Merry Christmas to our CDC families! Our hearts are filled with joy and anticipation with each day crossed off our Advent calendar. And what better way to embrace the spirit of Christmas than by sharing the true meaning of it all: the Nativity story? Whether this is your family’s first Christmas together or you’re celebrating old traditions, our early childhood educators are thrilled to help you and your child experience the joy of our Lord’s birth together and with new meaning.

The True Meaning of Christmas

The Nativity is more than a Bible story or annual sermon, it is the love, hope, kindness and compassion that both children and adults can carry with us yearound.

Teaching the Nativity story lays the groundwork for faith. As parents, we have the incredible opportunity to nurture our little one’s spiritual growth and guide them on a journey of understanding the significance of Christmas beyond the twinkling lights and festive decorations.

The Nativity story can also be a cornerstone for cherished family traditions. By recounting the story each year, we establish a sense of continuity and connection, reinforcing the importance of family and our values.

Your child’s involvement in local nativity or Christmas pageants (should they be comfortable and interested) also allows them to become active participants in their community.

Lessons from the Nativity Story

And as for the story itself? It weaves together lessons of kindness, humility and inclusivity. These values are treasures that will shape your child’s character and interactions with the world around them.

• Love and Compassion: The Nativity story is a testament to the power of love and compassion. Through the example of Mary and Joseph, children learn about the importance of supporting and caring for one another, especially in times of need.

• Humility and Gratitude: The humble birth of Jesus in a stable teaches children about the value of humility and gratitude. It encourages them to appreciate the simple joys in life and be grateful for the love and warmth surrounding them. It also paints the picture that the Savior of the world chose to join us in the most humble of ways, swaddled in a manger.

• Inclusivity and Acceptance: The Nativity story highlights the importance of inclusivity and open hearts. By teaching of the shepherds and the wisemen, the story shows how people from all walks of life have an important role in God’s grand story. 

Creating a Digestible Narrative for Young Learners

Teaching the Nativity story can be a wonderful bonding experience for the whole family. These tips can help you fully invest your young learners and help them more easily understand the story: 

1. Use Engaging Visuals: Young children are captivated by colorful and engaging visuals. Utilizing illustrations, videos or picture books can help them more easily visualize the characters and events in the story. Local events, like Toledo’s Nativity Festival, can be an exciting introduction! It’s also a special tradition for many families to have their own Nativity in their home as a visual reminder of the meaning of Christmas.

2. Simplify the Language: Break down the story into simpler language that is easy for young minds to grasp. Share the story in small, digestible segments, allowing them to absorb and understand each part before moving on to the next. Leave room for questions and invite your child to engage. You may also use this storytime to help develop your child’s reading skills.

3. Incorporate Interactive Elements: Encourage your children to participate in retelling the story using toys or props, fostering a sense of involvement and understanding. Consider making an at-home nativity scene for some hands-on, creative family fun!

Let’s Learn and Grow Together

At Children’s Discovery Center, your family comes first. Utilizing hands-on exploration, our compassionate educators and staff engage students in a Reggio Emilia philosophy-led educational approach that encourages forward-thinking and skill development. Our Toledo-area early childhood education centers are world-renowned, offering young students unique opportunities to express their creativity and foster their curiosity. Contact us to learn more and register your child.