As a Godmother, I know that children soak up information when they are very young. With the world around us today, it is important for us to expose children to God and to immerse them in the life of the Church. Even while they are infants, the Church offers the Eucharist to our children. Children emulate the behaviors and actions of others in the Church. For example, my nephew (just 16 months old) started censing around the house with one of his toys (so cute!). Encouraging children to read books about our faith helps to affirm what they experience and see.
Several Orthodox publishing companies started to sell more children books, including board books for toddlers! We purchased several for my nephew – and he loves them. I highly recommend them for any child you know.
The Nativity is coming quickly and our children will soon experience the joy and wonder of our Savior’s Birth. With that in mind, here are a few children’s books that are available for the Nativity Season.
Recommended Orthodox Children’s Books for the Nativity
The Birth of Christ (from the Learn Icons Series): Which angel visited the Mother of God? Which animals kept the little baby Jesus warm? What do the gifts that the Wise Men brought symbolize? Children learn about the birth of Christ through the world of Byzantine art. An art that is close to children’s souls, for it does not use shadow, perspective, divisions or time. Art by Dionysiou Monastery. Authored by Marina Paliaki and Elpida Paliaki; Age Range: 5-8; Board Book
Prepare O Bethlehem – The Feast of the Nativity: The Orthodox Church’s hymns of the prefeast and feast of the Nativity of our Lord celebrate and proclaim in word and song the celestial joy of the incarnation. These beloved texts, so wonderfully illustrated by Niko Chocheli, are filled with beauty and power. They tell in a touching way of the all-embracing participation of creatures in the Creator’s coming. Ages 4 and up
Authored and Illustrated by Niko Chocheli
Christmas Coloring Icons [English / Greek]: The Nativity of Christ told through church art that children can color. Includes a fold-out poster and 16 stickers to guide them in color choices.
Authored and Illustrated by Egle-Ekaterine Potamitis
The Nativity of Our Lord (from the Twelve Great Feasts for Children Series): The Nativity of Christ told through church art that children can color. Includes a fold-out poster and 16 stickers to guide them in color choices.
Authored by Sister Elayne with Illustrations by Bessie Gillis
Check out our Resources page for more book recommendations and other helpful links.
