Waiting for Noel: An Advent Story
What’s inside...
As Nodl's family lights the Advent candles each week before Christmas, Nodl's father tells her the special story of the year her family waited and prepared for her birth on Christmas Day. Reprint.
Age
4-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Noel will bring when she arrives, and why?
How do the characters in the story show they are excited for Noel's arrival?
Can you describe how each character helps to prepare for Noel?
What feelings do you experience as you wait for something special, like Noel?
How do you think the story would change if Noel arrived earlier than expected?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, use expressive tones and gestures to highlight the excitement and anticipation portrayed in the story.
Encourage your child to compare their own experiences of waiting for a special event to those of the characters in the book.
Ask your child to draw or describe their ideal version of Noel’s arrival, stimulating their imagination and connecting them more deeply with the story’s themes.
Link discussions about the story to upcoming family events or holidays to make the themes of anticipation and preparation more relatable and vivid.
Praise your child for their insights and encourage them to think critically about how waiting can affect different people in different ways.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Patience and Anticipation
Explanation: The story revolves around the theme of waiting during the Advent period, which teaches children the values of patience and anticipation as Christmas approaches.
Real-World Application: Children can relate this to their own experiences of waiting for important events and learning to appreciate the excitement that builds during the waiting period.
Example Lesson: Understanding Seasonal Traditions
Explanation: Through the story, children learn about the traditions and meanings behind the Advent season, which are part of cultural and religious celebrations.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps children develop a respect for cultural and religious differences by understanding why and how people celebrate events like Christmas.
Example Lesson: Family Togetherness
Explanation: The characters in the book experience Advent as a family, highlighting the importance of spending time together and sharing moments.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to partake in family traditions, understand family values, and spend meaningful time with loved ones.
Example Lesson: Joy of Giving and Sharing
Explanation: As part of the Advent story, the theme of giving and sharing with others is prevalent, reflecting the spirit of Christmas.
Real-World Application: The book can inspire children to practice acts of kindness, learn the importance of sharing, and the joy it brings to others.
Example Lesson: Building Excitement and Positive Expectation
Explanation: Waiting for Noel ignites excitement for the upcoming celebrations, demonstrating a positive outlook towards the future.
Real-World Application: Children learn to look forward to and prepare joyously for upcoming events and milestones, fostering a positive attitude.