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Teaching Kids the Meaning of the Holidays
The holiday season is full of rich tradition. It can be a nice family activity to talk about why people all over the world celebrate the religious and cultural holidays that take place in December.  Christmas
Every December 25th, Christians celebrate to commemorate the birth of Jesus. Modern customs of Christmas include family gatherings, gift-giving, decorating with Christmas trees and lights, singing Christmas carols, enjoying special treats, and Christmas dinner.
Rooted in history, these customs are symbolic. For example, it is believed the tradition of putting candles (now electric lights) on a fir tree began with Martin Luther in the 16th century. He was duplicating the beauty and serenity of the dark winter sky with stars twinkling through the silhouette of fir boughs.
The secular Christmas tradition of Santa Claus and his sleigh full of toys is believed to have its roots in the life of Saint Nicholas of Myra who lived from 270 to 346 B.C. and was known for giving many gifts. Tradition has it that those who were in need would leave their shoes out and Saint Nicholas put coins in them.  Hanukkah
Celebrated for eight days between late November and the end of December each year, Hanukkah is a Jewish celebration commemorating the victory of the Israelites over the Syrian army in 165 B.C.E. and the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem when the menorah had only enough oil to burn one day, but burned for eight.
Many Hanukkah traditions are rooted in history and include family togetherness, lighting one candle each night in a menorah, preparing special meals and treats, singing Hanukkah songs, and playing the dreidel game with children.  Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa begins on December 26 and ends on January 1 each year and is a celebration of African culture, heritage, and values. The word Kwanzaa means “the first fruits of the harvest.”
Each of the seven days commemorate the principles of Kwanzaa which include unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
Kwanzaa customs include decorating with African art and fabric incorporating black, red, and green colors, listening to African music, lighting seven candles over seven days in a kinara (candle holder), a feast (Karamu), and gift-giving.
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