Christmas is a special time for Christian families, not only to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, but also to pass on to children the essential values of the faith. Through Bible stories, traditions and acts of sharing, Christmas becomes a unique opportunity to teach love, generosity, humility and peace. This article explores the main Christian values to instil in children at Christmas, as well as practical ways of living them out as a family.

Love: at the heart of the Christmas message

God's love for humanity:

Christmas recalls the supreme gift of God's love: the sending of his only Son, Jesus Christ, to save humanity. This act of unconditional love is the foundation of the Christian faith and a universal message to pass on to children.

"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16) Parents can explain to children that God's love is an example to follow, by loving others as Jesus loves us.

Love of neighbour:

Christmas is also an invitation to love our neighbours, especially the most vulnerable. Children can learn to express this love through simple gestures: helping a fellow child, being attentive to the needs of a brother or sister, or showing gratitude towards their loved ones.

Generosity: giving with a sincere heart

Giving in the image of the Magi:

In the Nativity story, the Magi offer gifts to the Christ Child: gold, frankincense and myrrh. These symbolic gestures show the importance of giving, not out of obligation, but with sincerity and devotion. Parents can encourage their children to reflect on the meaning of giving: it's not the material value that counts, but the intention behind the act.

Generosity towards those in need:

Christmas is an ideal time to raise children's awareness of poverty and the importance of sharing with those who have less. Families can take part together in charitable actions: donating toys or clothes to associations, preparing meals for isolated or homeless people, visiting elderly or sick neighbours.

These gestures teach children that generosity is a concrete expression of Christian love.

Humility: learning to recognise what is essential

The humility of Jesus' birth: 

Jesus was born in a humble stable, far from palaces and riches. This context reminds us that true greatness lies not in power or possession, but in simplicity and love. Children can learn to value the simple things in life: family, shared moments and gratitude for blessings received.

Living Christmas without excess: 

In a society often marked by consumerism, it is important to teach children not to seek to always have more. Christmas can be experienced as a time of simplicity, focusing on human relationships and meaningful experiences.

Peace: a call to reconciliation

The Christmas message of peace:

The angels announce the birth of Jesus with this message: "Peace on earth to the people he loves." (Luke 2:14) Parents can explain that Christmas is an opportunity to build bridges and rebuild relationships, within the family and beyond.

Learning to forgive: Children can be encouraged to forgive arguments or misunderstandings. This can start with simple gestures: asking a brother or sister for forgiveness after a quarrel, expressing gratitude for an effort or a gift, taking part in family moments of reconciliation.

Faith: strengthening the relationship with God

Discovering the Nativity:  Telling children the story of the Nativity is a powerful way of introducing them to the Christian faith. Parents can read the biblical passages from Matthew and Luke, while explaining their meaning.

Experiencing family rituals:Prayers, blessings of the nativity scene or carols are all opportunities to strengthen faith as a family. Children can take an active part in these rituals, by reciting prayers or playing a role in a living nativity scene.

Hope: believing in a better future

Jesus, source of hope: The birth of Jesus is a message of hope for humanity. Parents can explain to children that even in difficult times, faith in God can bring light and comfort.

Cultivating hope in everyday life: Children can be encouraged to see the positive around them and to be bearers of hope for others, by supporting a friend in difficulty or expressing gratitude

Practical tips for passing on Christian values

Create a family nativity scene: Involving children in setting up the nativity scene is a fun and spiritual way of explaining the Christmas story to them.

Reading adapted Bible books: Illustrated children's Bible stories can make the narratives more accessible and captivating.

Involve children in acts of generosity: Inviting them to choose a toy to give away or take part in a donation drive helps them to integrate the value of sharing.

Organise times of prayer: Take a daily time to pray as a family, thanking God for his blessings and praying for others.

Singing carols: Christmas carols can be a joyful way to celebrate the birth of Jesus while conveying spiritual messages.