Inclusion at Christmas

Christmas is often a time when childcare practitioners are unsure what to do. 

 

Common questions include:

• Are we allowed to have a nativity play?
•  Do I have to ask permission from parents?
• How can I celebrate Christmas in my setting without excluding children from other religions? 

By following these tips you will ensure that Christmas is a fun and inclusive time for all:

 

·         Consider how you acknowledge other religions in your setting. View religious festivals and traditions as a way to educate children about the wider world and different cultures. There should be an even balance throughout the year. 

 

·         Ask yourself whether you need to include the religious aspect of Christmas or is there any other activities that can be carried out. Look at our Christmas Crafts page, many are traditional aspects of Christmas rather than due to a religious belief.

 

·         If you are carrying out Christmas celebrations ask permission from every child’s parent, not just the ones that you presume wouldn’t celebrate Christmas.

 

·         Ask parents from other religions questions about whether they acknowledge Christmas in their household and whether you could incorporate these ideas into your festivities.

 

·         If a parent refuses to let their child take part in Christmas activities consider whether it is important to continue with the celebrations which may not include all children.

 

·         Consider making craft activities non-specific e.g. not making Christmas cards but sending cards to someone special