Top 5 Christmas Books to Read to Your Preschooler

Christmas is a season filled with warmth, lights, music, and magical moments. One of the simplest and most meaningful ways to celebrate this special time with your preschooler is through stories. Reading Christmas books together creates a quiet pocket of connection, imagination, and comfort during an otherwise busy season. 

For young children, stories are more than entertainment. They help build language, emotional awareness, and a sense of wonder. Christmas-themed books add an extra sprinkle of magic: snowflakes, Santa, kindness, and cozy homes become part of your family’s holiday memories. 

Here’s a delightful list of Christmas books that are perfect for preschoolers and toddlers, making story time a holiday tradition your young one will look forward to every year. 

1. The Night Before Christmas 

This timeless classic has enchanted families for generations. Its gentle rhymes and festive rhythm bring Christmas Eve to life in the most magical way. As you read aloud, your child begins to imagine Santa travelling through the night, reindeer on rooftops, and stockings waiting to be filled. 

It’s a perfect bedtime read and helps children settle into the magic of Christmas while feeling safe and loved. 

2. The Polar Express – by Chris Van Allsburg 

This beautiful story takes young readers on a magical train journey straight to the North Pole. It’s filled with wonder, excitement, and the idea that believing is part of the joy of Christmas. 

The rich, detailed artwork invites toddlers to explore each page, and the story sparks imagination while reminding children that the season is about wonder, not just gifts. 

3. Red and Lulu 

This heart-warming tale follows two small birds on their Christmas adventure among the lights, trees, and busy winter world. It introduces children to themes of friendship, hope, and finding your way even when things feel unfamiliar.

It’s a calm and comforting read for quiet moments in the evening and encourages gentle conversations about emotions and relationships with your young one.

4. Bear Stays Up for Christmas – by Karma Wilson 

Filled with cheer and warmth, this story follows Bear and his friends as they decorate, sing, and prepare for Christmas. It’s lively and joyful, making it great for toddlers who are feeling playful and curious.

The story beautifully introduces ideas like helping others, working together, and celebrating with those you care about. It’s a lovely way to talk about sharing, kindness, and teamwork.

5. The Snow Globe Family – by Jane O’Connor 

This imaginative book blends real life with make-believe. When a young character imagines a family living inside a snow globe, it opens the door to curiosity, creativity, and cozy winter fantasy.

Why Christmas Storytime Matters? 

The holiday season can be busy for families. Reading together becomes a gentle pause, a moment of calm in the middle of celebration. For young children, this time is deeply comforting.

Reading together: 

• Builds emotional bonding 

• Improves language and listening skills 

• Helps children understand feelings and relationships 

• Encourages imagination and creativity 

• Creates lasting family traditions 

When your child associates books with warmth and togetherness, a lifelong love for reading grows naturally.

A Christmas Note from Dibber International Preschool 

At Dibber, we believe learning should feel safe, joyful, and filled with wonder, just like a good story. Christmas books allow young ones to explore emotions, ideas, and imagination in the gentlest way. 

We encourage families to make reading part of daily routines, especially during holidays when children are seeking comfort, connection, and celebration. A story, a cuddle, and a quiet moment together can mean more than any present.