Bernadette - The Real Meaning of Christmas

by Bernadette Dean
(Franklin, Tasmania, Australia)

This year, my prep/one class are currently learning about reducing, reusing and recycling. I have expanded this theme to fit with the idea of Christmas being about giving and sharing and also that the best gifts are ones made or given with love.

So this year, our usual Kris Kringle takes on a new meaning. I have asked children to bring toys/games or items (reuse and recycle) that they don't mind giving away to another child. I will then look at the items - improve their presentation and then on our special Christmas giving day hand out a present for each child.

Our Christmas play is also based around the idea of Christmas being lost and a child who with his family have got all the commercial items like tree etc. ready for Christmas. (Of course, they have Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus and the three wise men)

Finally after meeting, a passer-by, they are shown that the real meaning of Christmas is all around them - love, family and the school community. Lots of fun and a great way to share the true meaning and spirit of Christmas.