Looking for Christmas activities for kids that you can do together? How about reading Christmas picture books? We all have a favorite book from when we were kids. Is yours a classic tale? Perhaps it’s a story that was turned into a movie?
Or maybe you love any magical Christmas story that you can get your hands on! We’re sharing several enchanting holiday tales that are perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and kids of all ages. The youngest ones will love looking through them, even if they don’t sit still while you read aloud.
Also, grab the printable book list at the end of this post so you can check them off as you finish them. These books also make great Christmas gifts for kids!
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Make Christmas Memories Through Picture Books
Remember the storybook you wanted to hear over and over when you were young? Do your kids have a favorite that they love to hear on repeat?
My personal favorites as a child were The Night Before Christmas and The Polar Express. The magic and suspense of a good Christmas story never gets old, not even for us who are “old!” Ha.
Parents, loved ones, and teachers can play such an important role in a child’s life by reading to them.
The wonder in a child’s eyes as they’re invited into a picture storybook is a treasure to behold. Even older kids love being read to by a loved one.
Imaginations and ideas come to life as you dive into the pages of great classic tales or explore new storybooks. Reading Christmas stories together makes a wonderful Christmas tradition to start with your family.
Consider the adventure of creating your own family storybook! Maybe you’ve got a fabulous storyteller in your home and another child who loves to illustrate.
Put these talents together and make your own book! Then enjoy passing it down through future generations.
Upper elementary aged children may also enjoy creating their own pop up Christmas book!
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Benefits of Reading Aloud for Kids
During the holiday season, reading aloud with kids is not just a cozy and comforting activity, but it’s also an incredible way to nurture their language skills, comprehension, and cognitive development.
It creates a special bond between the reader and the child, filled with shared adventures and emotions that stories bring to life. Reading Christmas picture books can become a beloved tradition, blending the magic of the holiday season with the enchantment of storytelling.
It fosters a love for reading, sparks imagination, and imparts valuable lessons woven into the narratives. Moreover, this practice allows kids to associate positive emotions and memories with reading, igniting their lifelong journey of learning.
Want more book suggestions? Check out these fall picture books for preschoolers.
More Christmas Learning Activities
Brimming with holiday cheer, Christmas-themed learning activities are a delightful way to combine festive fun with valuable educational experiences. Pairing these activities with reading holiday-themed books can form an immersive Christmas unit for kids.
This approach seamlessly blends literacy with hands-on learning, helping to solidify concepts and enhance comprehension.
Engage your little ones in a range of holiday crafts, puzzles, and games that reflect the themes, characters, and lessons found in their favorite Christmas books.
This could include creating Santa’s workshop with blocks after reading “Santa’s Workshop“, or a winter sensory bin inspired by “The Snowy Day”.
Don’t forget to include our roll a Christmas tree printable dice game for extra fun and learning! It’s an entertaining way to work on early math skills.
By bridging the gap between story time and playtime, we create memorable learning experiences that encourage imagination, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the spirit of Christmas.
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Christmas Picture Books for Kids
Enjoy sharing the gift of wonderful stories with your children this Christmas. Visit your local library if you need fresh ideas for some Christmas picture books.
But before you go, grab this printable book list and jump into some new pages of Christmas excitement, or renew some of your favorites.
Classic and new titles are included in our list! You can also see all of these Christmas books in our Amazon shop for added shopping convenience.
The Night Before Christmas Board Book: The Classic Edition
"The Night Before Christmas" by Clement Moore and Charles Santore is a beloved holiday classic that captures the magic and excitement of Christmas Eve. With beautiful illustrations and timeless storytelling, it brings joy to readers of all ages.
Polar Express 30th Anniversary Edition: A Christmas Holiday Book for Kids
"The Polar Express" by Chris Van Allsburg is a beloved children's book that takes readers on a magical journey to the North Pole. This enchanting tale captures the spirit of Christmas and the power of belief.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
"How the Grinch Stole Christmas" by Dr. Seuss is a beloved holiday classic that tells the heartwarming story of the Grinch's transformation from a Christmas-hating grouch to a symbol of love and generosity.
Bear Stays Up for Christmas
"Bear Stays Up For Christmas" by Karma Wilson is a heartwarming children's book that tells the story of Bear and his friends as they celebrate Christmas together.
How Do Dinosaurs Say Merry Christmas?
"How Do Dinosaurs Say Merry Christmas?" by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague is a delightful children's book that explores how dinosaurs celebrate the holiday season in their own unique way.
Home for Christmas
"Home For Christmas" by Jan Brett recounts the tale of a mischievous troll who resents his chores. However, after a short visit with other families, he gains a newfound appreciation for his own.
The Littlest Elf
"The Littlest Elf" by Brandi Doughtery is a delightful children's book that takes young readers on an enchanting adventure with a tiny and determined elf.
Llama Llama Holiday Drama
"Llama Llama Holiday Drama" by Anna Dewdney is a delightful children's book that captures the excitement and challenges of the holiday season through the eyes of a lovable llama.
