Psychologist puts worries about adult advent calendars to rest

Advent calendars are an essential part of the Christmas experience as a kid.

The countdown to Christmas would be even more tortuous without some chocolates to tide you over, and gradually opening up each window adds to the excitement for the big day.

Some parents persist with buying them for their kids well past the day they fly the nest, however, and it’s had some people on social media worried that it might be an unhealthy practice.

"My mum's given me an advent calendar,” penned a Redditor. “I’m a 26-year-old man. Is this normal? It’s quite sweet but it seems a few years off.”

This 26-year-old man was no doubt relieved to find he has plenty of company in this arena, with countless respondents sharing that they too still get an advent calendar from their parents.

Reusable advent calendars are increasingly popular (Icy Macload/Getty Images)

"My 78-year-old nan still gets an advent calendar from my great gran who’s about 97,” shared one commenter. “Never too old for chocolate."

While there are plenty of adults out there who’ll be expecting an advent calendar from mum and dad each year, the question remains as to whether it’s healthy or not.

Psychologist Dannielle Haig spoke to Tyla to explain the mechanisms behind this festive practice.

"When parents buy advent calendars for their adult children, it often reflects the enduring power of family traditions," she said.

"These small gestures are about much more than just chocolate or gifts; they’re a way for parents to maintain a sense of connection and to show love in a tangible, familiar way.

"For adult children, receiving an advent calendar can evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort. It’s a reminder of simpler times and the joy of festive traditions we associate with childhood."

Along with nurturing familial bonds, it’s a great way to feel more grounded in a complex, noisy adult world.

"In an increasingly unpredictable world, moments like these can feel grounding, offering a link back to our roots and to the people who know us best," Haig continued.

"From a psychological perspective, this kind of tradition highlights how families adapt to the passage of time. Even as children grow up and become independent, these small rituals allow parents to remain an important part of their lives. It’s also a reflection of how much we all crave moments of joy and connection, regardless of our age.

Adult humans and meerkats alike should enjoy advent calendars (SOPA Images/Getty Images)

"It’s no surprise that adults still enjoy receiving advent calendars—they’re a reminder to slow down, to delight in the little things, and to appreciate the relationships that mean the most to us."

It’s easy to get wrapped up in concerns about whether you’re ‘adult’ enough, but we could all do with cutting ourselves some slack on that front. If it’s harmless fun and it feels nice, what’s the harm in it?