Teaching Young Children About the Nativity This Christmas

Sharing the birth of Jesus with your children doesn't have to wait until they are older. In fact, sharing God and your faith can start with infants and toddlers through routines, books, toys, and prayer. If you are interested in sharing the story of the Nativity with your young children this Christmas, consider these ways to introduce the topic.

Read books.
Sharing the Christmas Nativity story with children through books is a wonderful introduction to God, faith, and the birth of Jesus. There are a variety of books out there covering the topic, from picture books with few words, rhyming books, and books for more advanced readers that parents and children can read and discuss together. One cute book that is a great introduction to the Christmas story is Who is Coming to Our House? by Joseph Slate, which discusses the preparations the animals in the stable make as they await the arrival of Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus. This entertaining and beautifully illustrated look at the nativity is a wonderful introduction to the Nativity for young children. Christmas in the Manger by Nola Buck is another selection that parents could use (and comes in board book form, ideal for infants and young toddlers).

Use toys.
A wooden nativity set is the perfect idea for young children leading up to Christmas. It gives them the materials they need to act out the Christmas story. Learning Journey's 19 Piece Wooden Nativity Playset is reasonably priced and helps the Christmas story come alive for young children.

Sing songs.
Singing traditional Christmas songs such as Away in the Manger and Joy to the World is another way to help introduce children to the Nativity. Children love to sing, and many pick up words easily with repetition. For slightly older children, songs can prove to be great conversation starters as you talk about the words you are singing.

Act it out.
Invite older children to put on a play of the Nativity for younger children. Act out the story with the kids in your own family. Put on a show together on Christmas Eve, or go to see a show that does the same at your church or local community center.