This Christmas, start some new traditions, put aside the stress and remember the One who was born to die. Here are our favorite Christ-centered Christmas resources.

Even when we try to keep Christ the center of our Christmas it is hard when the world around us is filled with Santa, reindeer and the latest once-in-life-time sales. Santa can be fun and sales may be worth it but even with the best intentions Jesus often gets pushed to the side during this busy time of year. Below you'll find resources to help your family stay focused on what really matters this holiday season.

Advent Activities

It's important to not just go through the motions of Christmas like putting up the tree, hanging wreaths and making gingerbread men.  All of these activities are not only fun but and educational, but they can lay the foundation for a Christ-centered Christmas celebration.

Reasons for the Season is a 24-Day countdown that leads you through the reasons we do what we do for Christmas from a Christian perspective.  This is perfect for Pre-k through age 10.

Truth in Tinsel is another awesome 24-day activity that will help get God's word into your children's hearts.  There are daily craft ornaments, printable and scriptures to make the season all the more meaningful to your family.  If you're like me and not overly crafty, you can also buy the printable ornaments. We used this for several years. It's perfect for ages 3 through 5.

Advent Countdown to Christmas Paper Chain Craft – Leading your children to Christmas with the Bible, art, and anticipation.

Unwrapping the Names of Jesus: An Advent Devotional – In Unwrapping the Names of Jesus, Asheritah Ciuciu leads readers through the four weeks of Advent (Hope, Preparation, Joy, and Love)

Christmas Books

One of our family traditions is to keep Christmas books stored with our Christmas decor and borrow extras from the library. This keeps the books exciting and “new” since we don't read them all year long. I incorporate them in Wyatt's reading box during the Christmas season. If you're looking for some top-notch books for a Christ-centered Christmas here's a list sure to please the entire family:

The Berenstain Bears and the Joy of Giving (Berenstain Bears/Living Lights)

God Gave Us Christmas 

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Classic Seuss)

Who is Coming to Our House?

Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect

The Sweet Smell of Christmas (Scented Storybook)

A Christmas Carol

A Biltmore Christmas (Romancing America)

Advent Conspiracy Study Pack: Can Christmas Still Change the World?

Welcome Baby Jesus: Advent and Christmas Reflections for Families

Christmas Is Finally Here (Veggietales)

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

Jesus: The Ultimate Gift: Especially From God to You

Toys and More

Nativity Play Set for Children – We got this for our son when he was three. Now, at nine he still enjoys playing with it between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Like our books, we keep the nativity set tucked in with the Christmas decor.

Melk the Christmas Monkey – Forget the elf, get a monkey instead. This is an excellent tool for teaching God's character to children and a wonderful Elf on a Shelf alternative.

Christmas Activity Planning Sheet – This will help you plan out your December and not go crazy. 🙂

Top 10 Christmas Gifts That Teach Bible Truth – If you're buying gifts, consider some of these.

First Christmas Nature Study – Experience Christmas like never before by exploring the flora and fauna of the Holy Land

BONUS Resources!

Here are some reader picks submitted by a few of my Facebook fans.

Joanna B. likes Jesus, Me, and My Christmas Tree

Vicki Z. said Santa's Favorite Story: Santa Tells the Story of the First Christmas

Ashley P said that while it doesn't start out very Christ-centered The Best Christmas Pageant Ever will leave you misty-eyed.

What are your favorite Christ-centered Christmas resources?