A Simple Guide to Teaching Children the Heart of the Holiday
Wrapping paper lays strewn across my bedroom floor, while unwrapped boxes wait in line for their turn to be draped in beautiful paper and tied with elaborate bows.
Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year, and as our days begin to be filled with decorating, baking cookies, preparing for parties, and shopping for gifts, I wonder how much of the true meaning of Christmas my kids are soaking in.
It is absolutely possible for children to grow up and continue all we do during the holidays—without the heart behind it. After all, even families who do not celebrate the Christ-child go through many of the same motions.
So how do I draw the distinction?
How do I pass on the purpose behind our actions?
How do I anchor their hearts in the reason we celebrate Christmas?
How do I pass on the purpose behind our actions?
How do I anchor their hearts in the reason we celebrate Christmas?
Talk About the Wonder of Christmas
The first thing I do is talk about the wonder of Christmas with my kids. We read the Christmas story in Luke, and I display nativities all over the house.
Some are “look with your eyes and not with your hands” nativities meant for beauty. Others—wooden, plastic, and durable—welcome chubby little hands to hold, move, and explore.
I tell the story with the nativity pieces.
I explain why the kings came, why the shepherds were invited, and why the angels sang.
I explain why the kings came, why the shepherds were invited, and why the angels sang.
Intent. Purpose. Teaching.
Keep Christ at the Center of Every Tradition
Christmas is nothing without the Christ child, so this truth is woven into each activity we do.
We read books that make Christmas heartier than a sugar cookie hung on a tree. Some of these stories even explain the Santa tradition and help my kids understand the heart and generosity behind filled stockings on Christmas morning.
As you decorate, bake, wrap gifts, and prepare for gatherings, take time to sit down with your kids and read stories that reinforce the true meaning of Christmas.
These moments matter more than perfect cookies or flawless garland.
Christ-Centered Christmas Books for Kids
Below is a short list of rich books to read with your children this month. There are many more, but these will get you started and help anchor your traditions in Scripture, story, and meaning.
Scripture
- The Amplified Bible – Luke 2:1–20 (The Christmas Story)
Picture Books + Family Reads
- One Wintry Night — Ruth Bell Graham
- A Child’s Christmas at St. Nicholas Circle — Thomas Kinkade
- The King’s Christmas List — Eldon Johnson
- St. Nicholas: The True Story of the Christmas Legend — Julie Stiegemeyer & Chris Ellison
- The Legend of the Candy Cane — Lori Walburg
- Unwrapping the Greatest Gift — Ann Voskamp
Final Thought
As parents, we get to shape how our children experience the season. The cookies, lights, and presents are wonderful—but they are not the foundation.
Slow down.
Read together.
Tell the story again.
Let them hear, see, and touch the wonder of God coming to earth.
Read together.
Tell the story again.
Let them hear, see, and touch the wonder of God coming to earth.
Merry Christmas & Happy Reading!
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