Christmas Tree Dot to Dot

This Christmas tree dot to dot has 23 numbered dots that turn into a tall tree with three layers of branches. Kids follow the numbers in order, then color the tree and add ornaments, a star and gifts of their own. It suits ages 4 to 8, and most kids finish in about 10 minutes.

The numbers are clear and spaced apart, so children can follow the path without getting lost. Counting to 23 is a nice step up from our easier pages.

Who this page is for

Kids in preschool through second grade will enjoy this holiday puzzle. It suits the week before winter break. Try it at a holiday party table, or use it for a quiet moment at home while the cookies bake.

Because the page starts blank, kids get to decide how the tree looks in the end. No two match.

Tips for a neat tree

• Draw the lines with a pencil and a ruler for sharp, straight branches.
• Go slowly around the corners, where the numbers turn back in.
• Say the numbers aloud if you lose your place.
• Close the shape by joining the last number to number 1.
• Trace the finished tree with a dark marker before you color it.

Count the layers together afterward. The tree has three layers of branches, so ask your child to point to each one and tell you how many dots it took to draw it.

Decorate your tree

Now the fun part. Once the shape appears, add round ornaments, a gold star and a string of lights. Draw a few presents under the branches and write a name on each tag. Green is the classic color, but a blue or pink tree can look lovely too.

For a craft, glue small buttons, sequins or bits of tinsel onto the branches. Kids can also cut out the tree and glue it to a folded card for a homemade holiday greeting.

Learning with this page

Dot to dot pages build number order and hand control at the same time. Ask younger kids to count the dots along one side of the tree. Older kids can look for triangles in the shape, then count how many they can find.

Writing fits in too. Ask your child to write three things they would put under this tree. In class, use the finished trees for a small story about a family getting ready for the holidays. You can read about the history of connect the dots puzzles on Wikipedia.

Christmas tree dot to dot ideas for groups

Running a holiday party? Hand out copies and a small cup of crayons, and let each child make a tree. Then line them up along a wall to create a paper forest. Add cotton along the bottom for snow, and you have a simple holiday display that took almost no planning.

Scout troops and after school clubs can turn the trees into cards for a nearby care home. It is a small, kind project, and residents enjoy getting mail made by children.

For a timed game, print two copies and let kids race, with neat lines worth a bonus point. Rushing makes messy branches.

Why this page works

A sheet of random dots looks like nothing at first. Then, one line at a time, a tree appears, and that small surprise keeps kids working to the end.

Parents like the practical side too. It prints in seconds, costs nothing and needs no setup, and a single sheet can hold a child's attention for a good stretch of time.

More printables to try

See all of our free printables for kids. For a coloring version, try the Christmas tree coloring page, or find words on the Christmas word search.

Questions