The Meaning of Christmas

• The best way to tell children the true meaning of Christmas is to read them the story from the Bible. Matthew 1:18 - 2:23 tells the details surrounding the birth of Jesus, from the angel's promise of His conception until after His birth when Joseph and Mary moved to Nazareth. Simply let the story speak for itself. Not many people can hear that story and not be moved to believe it.
  
  
• There are also good videos and books available at most Christian bookstores that may be of assistance. You could read through a book or watch a video together and discuss any questions your child may ask.
  
  
• Encourage your child to participate in a Christmas play or nativity. Many children learn more from acting out the Christmas story rather than just hearing it. Check with your church about children's nativities or plays that your child can participate in.
  
  
• Participate in a service project as a family. Go caroling at the nursing home, donate gifts to needy children in your community, bake cookies for your neighbors. By handing out Christian tracts as you carol or including a tract with your cookies your child will learn the importance of sharing his or her faith. As a family, you can tell others the good news of Jesus Christ and the meaning of Christmas.
  
  
• Finally, you may also want to emphasize the Christ-focused Christmas traditions and de-emphasize the secular traditions.