As an early childhood educator and a mom to two wonderful kids, Emily and Nethan, I can attest that reading Christmas picture books is one of the most delightful holiday activities you can share with your little ones. Here’s a curated list of our favorite Christmas books that are sure to bring joy, laughter, and a touch of magic to your holiday season.
Why We Love Christmas Picture Books
There’s something special about snuggling up with your kids and diving into a good book, especially during the holidays. It’s a time to create lasting memories, foster a love for reading, and enjoy some quality time together. Here are a few reasons why Christmas picture books are a staple in our holiday traditions:
- Humor and Illustrations: My kids and I adore books with humor and beautiful illustrations. They make the reading experience not just educational but also entertaining.
- Interactive Elements: Books with pop-up pictures, scratch-n-sniff elements, textured pages, or removable pieces are always a hit. They add an extra layer of fun and engagement.
- Holiday Spirit: Reading Christmas picture books helps us get into the holiday spirit. It’s a wonderful way to teach children about the values and traditions of the season.
Our Favorite Christmas Picture Books
Here are nine Christmas picture books that we thoroughly enjoy and highly recommend:
The Christmas Story: A Pop-Up Book
By Robert Sabuda
This book is a masterpiece with its absolutely gorgeous pop-ups that both kids and adults will marvel over. The detailed and intricate designs bring the Christmas story to life in a way that is both awe-inspiring and educational.
The Polar Express
By Chris van Allsburg
Before it was a movie, “The Polar Express” was a beloved picture book. This classic tale of a young boy’s magical journey to the North Pole is a must-read every holiday season. The beautiful illustrations and captivating story make it a family favorite.
Turkey Claus
By Wendi Silvano
Follow the hilarious adventures of a turkey who tries to avoid being Christmas dinner by dressing up as Santa Claus. This book is full of kid-approved humor and is sure to leave your little ones giggling.
The Sweet Smell of Christmas
By Patricia Scarry
What kid doesn’t love a scratch-n-sniff book? This charming book features six classic Christmastime scents, making it a sensory delight for young readers.
Santa Duck
By David Milgrim
In this fun and humorous tale, a duck is mistaken for Santa Claus, leading to a series of hilarious misunderstandings. The kid-friendly humor makes this one of our favorite Christmas picture books.
Snowmen at Night
By Caralyn Buehner
With catchy rhymes and cleverly hidden pictures on each page, “Snowmen at Night” is a delightful read. It’s a family favorite that we look forward to reading every year.
Dream Snow
By Eric Carle
Eric Carle’s dreamy book features transparent snow pages that overlay wintery scenes, creating a magical and interactive reading experience.
How Many Sleeps ’til Christmas?
By Mark Sperring
This adorable countdown to Christmas is perfect for building anticipation and excitement for the holiday. It’s a sweet way to help your kids count down the days until Santa arrives.
The Crayons’ Christmas
By Drew Daywalt
This book comes with envelopes and packages featuring removable pieces, making it an interactive and engaging read. It’s one of our favorites and always adds a special touch to our holiday reading list.
Making Reading a Holiday Tradition
Visiting the Library
We love finding new books at our local library. It’s a great way to discover new stories and authors while making reading a part of our holiday traditions.
Avoiding Late Fees (Mostly)
Let’s be honest, it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday hustle and forget to return those library books on time. But the fines are worth it for the joy of reading together!
Creating a Cozy Reading Environment
Snuggle up with blankets, hot cocoa, and some festive lights to create the perfect reading environment. This makes the experience even more special and something to look forward to every year.
What are Your Favorite Christmas Books?
We’d love to hear about your favorite Christmas books. Share your recommendations so we can add them to our holiday library and enjoy even more festive reads together.
Conclusion
Reading Christmas picture books is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season with your kids. It’s a time to bond, learn, and enjoy the magic of the season together. So grab a few of these enchanting books, snuggle up, and let the holiday spirit fill your hearts.
FAQs
What are some fun ways to engage kids while reading Christmas picture books?
Engage your kids by asking questions about the story, pointing out different characters and objects, and encouraging them to predict what will happen next.
Why are interactive books good for children?
Interactive books with pop-ups, scratch-n-sniff elements, and removable pieces help keep children engaged and can enhance their fine motor skills and curiosity.
How can I make reading a part of our holiday tradition?
Make reading a tradition by setting aside a special time each day or week to read Christmas books together. Create a cozy reading environment and involve your kids in the process of selecting new books.
What age group are these Christmas picture books suitable for?
These books are generally suitable for preschoolers and early elementary school children, but they can be enjoyed by kids of all ages.
Can I find these books at my local library?
Yes, most of these books should be available at your local library. If not, you can always request them or find them through interlibrary loan programs.
