Create New Advent Traditions with Your Kids

Children and youth like to spend holiday time with adults even if they don't express it or initiate a specific activity. Being physically near a caring parent can be calming and open the door for conversation. Going to the park playground or sports field together can be the outing that clears everyone's stress. Reading an Advent or Christmas book together can help to spur wonder or questions about faith. I will share some simple Advent and Epiphany activity sheets that you can do with your young child.

We look forward to the fourth week of Advent which explores the theme of love. On the first week of Advent, we made and Advent wreath and lit the purple Hope: Prophecy Candle. On the second week, we lit the purple Peace: Bethlehem Candle. On the third week, we lit the pink Joy: Shepherd's Candle. On the fourth week we light the purple Love: Angel's Candle. On Christmas Eve, we will light the central white Christ Candle. Here is an Advent candle worksheet to do with your child.

Christmas is not over on December 25. We continue watching the growth of Baby Jesus until Epiphany Sunday when the magi or three Persian astrologers followed the star to find and celebrate Jesus. This period of time is referred to as Twelfth Night. At Calvary we like to choose a star word and then think about that word through our the year. This word's meaning can guide your morning meditation, lead a prayer before bed or shape a daily practice that brings rest, connection or joy. At Calvary, on Sunday, December 31, you can choose a star word during worship. If you are on vacation that Sunday, you can choose your word later on in January. Here is an Epiphany star word activity sheet you can do with your child or youth.

While you are waiting for a plane or having a relaxing day at home with your family, read some of these Advent books with your child. Here is a list of books. Ask your child to share the best thing and worst thing that happened that day. Try using open-ended phrases when talking about faith, Advent and Christmas: "I wonder what would happen if..." "What do you think about this...?" The gentler and less judgmental we are with ourselves, the more present and flexible we can be with our children and youth. Blessings to you this Advent season.