How to Teach Kids the Meaning of Christmas

Christmas has come to be a time that many people dread because of the crowds and over-commercialism. Teach children early that Christmas has other meanings besides getting presents.

Instructions

1. Limit gift buying. Buy one gift per child.

2. Buy religious gifts for Christmas if you are raising your children in a specific religious tradition. It will help them associate the holiday with religion rather than Santa.

3. Volunteer as a family. Spend a day or an afternoon doing something to help those in need. It will give children a different perspective on things.

4. Encourage and help children to make their own presents. Teach them that it's the thought and not the amount of money you spend that makes a gift special.

5. Give a family donation to a worthy Christmas-related cause, such as Christmas Seals.

6. Spend time doing activities together. Make ornaments, go caroling, read Christmas stories or watch Christmas movies.

7. Encourage children to take part in Christmas drives at school. Help them collect items for donation.

8. Set an example. Engage in charitable acts and your children will follow suit.

Tips & Warnings

• Your behavior is important. Children imitate adults, so if you have the right Christmas spirit, they will too.