The holiday season is a magical time, filled with sparkling lights, festive music, and, of course, the joy of sharing stories. There’s something truly special about snuggling up with your little ones and diving into a heartwarming tale. Reading aloud isn’t just about fun; it’s a cherished tradition that builds literacy, strengthens family bonds, and creates memories that last a lifetime.
To help you find those perfect literary companions for your festive gatherings, we’ve rounded up some of the best Christmas read alouds for kids. Whether you’re looking for laugh-out-loud humor, a touching classic, or a story that inspires, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to sprinkle some extra cheer into your home with these wonderful holiday stories!
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
This absolute classic takes a hilarious and surprisingly heartwarming look at the true meaning of Christmas. When the notoriously mischievous Herdman kids decide to take over the annual church Christmas pageant, everyone expects a disaster. What unfolds instead is an unforgettable, riotous, and ultimately poignant reinterpretation of the Nativity story that forces the entire town to see Christmas through fresh eyes. It’s a story that’ll have your family chuckling one moment and contemplating the spirit of the season the next.
- Features: Hilarious and touching narrative, strong moral message, classic Christmas tale, relatable characters, suitable for middle-grade readers but enjoyable for all ages.
- Pros:
- Incredibly funny and engaging.
- Offers a unique perspective on the Christmas story.
- Promotes discussion about empathy and the true meaning of giving.
- An enduring favorite for family reading.
- Cons:
- The Herdman kids’ antics might require some gentle explanation for very young children.
- User Impressions: Families adore this book for its humor and unexpected depth, often making it an annual read-aloud tradition. Many say it perfectly captures the messy, beautiful reality of Christmas.
See it on Amazon here
How to Catch an Elf
If your kids dream of meeting Santa’s magical helpers, “How to Catch an Elf” is the perfect festive read! This rhyming adventure takes young readers on a playful journey as they design elaborate traps to catch one of Santa’s elusive elves. With vibrant illustrations and a lighthearted tone, it’s a fantastic way to spark imagination and build excitement for the big day. It’s definitely one of the best Christmas read alouds for kids who love a bit of playful mischief!
- Features: Rhyming text, colorful and engaging illustrations, interactive concept of building traps, encourages creativity and imagination, modern holiday favorite.
- Pros:
- Highly engaging and interactive for young children.
- Fun and fast-paced, keeping attention easily.
- Promotes imaginative play and problem-solving.
- Great for repeated readings to build anticipation for Christmas.
- Cons:
- The plot is quite simple, so older children might find it less challenging.
- User Impressions: Kids absolutely love the silliness and the clever elf traps, while parents appreciate the catchy rhythm and the joy it brings to story time.
See it on Amazon here
Freddie The Farting Snowman: A Funny Read Aloud Picture…
Ready for some serious giggles? “Freddie The Farting Snowman” is exactly what it sounds like – a hilariously silly story guaranteed to make kids (and adults!) burst into laughter. Freddie isn’t your average snowman; he has a little problem that leads to all sorts of comical situations. If your family enjoys a bit of toilet humor and lighthearted fun, this book is a refreshing and funny break from traditional holiday narratives. It’s an excellent choice for a unique and memorable Christmas read-aloud.
- Features: Humorous and whimsical plot, simple language, bright and engaging illustrations, short and sweet story.
- Pros:
- Guarantees loud laughs and giggles from kids.
- A fun, lighthearted change from more serious holiday tales.
- Easy to read aloud, perfect for reluctant readers.
- Great for kids who appreciate silly humor.
- Cons:
- The humor might not appeal to all adults or those preferring more traditional stories.
- Lacks a deep moral lesson.
- User Impressions: Children find Freddie’s antics absolutely hysterical, often requesting it again and again. Parents praise it for its ability to bring pure joy and laughter.
See it on Amazon here
Little Red Sleigh: A Heartwarming Christmas Book For…
This beautiful story introduces us to a brave little red sleigh with a big dream: to be Santa’s sleigh. Despite being small and seemingly ordinary, the Little Red Sleigh holds onto its dream with determination. This heartwarming tale teaches children about perseverance, self-belief, and the idea that even the smallest among us can achieve great things if they truly believe in themselves. It’s a beautifully illustrated book that gently inspires and reminds us all about the power of hope during the holiday season.
- Features: Inspiring and heartwarming narrative, gorgeous illustrations, strong message of perseverance and self-belief, gentle and uplifting tone.
- Pros:
- Teaches valuable lessons about determination and chasing dreams.
- Visually stunning artwork that captivates young readers.
- Offers a touching story that encourages discussion.
- A lovely, comforting read for quiet moments.
- Cons:
- The pacing might feel a little slow for very energetic children.
- User Impressions: Parents frequently praise the positive message and beautiful artistry, noting how much their children connect with the little sleigh’s journey.
See it on Amazon here
A Christmas Carol (Holiday Classics Illustrated by P.j….)
No list of the best Christmas read alouds for kids would be complete without Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” This illustrated edition makes the timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation accessible to younger audiences, without losing the magic and profound message of the original. It’s a wonderful way to introduce children to a literary classic, teaching them about compassion, generosity, and the spirit of redemption. The detailed illustrations bring Victorian London and the ghostly visitors to life in a way that truly engages young imaginations.
