Teaching Children About the Holidays

One of the things that make the holiday season so special is that no two families celebrate it the same, even if we have lots of traditions. Some celebrate Hanukkah; some make New Year's Eve very low key. And then Christmas has evolved from its Pagan and Christian roots to a celebration now that differs from celebrations just 150 years ago.

Explore the stories, traditions, and meanings with these holiday picture and craft books.

Peter Spier's Christmas

This delightful picture book tells the story of one family's Christmas. They start with the shopping and decorating. The family sends Christmas cards and assembles the nativity scene. We follow them through a church service and opening gifts with their grandparents. But there's not a single piece of narrative. Not a word. The illustrations are detailed, so snuggle with your child and discuss if the book's family celebrates the same way you do.

The Stable Where Jesus Was Born by Rhonda Gowler Greene

We love this story for how much fun it is to read—it tells the nativity story in rhyme. It's also sweet with showing the excitement of everyone in the stable that night, from Mary and Joseph through to the mice.

We Celebrate New Year by Bobbie Kalman

Discover how the New Year is celebrated around the world with We Celebrate New Year. It's nonfiction for kids, so more for older readers. Games, recipes, and songs are mixed with fun facts. Who knows, your family may have new traditions after reading this.

One Candle by Eve Bunting

On the first day of Hanukkah, Grandma tells the story of her celebrating Hanukkah with Great Aunt Rose in a camp during the Holocaust. While telling the story to her family, Grandma peels a potato and carves it the same as the illicit candle from years before. The old photograph-style illustrations add emotion to the story, which introduced the events and remembrances to children.

Christmas Crafts from Around the World by Judy Ann Sadler

Hands-on children will love discovering Christmas around the world via crafts. It's very household-friendly with most items readily found and simple designs. Pro tip: discuss the meanings and stories with the children while making the crafts, so they learn as they play.

Are there other holiday stories you read with your children to discover the traditions and practices?

Read more by Bianca Smith