The Soldiers' Night Before Christmas
Little Golden Books Series
on Goodreads (157)
What’s inside...
Inspired by the famous Christmas poem, 'The Night Before Christmas,' this picture book about Christmas in the Army is perfect for children of military families and anyone with loved ones serving overseas. On Christmas Eve at a military barracks in the Middle East, homesick soldiers are visited by Sergeant McClaus, the Santa of Soldiers. This lively and poignant tale, drawing from Clement C. Moore's classic yuletide poem, captures the dreams of soldiers yearning for home on Christmas Day.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the soldiers felt being away from their families during Christmas?
What traditions do you notice the soldiers have? How are they similar or different from our traditions?
What does the visit from Santa mean to the soldiers in the story?
How can we show appreciation to those who can't be home during holidays?
What would you do if you were a character in this story during Christmas?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child how they would feel in the soldiers’ shoes, promoting an understanding of different perspectives.
Discuss the importance of community and support during festive seasons, especially for those who are away from home.
Highlight acts of kindness in the story and ask how your child might replicate these gestures in their own life.
Use the illustrations in the book as a starting point to talk about the emotions and setting of the story, promoting observational skills.
Connect the story to real-world events, such as news about soldiers during holidays, to make the themes more relevant and impactful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness and giving
Explanation: The story showcases the soldiers being visited by 'Sergeant McClaus' who brings them presents on Christmas Eve, highlighting the theme of generosity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the joy in giving and helping others, applying this by sharing their toys or helping a friend in need.
Example Lesson: Respect and appreciation for military personnel
Explanation: The book portrays soldiers in a positive light, emphasizing their sacrifices and fostering respect.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to show respect and gratitude toward military personnel in their community, such as writing thank you letters to soldiers.
Example Lesson: Value of collaboration and camaraderie
Explanation: Soldiers in the story work together and support each other, which is crucial in their environment.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to work cooperatively in team settings whether in sports, classroom projects, or family activities.
Example Lesson: Celebrating traditions while being away from home
Explanation: Despite being far from home and in a different setting, the soldiers celebrate Christmas together, showing resilience and the importance of keeping traditions alive.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the importance of maintaining cultural and family traditions, regardless of their circumstances.