Nov 17

Nov 17 5 Fun Ways to Share the Christmas Story as a Family

Sponsored by The Star In Theaters Friday, November 17th. All statements and opinions are my own.

It’s November and the holidays are fast approaching! Do you have some fun activities planned? You may already have your usual holiday fun-list in mind, or maybe you are looking for something new to try this year!

Here are five simple and fun ways to share the Christmas story as a family. You can make these activities your own by tailoring them to your own family situation or style.

#1 Through Art. When is the last time you went to an ice-sculpting contest? Painted a wintery landscape? Cut snowflakes to hang in the window? Dipped some pinecones in glitter and hung them on the tree?

Teach your kids about creation, salvation, and Jesus’ resurrection (which ties in the bigger picture of the Christmas story) as you make artwork.

Point out simple truths. When you see ice sculptures, ask your kids if it was made by accident or created. Talk about how God created everything with a design just like the sculptor. Cutting snowflakes? Don’t forget to remind your kids that each and every snowflake is different just like people are different, yet God loves us all! Use artwork to point to Him and weave in different truths that point to Christ.

#2 Through Baking. Cookie cutters, icing, and sprinkles – oh my! Making cookies can be messy, but it is a fun way to let the kids help. Buy or borrow a star-shaped cookie cutter. Make some sugar cookie stars. Take these stars to neighbors. Share with your kids how Jesus is the Light of the World. Share how Jesus came into our world to be a great Light. “I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness” (John 12:46 NIV). Or share how we are called to be the light. “You are the light of the world” (Matt. 5:14a NIV). Or share how the magi came from the east to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him” (Matthew 2:2 NIV).

#3 Through Tradition. Advent is a beautiful tradition. The word, Advent actually comes from a Latin word meaning “coming.” Advent is celebrated for four Sundays leading up to Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. This is a time meant to set one’s focus and heart on Christ. There are Advent calendars and/or wreaths to help count down the days and remember the Christmas story. Traditionally, there are four different colored candles lit each week. Your family might enjoy the rich history and liturgical celebration of Advent. For extra fun, your family can create your own Advent calendar.

#4 Through Presence. Be together. Seeing a movie together around the holidays is such a fun way to celebrate the season! On November 17th the movie The Star will release in theaters nationwide. It is a fun film depicting the first Christmas. Check out the trailer below:

#5 Through Scripture. Read the Biblical account of the Christmas Story together every year. It may not seem “fun” to all of the family members every year, but it will be faith-filled and that’s most important.

The fun of sharing the story will be in answering your children’s precious questions, snuggling up together, and remembering the true reason for the season.