Christmas Morning (Paperback 2012)
What’s inside...
Cumulative rhyme featuring traditions of Christmas, including snow, St. Nick, and a nutcracker. Filled with the wonderful traditions of Christmas, this story is a poetic, holiday twist on a favorite rhyme! This is the house where the children slept. This is the snow that fell on the house where the children slept. This is the Christmas story that takes the framework of 'This Is the House That Jack Built' and constructs a wonderful story of the magic of Christmas Eve. The rhyme builds up to the climax of Christmas morning and wonderful presents to open. With its repetition, the text is fun to read aloud; and the gorgeous illustrations perfectly capture the wonder of Christmas!
Age
3-5
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the family's Christmas morning, and why?
How do you think the characters felt when they were opening their gifts?
What are some ways you could spread joy like the characters did on Christmas morning?
If you could give any character in the book a gift, who would it be and what would you give them?
How do you think the story would change if it was set on a different holiday?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the book's scenarios to their own experiences by sharing memories of your family’s past Christmases. Ask your child to consider the emotions of the characters and compare how they might feel in similar situations. Use open-ended questions to promote critical thinking and empathy. After discussing the book, engage your child in a creative activity such as drawing a picture of their ideal Christmas morning or writing a short story inspired by the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The joy of giving
Explanation: In 'Christmas Morning,' the characters demonstrate the happiness derived from giving gifts to others, rather than just receiving.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take pleasure in the act of giving and can practice this by sharing their toys or making gifts for family and friends.
Example Lesson: The importance of family traditions
Explanation: The story centers around family members coming together to celebrate Christmas, highlighting cherished family traditions.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and partake in their own family traditions, understanding their significance in building family bonds.
Example Lesson: Gratitude
Explanation: Characters in the book express thankfulness for the gifts they receive and the time spent with loved ones.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to express gratitude for the things and people in their lives, fostering a positive attitude and appreciation.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story shows characters being considerate of each other's feelings, especially in gift-giving and sharing moments together.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize and respond to the feelings and needs of others, building stronger, empathetic relationships.