Advent is the beginning of the church year and a special time of waiting and preparing for Christmas. The word Advent means “coming” or “arrival.” As we get ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus, we explore the gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love. Through stories, activities, and prayer, children discover how to share God’s love with everyone and help make the world a kinder, more peaceful, and more just place.
Use the ideas below to engage your family in the season of Advent.
📖 Read: Christmas Picture Books to Enjoy Together
- How Many Miles to Bethlehem? - Kevin Crossley-Holland, illustrated by Peter Malone
- Who Is Coming to Our House? - Joseph Slate, illustrated by Ashley Wolff
- Song of the Stars: A Christmas Story - Sally Lloyd-Jones, illustrated by Alison Jay
- Humphrey's First Christmas - Carol Heyer
- 'Twas the Season of Advent - Glenys Nellist, illustrated by Elena Selivanova
🎵 Listen: Stories and Music for Advent
- Look! A Child's Guide to Advent and Christmas - Listen to a reading of Laura Alary's book, illustrated by Ann Boyajian
- Calming Nature Music for Kids - The Good and the Beautiful
- Sounding Joy - Ellie Holcomb
🎬 Watch: Discover Advent Together
- Advent Wreath - Chuck Knows Church
- What Is Advent? - Advent Explained by Kids
💬 Wonder: Questions to Explore Together
- What is something you've been excited to wait for?
- What did waiting feel like? Was it easy or hard?
- What helped you while you waited?
- What is something you hope for?
- Where do you see Jesus' love in the world around you?
- How have you felt Jesus close to you?
- How can you share Jesus' love with someone today?
- Where have you noticed kindness, peace, or hope growing around you?
🙏 Pray: An Advent Prayer for Children
Dear God,
As we wait and get ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus, open our hearts to your love. As the light of our Advent candles grows, help us shine your light in the world. Teach us to love one another, welcome everyone, care for those who are hurting, and work together for a world filled with hope, peace, joy, and love.
May we see you in one another and share your love wherever we go.
Amen.
🕯️ Do: Make an Advent Wreath
There are lots of simple ways to make an Advent wreath. Try this simple Advent wreath idea for your home. Light one candle during the first week of Advent, two during the second week, and continue adding a candle each week. Have an adult supervise any lit candles.
Explore Advent at Home, a printable resource with Scripture, prayer, and instructions for creating and using an Advent wreath. Celebrate the growing hope, peace, joy, and love that draw us closer to Jesus and inspire us to share God’s inclusive love with everyone.
Advent at Home was created by Rev. Jennifer McNally and Rev. Anna V. Ostenso Moore.