Each December, as the first snow (or soft rain) begins to fall, our family turns to the gentle rhythms of a simpler season. We light candles at dinner, read by the glow of the Christmas tree, and fill our home with the scents of molasses cookies and evergreen.
This year, we’re inviting you to take a cue from Little House on the Prairie and create a Christmas that feels slow, handmade, and full of gratitude.
The Beauty of a Simpler Christmas
When we read about Laura and Mary waking on Christmas morning — the excitement over a peppermint stick, a small rag doll, or a shiny tin cup — we’re reminded that joy doesn’t come from abundance, but from appreciation.
A Little House on the Prairie Christmas invites us to return to those roots:
- to sing carols together by candlelight,
- to bake simple treats from scratch,
- to give handmade gifts with love,
- and to gather close and give thanks for the blessings we already have.
It’s a celebration of connection, of family, faith, and the quiet beauty of an ordinary day shared together.
Christmas Guide Volume 2
Bringing the Prairie Spirit to Your Home
You don’t need a homestead or prairie snow to bring that cozy simplicity to your own Christmas.
Here are a few ideas inspired by Laura’s little house:
- Bake molasses cookies or cornbread together and enjoy them warm by the fire.
- Create handmade ornaments from pinecones, ribbon, or dried oranges.
- Read aloud from The Little House Christmas Treasury or Little House in the Big Woods.
- Fill stockings with simple gifts — an orange, a peppermint stick, a handwritten note.
- Sing a hymn as a family before bed: “Silent Night” or “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.”
These small, intentional acts invite peace and wonder back into our holiday rhythm.
Explore Christmas Around the World
As we celebrate Christmas on the prairie, it’s beautiful to also remember that families around the world have their own rich traditions. From songs sung in candlelit cathedrals in Europe to the quiet awe of a nature-filled Advent walk, every culture reflects a glimpse of the beauty of Christmas.
That’s why we created Christmas Guide Volume 2, a four-week guide that helps your family explore the heart of Christmas through story, creativity, and connection.
Each week features beautiful picture books, crafts, recipes, and gentle learning activities:
🌾 Prairie Christmas — Inspired by Little House on the Prairie and simple frontier traditions.
🌲 Nature Christmas — Celebrating the beauty of God’s creation in winter.
🎄 European Christmas — Exploring festive traditions and classic carols from across Europe.
🏺 Ancient History Christmas — Discovering the roots of the Christmas story and early celebrations of Christ’s birth.
It’s a meaningful, joy-filled way to weave together literature, hands-on learning, and heart connection throughout the season.
A Season to Savor
This year, instead of rushing through the calendar, let’s slow down and create space for wonder. Let’s tell stories, sing songs, bake together, and fill our homes with warmth that lasts long after the decorations are put away.
Because when we choose simplicity and connection, Christmas becomes more than a holiday — it becomes a homecoming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages is the Christmas Guide Volume 2 designed for?
The guide is created for children ages 3–12, making it a perfect fit for preschool and elementary years. With adaptable lesson plans and a mix of reading, crafts, and simple activities, it’s easy to tailor for younger or older learners.
What kinds of activities are included?
Each week includes:
- Hands-on crafts like clay ornaments, paper bag stars, and gingerbread houses.
- Simple recipes such as apple pie, butterscotch bars, and homemade cocoa mix.
- Phonics and counting games to keep learning fun and festive.
- Seasonal art and nature projects to connect children to the wonder of creation.
- Family connection prompts that invite you to slow down and savor the season together.