The true value of Christmas: teaching children the authentic meaning
of this celebration

As the Christmas season approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the shopping frenzy and gift lists. However, the true spirit of Christmas goes far beyond what is under the tree. For parents, this is a precious moment to teach children deep values such as generosity, gratitude and love for family. In this article, we explore practical ideas to make Christmas a meaningful celebration, where children can learn the value of sharing, community, and family bonds.

What is Christmas beyond the presents?

Christmas is often linked to the exchange of gifts, but its authentic value lies in a much deeper meaning: it is a time when people are invited to reflect on love, togetherness, and connection with others. Explaining the true meaning of Christmas to children helps them understand that presents are only a small part of the celebration, while values such as solidarity and generosity last far longer than any toy. This approach encourages children to see Christmas as a special moment to share affection and to strengthen bonds with family and friends.

Starting with generosity: teaching children the joy of giving

One of the core values of Christmas is generosity. It is essential for children to understand that the real joy lies in giving without expecting anything in return. Parents can introduce this concept through simple but meaningful activities, such as making handmade gifts or writing thoughtful cards for friends and relatives. These small acts help children discover the happiness of making others smile.

Sharing stories of generosity is another effective way to inspire children. Reading Christmas tales or fables about characters willing to help others shows them that Christmas is also about making the world a better place, one small step at a time.

The magic of gratitude: why saying thank you matters

Christmas is also the perfect time to teach children about gratitude. A fun and engaging way to do this is by creating a “gratitude jar”: each day until Christmas, children can write down something they are thankful for and place it in the jar. This daily ritual becomes a precious opportunity to reflect on the little and big joys of life, where the true magic of Christmas lies.

Gratitude helps children recognise and appreciate what they have, making Christmas a deeper and more memorable celebration. By encouraging them to say thank you, we help them grow with a positive outlook on life.

Solidarity and inclusion: Christmas as a time of community

Christmas is a celebration of solidarity and inclusion, a moment when everyone can feel part of a greater community. Involving children in charity or volunteering activities is a powerful way to teach them what Christmas truly represents. Taking part in toy drives for less fortunate children, visiting a care home to share greetings and smiles, or contributing to a food collection are simple gestures that teach the value of solidarity.

Through these experiences, children learn that we are all part of a bigger family and that even a small act of kindness can make a big difference. In this way, Christmas becomes for them a moment of connection and belonging.

Love and togetherness: the heart of Christmas lived in the family

Beyond gifts and festivities, Christmas is above all a time of love and family togetherness. Parents can create small rituals that make this period special, such as decorating the tree together, baking Christmas biscuits, or reading festive stories. These shared moments help children grasp the value of togetherness while creating lasting family memories.

Through these simple acts, children experience the love and warmth of family that make Christmas unique. This spirit of closeness and affection represents the true heart of Christmas, a message that will stay with them forever.

Books to explain the true meaning of Christmas to children

To help you explain the authentic meaning of Christmas to children, here are three of our recommended Christmas books:

• The Littlest Christmas Tree: a story that celebrates the authentic values of Christmas, such as sharing, family, and the importance of small gestures. Through the bond between Little Bear and her small tree, the story shows that the real magic of Christmas lies in love and mutual care, values that grow throughout the year.

• For Christmas I Wish: a sound book that expresses the desire to rediscover the magic of Christmas through values such as harmony, joy, and togetherness. With simple words and gentle melodies, it invites children to celebrate the importance of family, the beauty of small things, and the warmth of hugs, making the holidays a time of peace and love.

• A Christmas Carol: this timeless classic tells the story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, who, thanks to the visit of three spirits, rediscovers the values of generosity, love, and compassion. This tale conveys a universal message, reminding readers of the transformative power of Christmas to renew human bonds and spread kindness.

Christmas offers parents a unique opportunity to pass on to children values that go far beyond the material aspects of the holiday. Through small gestures and meaningful activities, we can help children discover the importance of giving, being grateful, living in solidarity, and celebrating family love. In this way, Christmas becomes a time of reflection and growth for the whole family, an occasion to build lasting memories and bonds.