I never put much thought into introducing Santa in my first child’s life. When they are small and you say something is from Santa it has very little meaning. But then they get bigger, and honestly the world is getting scarier.
This year my “big kid” is 5, and he’s so excited about Jesus’ birthday. He also talks a lot about Santa. So I’m taking the time to find ways we can make sure we know the true reason for the season.
1. Opt for a Christian alternative to elf on the shelf. There’s a commercially sold Shepherd on the Search plush doll. I found an account on Instagram that uses plastic Wisemen toys who go around following the star until Christmas when they find Jesus. The elf isn’t bad, and could even follow along to find baby Jesus in the manger on Christmas morning and learn the real meaning of Christmas along with the children.
2. Sing a hymn or new-age Christian Christmas song each day leading up to Christmas.
3. Hang a nail on your tree to remind you of the crucifixion of Jesus.
4. Put the focus on giving to and serving others as Jesus would do.
5. Attend Church services during the Christmas season.
6. Read the Christmas story with your family.
7. Before you begin open presents when the time comes spend time together singing a song of praise and time praying and thanking God for the season.
8. Put up a nativity together in a place that it will be seen daily through the Christmas season.
It can seem daunting to think about making sure our children know Jesus, but children really are the quickest to understand. Take the time to learn about the true meaning right alongside them!
