Photo: DaySpring
AAs much as I love all the decorating ideas and enjoy the food and gifts, I always try to keep a clear focus on what matters most at home. Celebrating a season of gratitude and giving is important to our family. Because we are Christian, I want my children to understand and celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas and what that event means for our faith. Both Thanksgiving and Christmas are valuable opportunities to teach our kids and grandkids the deeper meaning behind the holidays.
But how do we do that creatively and effectively? It’s challenging to keep the true reasons for the season in view, especially when children base their gift lists on television, store displays, or what their friends are talking about. The holidays can easily shift toward materialism instead of gratitude, generosity, and spiritual observance.
Photo: DaySpring
I’d love to collect ideas in the comments about how you help your children appreciate the meaning of the holidays. Many of you have already written about this on your blogs, and if you’re willing to share a tip or two here about what your family does during the holidays, it would be a great source of inspiration.
I’ll include a Mr. Linky for anyone who writes a post about making the holidays meaningful for their family—beyond decorating and gift giving (or how you manage gifts so they don’t get out of hand). This specific link-up is for posts that focus on “the reason for the season.” If you write about ways to celebrate with intention, please link those posts here in the coming weeks so others can find ideas and encouragement. We’ll continue with the Friday Holiday Linky as well, but please use this thread for meaning-centered holiday posts only.
If you’re curious about my unusual approach to holiday shopping and want a few gift ideas, feel free to visit HomeGoods where I’m sharing today’s post.
DaySpring offers thoughtful, inspirational gifts and products. They recently sent me a lovely collection of items that were high quality and beautifully made. If you’re looking for meaningful gifts or something special for yourself, consider browsing their selection and using any available offers.
Please link to specific posts (including archived posts) that share practical ways you keep your family focused on the true meaning of the holiday season, or simply share your ideas in the comments.