on the last link and the topper card. Names stay on this device; they only go into a link you share if you press Copy share link.
Questions people ask
How many days before a birthday should a countdown start?
Two to four weeks suits most children. Very young kids lose interest in long chains, so 7 to 14 links can work better for a three-year-old. Older kids often like a full month.
What can we put on each link?
Small birthday jobs work well: choose the cake flavor, measure your height, make a playlist, write a wish. The built-in list has 22; paste your own list for a different number.
Can it say the child's name and age?
Yes. Type it into "Counting down to". It prints on the last link ("Tomorrow: Mia turns 6!") and on the topper card.
Should the last link be the day before or the birthday itself?
By default the last link comes off the day before. Tick "Add a link for the big day itself" under More options for a final link to open on the birthday morning.
Can I make one for a party, not a birthday?
Yes. Any date works. The home page has a general version with other word lists.