Dream Snow
"Dream Snow" by Eric Carle is a charming children's book that tells the story of a farmer who dreams of snow and surprises his animals with a special gift.
Click, Clack, Ho! Ho! Ho!
"Click Clack Ho! Ho! Ho!" by Doreen Cronin is a humorous children's book that captures the holiday spirit with the mischievous farm animals from the beloved "Click, Clack, Moo" series.
The Biggest Christmas Tree Ever
"The Biggest Christmas Tree Ever" by Steven Kroll is a delightful holiday tale about two mice friends who are both determined to find the biggest tree there is, but end up working together to create the most magnificent Christmas tree ever.
Snowmen at Christmas
"Snowmen at Christmas" by Caralyn Buehner is a delightful children's book that captures the magic and whimsy of snowmen coming to life and celebrating Christmas.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
"Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer" by Rick Bunsen is a beloved holiday tale that follows the journey of Rudolph, a reindeer with a unique and glowing red nose, as he discovers his true potential and saves Christmas.
The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey
"The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey" by Susan Wojciechowski is a heartwarming tale that follows the transformation of a grumpy woodcarver as he forms a special bond with a young boy and his mother, bringing hope and healing during the holiday season.
The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree: An Appalachian Story
"The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree" by Gloria Houston is a heartwarming holiday tale that captures the joy and resilience of a family during challenging times.
Christmas Farm
"Christmas Farm" by Mary Lyn Ray is a delightful holiday tale that captures the enchantment of the season. Join the journey of a young girl and her family as they prepare their Christmas tree farm for the most wonderful time of the year.
Legend of the Christmas Stocking
"The Legend of the Christmas Stocking" by Rick Osborne is a heartwarming tale that captures the magic and meaning behind the beloved Christmas tradition of hanging stockings.
The Story of Holly and Ivy
"The Story of Holly and Ivy" by Rumder Godden is a heartwarming tale that follows the journey of Ivy, a lonely orphan girl, and a Christmas doll named Holly, as they both long for a place to call home.
The Jolly Christmas Postman
"The Jolly Christmas Postman" by Janet & Allan Ahlberg is a delightful and interactive children's book that follows the journey of a postman delivering festive surprises to various fairytale characters.
Madeline's Christmas
"Madeline's Christmas" by Ludwig Bemelman is a beloved children's book that tells the heartwarming story of Madeline and her friends celebrating Christmas in Paris.
Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree
"Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree" by Robert Barry is a heartwarming holiday tale that captures the joy and magic of the season. Follow Mr. Willowby as he shares the love of his towering Christmas tree with others, spreading happiness and cheer.
The Christmas Crocodile
"The Christmas Crocodile" by Bonny Becker is an entertaining holiday tale that follows the misadventures of a crocodile who unexpectedly joins a family's Christmas celebrations.
Very Christmas
"Very Christmas" by Simone Mets is a heartwarming holiday tale about Ava and her friends who find a way to save Christmas and spread joy through friendship and selflessness.
The Christmas Surprise
"The Christmas Surprise" authored by A.J. Wood and illustrated by Maggie Kneen, is a charming holiday book that perfectly captures the enchantment and anticipation of Christmas.
With stunning illustrations and a heartwarming narrative, this delightful story is certain to bring joy to readers of all ages. The combination of a simple rhyming tale and an engaging hide-and-seek game will undoubtedly captivate and delight.
Dance at Grandpa's (Little House Prequel)
"Dance at Grandpa's" by Laura Ingalls Wilder is a captivating book that takes readers on a delightful journey filled with dance and family connections.
How Santa Got His Job
"How Santa Got His Job" by Stephen Krensky is a delightful story about all the different jobs Santa had when he was young. It wasn't until he met group of elves that he discovered his dream job of delivering presents.
The Biggest Snowball Ever!
"The Biggest Snowball Ever" by John Rogan is a delightful children's book that takes young readers on an exciting adventure. This captivating tale is brimming with action-packed rhymes that will captivate young minds.
Who Will Guide My Sleigh Tonight?
"Who Will Guide My Sleigh Tonight" by Jerry Pallotta is a delightful holiday book that tells the story of Santa Claus and his search for the perfect animals to lead his sleigh on Christmas Eve.
The Nutcracker
"The Nutcracker" by Alison Jay is a truly captivating book that beautifully brings to life the beloved holiday tale. With stunning illustrations and enchanting storytelling, it is sure to capture the hearts of readers young and old.
The Tailor of Gloucester
"The Tailor of Gloucester" by Beatrix Potter is a charming children's book that tells the story of a kind tailor and his mischievous mice helpers.
Fostering a love for reading in your children can be made even more special when the stories revolve around the cozy and magical spirit of Christmas. These books not only entertain but also teach valuable lessons and ignite the imagination.
So, why wait? Grab your printable list and embark on a delightful literary journey infused with the joy of the holiday season.
Whether it’s a visit to your local library, a quick online order, or a thoughtful gift for a loved one, let these Christmas picture books add a touch of enchantment to your child’s festive season.