Teach your child the true meaning of Christmas
4Christmas is a time for family and friends to get together, celebrate the season and give back to one another. It is also a time of the year when Christian parents must ensure that Christ is at the centre of their celebrations.
It is important to note that Christmas commemorates the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He is the true reason for the season and he came that we might be saved. While it’s easy to get carried away with all the parties, decorations and festivities, Christian parents must teach their children that Christmas is more than just Santa, gifts and marching PJs.
When considering how to teach children about Christmas, keep their age and level of understanding in mind. It is also important to take into account their interests and preferences. Here are tips to help you teach your kids the meaning of Christmas:
Be animated with bible stories: Kids love story time; the birth of Jesus is a significant event for Christians all over the world. That is why it is important we teach our children about it. Essentially, the Christmas season is an excellent time to explain to your child what Christ’s life on earth was like and why he came.
You can start a family tradition by reading bible passages around the tree on Christmas Eve and having each family member reflect on it. Reading bible passages about Jesus’ birth and discussing the significance helps to remind your children of the reason for the season of Christmas.
Be intentional with Christ-centred nativity movies: Watching nativity-themed films help children understand what Christmas is all about and why we celebrate it. Watching nativity movies with your child is an excellent way to teach them the true meaning of Christmas.
Read books about the birth of Jesus: There are varieties of Christian books that explain to children the birth of Christ. Pick age-appropriate ones and make them part of your nighttime routines this season. You can choose to make it a family tradition to further imbibe the culture of reading Christian books.
Get them involved, attend a carol service with your child: Take your child to a carol service so they can share in the joy and celebration of Jesus’ birth. Attending a church carol service is an excellent opportunity to share the Christmas story with your child. He will have the opportunity to experience a variety of seasonal music, bible readings, hymns and prayers.
In most churches, there are significant areas decorated as a manger that further illustrates the scene from the birth of Jesus Christ.
Give Christmas cards, videos and drawings: Christmas is a time to spend with friends and family. However, many people do not have the means to celebrate Christmas or buy gifts for their loved ones. Teach your children that Christmas is about giving to those in need. Let your kids assist you in cooking for others; organise a donation for less privileged families in your neighbourhood.
Jesus is the reason for the season and children should learn and share in this joyous season.
Do have a Merry Christmas.