- Features: Classic narrative simplified for children, beautiful and atmospheric illustrations, timeless moral lessons, introduces literary heritage.
- Pros:
- A foundational Christmas story teaching essential values.
- Illustrations help visualize the story, making it engaging for kids.
- Great for family discussions about kindness and consequences.
- An excellent introduction to classic literature.
- Cons:
- Some themes (ghosts, Scrooge’s meanness) might be a bit intense for very sensitive young children.
- Can still be a longer read compared to typical picture books.
- User Impressions: Highly valued for making a complex classic digestible and visually appealing for kids, with many appreciating the detailed artwork that complements Dickens’ tale.
See it on Amazon here
The Best Halloween Ever (The Best Ever)
While not a Christmas story, “The Best Halloween Ever” often makes its way into families’ holiday season reading lists due to its heartwarming portrayal of community, family, and the joyous chaos of celebrations. From the beloved “Best Ever” series by Barbara Robinson (who also penned “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”), this book captures the same charming, humorous, and relatable storytelling. It’s a fantastic read-aloud choice for anytime your family wants a dose of laughter and a celebration of togetherness, making it a great pre-Christmas read or simply a high-quality read-aloud for the broader holiday season.
- Features: Humorous and engaging plot, strong focus on family and community, relatable character dynamics, part of a popular series by a cherished author.
- Pros:
- Incredibly funny and entertaining for all ages.
- Promotes discussions about friendship and celebrating traditions.
- Captures the spirit of community and shared experiences.
- Excellent storytelling that keeps kids hooked.
- Cons:
- Important Note: This book is Halloween-themed, not Christmas. While it shares the same high-quality read-aloud attributes and author as a Christmas classic, be aware of its specific holiday focus.
- User Impressions: Readers love the playful mischief and realistic family interactions, finding it a delightful read that evokes nostalgia and brings smiles.
See it on Amazon here
Bear Stays Up for Christmas (The Bear Books)
Join Bear and his friends in this cozy and comforting tale as Bear tries his very best to stay awake for Christmas! Usually, Bear hibernates through winter, but this year, he’s determined not to miss the festive fun. His friends help him with the Christmas preparations, creating a heartwarming story about friendship, generosity, and the joy of being together during the holidays. It’s a gentle and sweet read, perfect for snuggling up on a cold winter’s night and one of the most beloved Christmas read-alouds for kids.
- Features: Rhyming text, endearing and familiar characters, festive Christmas theme, gentle and calming narrative, part of a highly popular series.
- Pros:
- Sweet and calming, making it an ideal bedtime story.
- Celebrates friendship, teamwork, and the spirit of giving.
- Beautiful, soft illustrations that are appealing to young children.
- A perennial favorite known for its comforting tone.
- Cons:
- The plot is quite simple and might be too gentle for kids who prefer more action-packed stories.
- User Impressions: Families adore this book for its cozy atmosphere and lovable characters. Many consider it a must-have for their holiday collection, perfect for winding down before Christmas.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Making the Most of Christmas Read Alouds
Q1: What makes a good Christmas read-aloud for kids?
A good Christmas read-aloud usually features themes like generosity, kindness, friendship, family, hope, and the magic of the season. Engaging stories, appealing illustrations, and a tone that captures the festive spirit are key. Humor and heartwarming moments are always a bonus!
Q2: At what age can my child start enjoying Christmas read-alouds?
Children can enjoy read-alouds from infancy! Board books with simple illustrations are great for babies, while toddlers and preschoolers love picture books with bright colors and repetitive text. Older children can enjoy more complex picture books and even chapter books like abridged classics.
Q3: How can I make read-aloud time more special during Christmas?
Create a cozy atmosphere! Dim the lights, put on some soft Christmas music, grab a warm blanket, and maybe a cup of hot cocoa. You can also make it a tradition to read one specific Christmas book on Christmas Eve or throughout Advent.
Q4: Are there any benefits to reading Christmas stories aloud?
Absolutely! Reading aloud boosts literacy skills, expands vocabulary, improves comprehension, and sparks imagination. Beyond academics, it creates wonderful bonding moments, reduces stress, and instills a love for reading and family traditions.
Q5: Should I choose picture books or chapter books for Christmas read-alouds?
It depends on your child’s age and attention span. Picture books are perfect for younger children and quick, engaging reads for all ages. Chapter books are great for older kids or for creating a longer, ongoing story time tradition over several nights leading up to Christmas. Many families enjoy a mix of both!
Q6: How often should we read Christmas stories during the holiday season?
As often as you and your children enjoy it! Some families read one story every night in December, while others pick a few favorites for weekly or special occasion reads. There’s no right or wrong answer; the key is to make it a joyful experience.
Q7: Can classic Christmas stories be too scary for young children?
Some classic tales, like parts of A Christmas Carol, can have darker or more intense themes (e.g., ghosts, poverty). For very young or sensitive children, look for simplified or abridged versions specifically designed for kids, or choose lighter, more humorous options. You know your child best, so trust your judgment!