Re: Wat do you tell ur kiddies abt Christmas?
Christmas in our family is a holiday to indulge a bit in the "spirit of giving", to gather with family and good friends and this is the "meaning of Christmas" to us. It does not have to be a religious holiday and to some (like us), it isnt. The kids know about Jesus and that its his birthday but they will not be taught to worship him kwim? Its his birthday, he was a prophet and to celebrate his birthday, we give gifts and have holiday feasts. The kids also beleive in Santa, thats a fun thing that adds magic to their childhoods, something that I had growing up and want them to have also.
It doesnt have to be a big issue that in the west, Jesus is called "Son of God", even at a really young age, kids can understand that some people think that Jesus was a son of God but Muslims beleive that he was simply a prophet. Other than that, the nativity story is fine yeah? CE, when you were reading that story, you could have started a discussion maybe....after the story was over, tell the kids about how Christians beleive Jesus was the Son of God but that Muslims beleive that he is a Prophet and this is why the holidays are different in different religions. Kids really enjoy learning about different cultures and religions and different people and places, they think its fascinating.
Our school system does not have "Christmas" celebrations. They have "Holiday" celebrations. The parents go to see the concert and each grade sings songs about Christmas, Hanukah, Eid and Kwanzaa.
We have been working with the boys for their cub scout troop's holiday drive, we've been collecting gift items for those in need and its amazing how much they've accumulated. We so far have 3 big boxes filled to the top and will take them to the community center, help package them up and get them sent out. This is doing so much to teach the boys about the spirit of giving.
I dont see that putting up a christmas tree or indulging in "Santa" is haraam....it doesnt mean that you accept Jesus as the son of God yeah? And wishing others well on their holiday is a kind thing to do and these well-wishes may then be returned to you on your holiday.
So HO-HO-HO and merry christmas to all!