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Celebrating Christmas with kids
We all know Christmas is an exciting time of year for kids. Presents, decorations, carols and yummy treats – there is so much to enjoy!
It’s a big celebration because Christmas is Jesus’ birthday. Because Jesus was born, we can have joy, hope and purpose. This may feel like a big message to help little people understand, so we’ve put together some resources and Christmas activities to help you share the true meaning of Christmas with the kids in your life in a fun, simple way.
Watch our short video to help kids understand the true meaning of Christmas.
The Christmas story for kids
God is our Creator and he loves us. His Son is Jesus. Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus. Here is the simple Christmas story for children:
A young woman called Mary was told by an angel that she would become the mother of Jesus.
When the time came for Mary to give birth to Jesus, she travelled with her husband Joseph to Bethlehem. It was very busy there and there were no guest rooms for them to stay in. They were offered a place to sleep in what was probably a barn or stable for animals. Mary gave birth to Jesus and laid him in a manger (where an animal eats).
Angels then appeared to some shepherds, sharing with them the good news of Jesus’ birth. Jesus is the King of Heaven, and he has come to Earth to be with us and give us peace and joy, they said. (The Christmas carol Hark! The Herald Angels Sing tells us about this event.)
The shepherds went to visit Jesus in his manger. They praised and worshipped him, then told everyone else about it. They had lots of joy and happiness — and every Christmas, we remember that and have lots of joy, too!
The angel said to them,
You can read the full Christmas message in the Bible, in Matthew chapters 1 and 2, and Luke chapters 1 and 2.
Question to ask your child: How would you feel if you could visit Baby Jesus today like the shepherds did?
Free Christmas activities for kids
The Salvation Army’s Kidzone team has created a collection of free Christmas activities for kids, including printable colouring pages, puzzle sheets and craft ideas.
Plus, if you visit your local Salvos church or Salvos Store, you can pick up a copy of Kidzone, a weekly kids’ magazine or (depending on when you visit) the special Christmas edition, both perfect for kids aged 5-12.
Each issue is packed full of stories, cooking, comics and craft.
Common Christmas questions from children
Celebrating Christmas as a family
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