Discover the joy of reading with Book Clubs and Book Fairs

Scholastic Parents Staff • December 9, 2022 TopicsBook Clubs Book Fairs books December holidays parents

4 Holiday Reading Traditions

Try these fun ways to incorporate literacy into the magic and anticipation of the holidays with your child.

Originally published by Scholastic Parents on November 22, 2022
Versioned for Scholastic Canada

The holiday season is one of the best times of the year! From finding the perfect gifts for everyone on your list to reading new and classic seasonal stories, there are so many wonderful activities, events, and traditions for families during this time. Here are a few fun ideas that incorporate literacy into the magic and anticipation of the holidays.

1. Create a Book Advent Calendar

An advent calendar is one of the most popular ways to count down the days until Christmas, but this idea is perfect for any festive celebration your readers are eagerly anticipating! This year, instead of opening chocolates each day, switch them out with books! There is nothing better than curling up with a book and creating holiday reading traditions that your family will continue to enjoy and anticipate for years to come.

To create the calendar, choose a collection of classic picture books, 24 holiday-themed stories, or any mix of titles your child will enjoy. You can wrap up seasonal favourites that you already have, or even add a few new books that would be of high interest to your child. Once you have all 24 books, wrap them up. Then, each night in December, have your child choose one book to open and read it together as a family.

Celebrating Hanukkah? Gift a book for each of the eight nights.

2. Teach Your Child About the Holidays

During this time of the year, there is so much to learn about different holidays that other kids and families celebrate around the world. To get started, select a winter holiday that your family doesn’t normally celebrate, or choose to learn about how the holiday your family observes is celebrated in another country.

Check out a variety of nonfiction and fiction titles, prepare traditional food, or make crafts that reflect the symbols and activities associated with the holiday. Holiday-themed picture books serve as a great introduction to the holiday season and share fun ways that families celebrate during this time of the year.

You can also play games and listen to music to get your child involved in the research and learning process. Not only do these activities encourage literacy, but they also show your child that learning about something new can be fun and exciting.

3. Remember Books Make the Perfect Gifts

Many families have gift-giving traditions. This year, make an effort to incorporate the giving of books into your holiday tradition — doing so will help your child view reading and receiving books as precious gifts — and foster a love of reading! Try introducing your child to a favourite book from your childhood. Other ideas include gifting books from your child’s favourite genre, author, or series featuring beloved characters, like The Bad Guys #1-#14 Collection! Set aside a special day during the season to select a new book to snuggle up as a family to enjoy.

4. Pair Books and Snacks

Take a moment to get cozy with favourite seasonal reads and treats! This year, get creative and make a holiday snack to fuel your family’s reading. For instance, bake gingerbread cookies and read 3 Little Superpigs & the Gingerbread Man, a modern twist to the classic The Gingerbread Man. The excitement of making a holiday treat to enjoy during storytime is a great way to bond as a family during this time of the year.

This holiday season, give your kids the gift of reading! Fill your holiday packages and homes with a wide selection of titles and raise a generation of children who are excited about reading.