As winter blankets the world in a glistening white, communities around the globe come together to celebrate the season in their own unique ways. From the twinkling lights of Diwali in India to the cozy gatherings of Hanukkah in Israel, the winter season is a tapestry woven with a rich diversity of cultural celebrations. In this blog post, we delve into the enchanting tapestry of winter festivities celebrated worldwide, exploring their customs, stories, and traditions. Beyond the glittering ornaments and festive treats, these celebrations offer a window into the heart of each culture, fostering a deeper understanding of our global community.
Incorporating discussions about winter celebrations from different parts of the world into the classroom is more than just an exercise in cultural awareness; it is an invaluable educational opportunity. It provides students with a front-row seat to the vibrant tapestry of human traditions and beliefs that shape our world. Understanding and appreciating these celebrations cultivates empathy, tolerance, and a sense of global citizenship. It allows students to connect with their peers from different backgrounds, fostering a climate of inclusivity and respect within the classroom. Moreover, exploring diverse winter celebrations provides a gateway for children to develop critical thinking skills, encouraging them to compare and contrast different customs and consider the universal values that underpin these festivities. Through these discussions, we equip our students with the tools to navigate an increasingly interconnected world, promoting a spirit of unity and harmony that transcends borders. Join us on this captivating journey as we unwrap the beauty and significance of winter celebrations across continents.
Here is a list of books for kids that teach about cultural diversity and traditions associated with winter holidays, as well as some classics!
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Devi loves the Diwali season. It’s a time to wear her favorite red bindi and eat samosas until she bursts! Make mithai and design rangoli with her papa. And paint diyas with her nani—a reminder to shine her light brightly all year long.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: My Diwali Light
A sweet tale follows Yasmeen, a seven-year-old Pakistani-American girl, as she celebrates the Muslim holidays of Ramadan, "The Night of the Moon" (Chaand Raat), and Eid. With lush illustrations that evoke Islamic art, this beautiful story offers a peek into modern Muslim culture—and into the ancient roots of its most cherished traditions.
Read aloud on YouTube: Night of the Moon
Buy a copy here: Night of the Moon
Generations of readers have treasured this 1960 Caldecott Medal winner and its tale of a little Mexican girl's excitement at the approach of Christmas. Ceci eagerly awaits Las Posadas, the traditional nine-day series of yuletide celebrations.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Nine Days to Christmas
"The Polar Express" by Chris Van Allsburg - Follow a young boy's magical journey on a train to the North Pole, where he learns the true spirit of Christmas in this beautifully illustrated classic.
Read aloud on YouTube: The Polar Express
Buy a copy here: The Polar Express
"How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" by Dr. Seuss - Join the Grinch in his mischievous plot to steal Christmas, only to discover the warmth and joy of the holiday season, conveying a heartwarming lesson about the true meaning of Christmas.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
On the night before Eid, it’s finally time to make special sweet treats: Teita’s famous ka’ak. Zain eagerly unpacks the ingredients from his grandmother’s bulky suitcase: ghee from Khalo Karim, dates from Amo Girgis, and honey from Tant Tayseer—precious flavors all the way from Egypt.
Read aloud on YouTube: The Night Before Eid
Buy a copy here: The Night Before Eid
"The Snowy Day" by Ezra Jack Keats - Experience the enchantment of a snowy day through the eyes of a young boy, celebrating the simple joys and wonders of winter.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: The Snowy Day
"The Night Before Christmas" by Clement C. Moore - Delight in the timeless poem that captures the anticipation and magic of Christmas Eve, setting the stage for the arrival of Santa Claus.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: The Night Before Christmas
"Dasher: How a Brave Little Doe Changed Christmas Forever" by Matt Tavares - Discover the heartwarming story of Dasher, the reindeer who changed Christmas history, emphasizing courage, determination, and the power of dreams.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Dasher
- This witty book explores the plight of a latke during the holiday season, shedding light on the importance of understanding different traditions and embracing diversity.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: The Latke Who Couldn't Stop Screaming
"Seven Spools of Thread: A Kwanzaa Story" by Angela Shelf Medearis - Learn about the principles of Kwanzaa through the story of seven quarreling brothers who learn the value of unity, highlighting the importance of family and community.
Read aloud on YouTube: Seven Spools of thread
Buy a copy here: Seven Spools of Thread
. "The Christmas Menorahs: How a Town Fought Hate" by Janice Cohn - This inspiring book tells the true story of a community coming together to combat prejudice during Hanukkah, illustrating the power of unity and standing up against discrimination.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: The Christmas Menorahs
"The Mitten" by Jan Brett - Join a young boy as he loses his mitten, which becomes a cozy home for a series of forest animals seeking shelter from the cold, teaching the importance of kindness and sharing.
Read aloud on YouTube: The Mitten
Buy a copy here: The Mitten
"The Legend of the Poinsettia" by Tomie dePaola - Immerse yourself in Mexican tradition as a young girl learns the meaning behind the poinsettia flower, emphasizing the spirit of giving and the beauty of selflessness.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: The Legend of the Poinsettia
"Holidays Around the World: Celebrate Diwali: With Sweets, Lights, and Fireworks" by Deborah Heiligman - This informative book introduces young readers to the Festival of Lights, Diwali, and its cultural significance.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Celebrate Diwali
"The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice" by Wendy Pfeffer - Explore the science behind the winter solstice and how it's celebrated across various cultures, promoting scientific curiosity and cultural awareness.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: The Shortest Day
"Lucia Morning in Sweden" by Ewa Rydaker - Experience a Swedish tradition as Lucia, a girl dressed in white, brings light and hope on the darkest day of the year, emphasizing the themes of hope and light.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Lucia Moring in Sweden
"My Two Holidays: A Hanukkah and Christmas Story" by Danielle Novack - Join a young girl as she navigates celebrating both Hanukkah and Christmas in her blended family, highlighting the beauty of embracing multiple traditions.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: My Two Holidays
In this humorous tale, Maria accidentally loses her mother's wedding ring in a batch of tamales, leading to a hilarious and heartwarming adventure.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Too Many Tamales
This book beautifully illustrates how two families, one Jewish and one Christian, come together to celebrate their respective holidays, promoting understanding and unity.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Light the Lights
Learn about the significance of Ramadan and the festive celebrations of Eid al-Fitr in this informative and culturally enriching book.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Celebrate Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr
Discover the ancient celebrations and traditions surrounding the winter solstice from various cultures around the world, fostering an appreciation for diverse cultural practices.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: The Winter Solstice
This informative book explains the history and significance of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, providing a valuable educational resource for understanding Jewish traditions.
Read aloud on YouTube: The Story of Hanukkah
Buy a copy here: The Story of Hanukkah
This informative book explains the history and significance of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, providing a valuable educational resource for understanding Jewish traditions.
Read aloud on YouTube: Coming Soon
Buy a copy here: Our Eights Nights of Hanukkah
These books provide a wonderful opportunity to teach children about the cultural diversity and traditions associated with winter holidays around the world, promoting understanding, tolerance, and appreciation for different celebrations.