As the holiday season approaches, one of the most heart‑warming traditions you can start with your kids is a Christmas book countdown. Imagine wrapping 12 holiday books (or selecting them ahead) and opening one each night, snuggling under blankets, sipping cocoa, and reading together under tree lights.
This tradition doesn’t just create anticipation, it builds connection, promotes reading, and gives your family rituals to look forward to every winter. Below, you’ll find a full guide to setting it up and an idea of twelve beloved holiday stories that work perfectly.
How to Set Up Your Christmas Book Countdown
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Gather or purchase 12 holiday‑themed books: Choose a mix of classics, new releases, and maybe one special new title. For example, children’s holiday books are widely available and featured in seasonal lists.
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Wrap each book (optional): Use plain wrapping paper, brown butcher‑paper, or reusable fabric. Label with numbers 1‑12.
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Choose a start date: Many families begin the night after Thanksgiving or on December 13 so the countdown ends on Christmas Eve.
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Create a cozy reading spot: Blankets, pillows, twinkle lights, a mug of cocoa. Make it something the kids look forward to.
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Add some time to connect after: After reading, ask each child one question: What was your favorite part? What would you ask the character?
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Display your progress: Use a chalkboard or small calendar to mark each book as it’s read. The visual tracker builds excitement.
12 Bedtime Christmas Books Your Kids Will Love
1. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
- Ages 4–8
- A magical train ride to the North Pole reminds us to believe in the magic of Christmas.
2. Wombat Divine by Mem Fox
- Ages 3–7
- A sweet and funny story about a wombat’s role in the Christmas play—and a reminder that there's a place for everyone.
3. ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore
- Ages 3–7
- No list would be complete without this classic rhyme, a must for Christmas Eve reading.
4. The Littlest Angel by Charles Tazewell
- Ages 5–9
- A timeless tale about selflessness and giving from the heart.
5. Pick a Pine Tree by Patricia Toht
- Ages 4–8
- From picking the perfect tree to decorating it with family—this poetic book captures the full spirit of tradition.
6. Room for a Little One: A Christmas Tale by Martin Waddell
- Ages 3–6
- A beautifully illustrated story that retells the nativity with gentle, warmhearted themes.
7. A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles M. Schulz
- Ages 5–10
- A heartfelt holiday message paired with familiar Peanuts humor—this book version of the classic TV special is always a win.
8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
- Ages 4–8
- From grumpy to generous, the Grinch’s heartwarming journey makes this a holiday must-read.
9. The Story of Holly and Ivy by Rumer Godden
- Ages 6–10
- A beautiful and touching tale of wishes, belonging, and unexpected joy.
10. The Christmas Pine by Julia Donaldson
- Ages 4–7
- A poetic book about trees, tradition, and community—great for quieter evenings.
11. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
- Ages 3–6
- Not strictly a Christmas book, but this Caldecott classic brings winter magic alive for little readers.
12. An Orange for Frankie by Patricia Polacco
- Ages 6–9
- A heartwarming story of family, generosity, and the simple joys of the season.
The Christmas book countdown is more than a nightly read, it’s a tradition that adds warmth, connection, and meaning to your holiday season. Whether your kids are toddlers or tweens, this experience creates shared memories that stick. Start your countdown today and let the magic unfold one story at a time!