When you hear the word Advent, is a child’s calendar the first thing that comes to mind? On this episode of Home School Heartbeat, host Mike Smith shares how the simple tradition of an Advent calendar can make Christmas more meaningful in your household.
Mike Smith:
Advent calendars originated at a time when most people could not read. By drawing a chalk mark on their front doors each day, starting with December 1st, they knew when Christmas had arrived. In Germany, families would hang a wreath with 25 tiny bags on it, each one containing a treat. The children opened one bag a day until Christmas. Now, we combine those activities into an Advent calendar.
Advent calendars come in all shapes and sizes—some families make their own. Your calendar might have ornaments to hang on the Christmas tree, or it might feature part of the Christmas story every day. The important thing is that the calendar provides a way for your family to anticipate Christmas on a daily basis.
Try to set aside a few moments a day for your whole family to join in the calendar activity. Since the Advent calendar originated as a tool to help children and others who could not read, make sure that your youngest children can fully participate. But don’t leave out the older children and you, Mom and Dad—we can all benefit from this daily reminder of what the season is truly about.
It’s a good idea to spend a moment or two considering what Christ’s nativity means to each of you. You might want to pray together or answer a thought-provoking question. Taking this short daily breather can help you keep Jesus at the center of your Christmas. And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.
