The Best Christmas Books for Kids That Teach Kindness
The Best Christmas Books for Kids That Teach Kindness
The holiday season is a magical time, especially for children. It’s a time filled with joy, anticipation, and the spirit of giving. One of the best ways to teach children about the true meaning of Christmas—kindness, generosity, and compassion—is through books. Christmas stories not only entertain but also impart valuable lessons that can shape a child’s character. If you’re looking for some heartwarming reads to share with your little ones this holiday season, here are some of the best Christmas books for kids that teach kindness. These stories can help spread the holiday spirit while teaching children the importance of being kind to others.
1. “The Giving Snowman” by Julia Zheng
This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a snowman who selflessly helps others during a harsh winter. With each act of kindness, he gives away a part of himself to make life better for those around him. The book is a great way to teach children about selflessness and the joy of giving. It’s a perfect reminder that the holiday season isn’t just about receiving gifts but also about spreading love and warmth.
The Giving Snowman: Buy it here and have it ready for their Christmas story collection. It’s perfect for cozy winter nights.
2. “Bear Stays Up for Christmas” by Karma Wilson
In this charming tale, Bear’s friends help him stay awake to experience the joy of Christmas. Together, they prepare for the festivities, decorate the tree, and share in the holiday spirit. Despite being tired, Bear is determined to stay up to help his friends and give back to them for all the times they’ve taken care of him. The story is a great way to show kids the importance of friendship, gratitude, and being there for the people you love.
Bear Stays Up for Christmas: Buy it here as the perfect bedtime story during the holiday season. You can enjoy it with your kids while sipping hot cocoa.
3. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss
No Christmas book list would be complete without Dr. Seuss’s classic story of the Grinch. At first, the Grinch is set on stealing Christmas from the Whos of Whoville, but he soon realizes that Christmas isn’t about presents or decorations—it’s about love and togetherness. This story is perfect for teaching children that kindness can transform even the grumpiest of hearts and that the true spirit of Christmas lives in acts of love and compassion.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!: You can buy the hardcover edition or an audiobook version for car rides during holiday travel.
4. “The Christmas Wish” by Lori Evert
“The Christmas Wish” follows the journey of a brave little girl named Anja who sets off on a quest to help Santa. As she encounters different animals, they each help her along the way, teaching young readers about cooperation, kindness, and the magic that happens when you lend a helping hand. The beautiful photographs in the book make it feel like a real-life fairytale, adding to the magic of the story.
The Christmas Wish: Buy it here as it makes a wonderful gift and comes in a beautifully illustrated hardcover, perfect for holiday presents.
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5. “The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving” by Jan & Mike Berenstain
The beloved Berenstain Bears series brings us a story where Brother and Sister Bear learn that Christmas is about more than just presents under the tree. As they prepare for the annual Christmas play, they come to realize the joy of giving to others. This book serves as a gentle reminder to children about the true meaning of Christmas, making it a valuable addition to any holiday reading list.
The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving: You can gift “The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving” as part of a set of Christmas-themed books or even a whole Berenstain Bears collection.
6. “The Mitten” by Jan Brett
Although not exclusively a Christmas story, “The Mitten” is perfect for the winter season. This enchanting tale is about a boy who loses his mitten in the snow, and various woodland animals find warmth and comfort in it. The story is a lovely example of sharing, as each animal squeezes in to stay warm. It’s a great way to illustrate to children that sharing what you have, even if it’s small, can make a big difference to someone else.
The Mitten: You can purchase the book here along with other Jan Brett winter-themed titles to create a cozy reading nook experience for the season.
7. “The Tale of Three Trees” by Angela Elwell Hunt
This story may not be a traditional Christmas tale, but it holds a powerful message about following your dreams and finding purpose in unexpected ways. It tells the tale of three trees with aspirations to become something great. As they grow, they find themselves fulfilling roles they never imagined, but which ultimately serve a much greater purpose. The story can be tied to the Christmas message of hope, kindness, and finding joy in giving.
The Tale of Three Trees: I recommend this book as a meaningful Christmas Eve read that can be passed down from generation to generation.
8. “The Legend of the Poinsettia” by Tomie dePaola
This retelling of a Mexican folktale brings the legend of the poinsettia to life, teaching children about generosity and the spirit of giving from the heart. It follows the story of a young girl who tries to make a gift for the Baby Jesus but ends up with only a humble bouquet of weeds. However, through a miracle, the weeds turn into beautiful poinsettias, symbolizing the beauty in giving from the heart.
The Legend of the Poinsettia: Pair the book with a small poinsettia plant as a holiday gift bundle, offering a unique and thoughtful Christmas present.
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9. “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg
This classic story of a young boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole beautifully illustrates the themes of belief and the wonder of the holiday season. At its core, the story encourages children to believe in the magic of Christmas and shows that the holiday spirit is best felt when shared with others. It’s a wonderful book for teaching kindness through the joy of giving and believing.
The Polar Express: The deluxe edition of “The Polar Express” includes a keepsake ornament or a bell, just like in the story. Perfect for adding a touch of magic to Christmas Eve traditions.
10. “The Carpenter’s Gift: A Christmas Tale about the Rockefeller Center Tree” by David Rubel
“The Carpenter’s Gift” is a touching story about a young boy named Henry and his family during the Great Depression. When a group of construction workers helps Henry’s family, it sparks a tradition of kindness that culminates in the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. The book not only teaches children about giving and community but also brings a historical perspective to the holiday season.
The Carpenter’s Gift: Suggest gifting this book with a small wooden craft kit or Christmas ornament as a DIY holiday activity.
Why Christmas Books Are Important for Teaching Kindness
Reading Christmas books that emphasize kindness can instill valuable life lessons in children. These stories often show characters demonstrating empathy, selflessness, and the joy of giving, which can inspire children to exhibit these qualities in their own lives. Books provide a unique way to experience different perspectives and help kids understand that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact.
Making Storytime Special
Creating a special storytime during the holiday season can become a cherished family tradition. Consider setting aside a few nights each week to read one of these books by the fireplace, or start a “25 Days of Christmas Books” countdown where you read a new book each night leading up to Christmas Day. Not only does this make the holiday season more magical, but it also gives you the opportunity to teach important values through storytelling.
Final Thoughts
The holiday season is the perfect time to teach children about the importance of kindness, compassion, and the spirit of giving. Books are a wonderful way to spark meaningful conversations and help kids understand the true meaning of Christmas. With these heartfelt stories, you can help instill these valuable lessons in your children while creating lasting holiday memories.
Take this opportunity to add some of these books to your family’s collection, and let the spirit of kindness fill your home this Christmas.
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