Aim

To begin to be aware of the dual nature of Christmas.

Lesson

Begin by informing the children that this half-term they are going to be studying Christmas. Invite them to brainstorm the word 'Christmas'.

Following discussion, draw their attention to the fact that there are two sides to Christmas. It is both a special time for Christians and a public holiday. Over the hundreds of years in which Christmas has been celebrated, these two sides have been mixed together. But many Christians believe that nowadays the true meaning of Christmas has been forgotten.

Share the poster with the children. Discuss with them the intention of the person who designed it.

Activity

Following discussion, groups of children could:

• write a piece entitled 'What Christmas means to me'
• interview a Christian visitor about Christmas
• find out about the origins of Christmas tradition - the tree, Father Christmas, etc.
• sort Christmas cards into two piles, which reflect the dual aspects of Christmas.