Christmas Books, Crafts, Recipes and More for Preschoolers

The following is a post from contributing writer Dianna Kennedy.

Without a doubt, Christmas books and crafts can help us bring even more holiday joy to our preschoolers, kindergarten and first grade students. I’ve collected a giant list of the books that we’ve used in our own home, along with crafts, printables and fun recipes for you to try.

1. Elf on the Shelf

How does Santa keep track of all the naughty and nice children? With a secret elf helper who reports back to him every night, of course!

Need some ideas for your Elf on the Shelf? Check out these fun thoughts from Little Blue Boo.

2. Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas

I don’t know any girls who don’t love Fancy Nancy! Don’t miss this Christmas edition!

Once you’re done with the book, make your own splendiferous, sparkly Christmas stocking.

3. Take a Mouse to the Movies – Christmas Edition

I’ve been reading Laura Numeroff to my children for over 15 years now. My children adore her characters. The tiny mouse is back again, heading to the movies and decorating the tree.

Decorate your own paper plate Christmas tree with your little ones. This is perfect for tactile learners!

4. Stick Man

Follow the story of Stick Man as he tries to get back to his family, helping Santa along the way.

Count down the days until Christmas with your own Santa calendar.

5. Christmas Cookies

This beautiful picture book takes us through the Christmas tradition we all hold dear – making cookies and celebrating!

Did someone make it on the naughty list? How about making some edible coal?

6. The Nutcracker

Seeing the Nutcracker ballet has become a holiday tradition for our family. This beautiful picture book is sure to be a treasure for years to come.

Save your toilet paper rolls, and make this Nutcracker craft before you see the ballet.

7. Merry Christmas Splat

Do your kids have trouble falling asleep on Christmas Eve? Be sure and read them the story of Splat – the cat who wants to stay awake long enough to see Santa!

Give rambunctious children some fun activities to burn off some energy with these Christmas action cards from Oopsey Daisy.

8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas

I remember watching the TV version of this story every year when I was a child. Be sure to add this to your collection.

Need some Christmas learning? Stop by Lawteedah for her Christmas Tot Pack.

9. Can You See What I See – Christmas Edition

Ever played I Spy? These books are filled with beautiful pictures, along with a list of items to find and enjoy with your children.

After you finish the book, help your little ones create their own cone Christmas tree.

10. The Christmas Magic

Read about Santa’s preparation for Christmas Eve, from feeding his reindeer to cleaning his sled.

Spread some Christmas magic of your own with these beautiful snowman pictures, made by your children. These are perfect for grandparent gifts!

Do you have a favorite book that I left off my list? Be sure and let me know in the comment box!

Dianna is the Catholic homeschooling mother of five – trying to stay fit and live her faith, all while managing a large family. She’s avoiding Christmas cookies while she’s finishing up a Couch to 5K program. She’s the host of Saints and Scripture Sundays each week, too. You can find her on Twitter, Facebook or Pinterest. 

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This post is linked to: Tot School, Sharing Time, Sunday Showcase, Sunday Showcase Party, Sundae Scoop Party, Homemaking Mondays, Making the World Cuter, Link and Learn,Hip Homeschool Hop, Magic Marker Mondays, Craftastic Monday, What’s in the Gunny Sack?, Polish the Stars, Better Mom Mondays,Motivate Me Monday, Market Yourself Monday, Made by You Monday, One Project at a Time, Top Ten Tuesdays, Lil Luna Tip Party, Sugar and Spice, Tip Me Tuesdays, Take a Look Tuesdays, Talent Tuesdays, Ta-da Tuesdays, Tuesday Time Out, Show and Tell #1, Show and Tell, Creative Share, Primp Your Stuff,Crafty Soiree, Works for Me Wednesday, The Mommy Club, Weekly Wrap-up at WUHS, House of Hepworths, Strut Your Stuff, For the Kids Friday, Home and Family Friday, Preschool Corner , Show Me Extraordinary, Pity Party, Do Something Crafty, Creative Genius Party, Frugal Friday, Friday Flair, Weekend Wrap Up, Get Schooled Saturday, and Kid’s Co-op.

Dianna Kennedy

Dianna Kennedy is the mother of six, writing at The Kennedy Adventures. She's a relaxed classical homeschooler, and loves to share practical tips for today's Catholic parent.
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