Christmas Carols
Usborne Music Books Series
on Goodreads (13)
What’s inside...
Provides words and music for 'Away in a manger,' 'I heard the bells on Christmas day,' 'Joy to the world,' 'Deck the halls,' 'Jingle bells,' 'O Christmas tree,' and 'The twelve days of Christmas.'
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What is your favorite Christmas carol from the book, and what feelings does it evoke in you?
How do you think the people in the carols feel during Christmas time?
Why do you think singing together is a tradition during Christmas?
What are some ways we can spread joy like the characters in these carols?
If you could write your own Christmas carol, what would it be about?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, sing some of the carols together to make the interaction more lively and memorable.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on each carol, focusing on the emotions and messages conveyed through the lyrics.
Connect the carols to personal family traditions during Christmas to make the conversation more relatable and meaningful.
Discuss the history or origin of their favorite carol to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the song.
Encourage creativity by helping your child write a simple Christmas carol, using their favorite elements from the ones in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: Through the act of singing Christmas carols to neighbors, the characters in the book demonstrate the happiness that comes from giving joy to others, rather than focusing solely on receiving.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to derive happiness from simple acts of kindness, like sharing toys or helping a friend, enhancing their empathy and social connections.
Example Lesson: Importance of community
Explanation: The book illustrates the characters coming together to sing carols, showcasing how collective activities can foster a sense of community and belonging.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in community activities such as group sports or local events to strengthen their social ties and contribute to societal wellbeing.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: By exploring the tradition of Christmas caroling, the book introduces children to cultural practices and the joy embedded in them, promoting cultural awareness and appreciation.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to learn about and respect various traditions and festivals, cultivating an inclusive mindset from a young age.
Example Lesson: Value of tradition
Explanation: The book reinforces the importance of traditions and how they connect us to our past and enhance our celebrations.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to partake in family traditions or even help create new ones, helping them understand the importance of history and continuity in shaping our identity.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and cooperation
Explanation: As the characters prepare and organize the caroling, they demonstrate effective teamwork and cooperation.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s everyday life through group projects at school or cooperative games, teaching them valuable collaboration skills.