Bring the Magic of Reading and Creativity to This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a wonderful time to slow down, gather with loved ones, and celebrate the joy of creating and stories. Whether it’s the warmth of Thanksgiving or the sparkle of December, reading and creating together can create memories that last a lifetime—and I’m excited to share some special resources to make this season extra magical!

Celebrate Gratitude with “A Thanksgiving Tale of the Five Kernels”

Thanksgiving is the perfect moment to explore stories of gratitude, resilience, and community. A Thanksgiving Tale of the Five Kernels tells the inspiring story of Squanto and the first Thanksgiving, giving children a way to connect with history while reflecting on kindness and thankfulness.

This resource includes meaningful reading and hands-on activities that encourage students and families to think critically, write creatively, and make personal connections to the story. From journaling prompts to simple discussion questions and a special treat, this tale brings the spirit of Thanksgiving to life in a way that’s engaging and easy to enjoy—whether in the classroom or around the kitchen table.

Countdown to Joy with the 12 Days of Jolabokaflod Book Celebration

As the holidays approach, the Icelandic tradition of Jolabokaflod, or “The Christmas Book Flood,” offers a cozy way to celebrate reading. Inspired by this tradition, my 12 Days of Jolabokaflod Book Countdown brings 12 special books, activities, and projects to your home or classroom, turning December into a joyful reading and creating celebration.

Each day features a new story, such as The Snowy Day, The Mitten, Snowflake Bentley, Owl Moon, The Nutcracker, The Gingerbread Baby, and The Polar Express, just to name a few. Along with these heartwarming tales, children can enjoy fun, hands-on seasonal activities:

Outdoor ice ornaments for snowy adventures
Grinchy green playdough for playful sensory fun
Owly snacks to enjoy while reading Owl Moon
Listening to The Nutcracker music while creating their own Nutcracker
Paper gingerbread houses to build a charming classroom or home, GingerVillage
Jolly letter writing to favorite characters, friends, or family

These simple, low-prep activities encourage creativity, connection, and a love of reading while creating magical moments that children will remember long after the holidays.

Bring Stories to Life in Your Home or Classroom

Reading together is more than just a fun activity—it’s a chance to share traditions, spark imaginations, and teach important lessons about the winter season, kindness, bravery, and curiosity. By combining engaging stories with interactive activities, your children or students can experience the holidays in a way that’s joyful, educational, and heartwarming.

Whether you’re sharing a tale of Thanksgiving, counting down to Christmas with Jolabokaflod, or simply curling up with a favorite winter story, these resources make it easy to turn reading into a treasured holiday tradition.

Here are some other holiday creative resources you might be interested in click photos or head to the shop here . This season, give the gift of stories, and watch the magic of reading light up your home or classroom! Merry Reading Christmas!