The Christmas season in our home is all about creating magical moments and lasting memories with our children. One of my favorite traditions revolves around our Elf on the Shelf friends, Joy and Jingles. Each year, they bring a special “Brrr Basket” of beautifully wrapped Christmas books straight from the North Pole. Every night before bed, our kids unwrap one book to enjoy together.
This cozy holiday tradition:
- Builds excitement for Christmas
- Gives little hands practice unwrapping gifts
- Encourages a love of reading through festive stories
If you’re looking to start your own Christmas book countdown, I’ve rounded up our favorite holiday picture books, winter bedtime stories, and classic Christmas tales that are perfect for kids of all ages.
Our Must-Have Christmas Books for Kids
1. All I Want for Christmas is Ewe by Rose Rossner
This sweet, rhyming story is packed with puns and celebrates the love between parent and child. The adorable illustrations make it a heartwarming read-aloud, perfect for snuggling up during the holidays.
2. Where’s Santa Claus? by Ingela P. Arrhenius
This interactive lift-the-flap book lets little ones hunt for Santa. Its sturdy design (with felt flaps!) and engaging illustrations make it ideal for toddlers eager to get involved in the story. There’s even a mirror at the end for kids to smile into!
3. Goodnight Santa by Michelle Robinson
A soothing, rhyming bedtime book that’s all about Santa’s preparations for Christmas. It’s great for winding down while still embracing the excitement of the holiday season.
4. Moo, Baa, Fa La La La La! by Sandra Boynton
Sandra Boynton’s whimsical humor shines in this festive board book featuring her beloved farm animals celebrating Christmas. Its silly tone makes it a hit for all ages and stages. Our son gets a kick out of hearing Dad’s hilarious sound effects!
5. Dream Snow by Eric Carle
I love everything Eric Carle! He brings his signature collage style to this story of a farmer dreaming of a snowy Christmas. The interactive elements and gentle narrative make it a magical winter read.
6. Llama Llama Jingle Bells by Anna Dewdney
Llama Llama is back for the holidays! This short, rhyming book captures all the joys of Christmas traditions, from baking cookies to jingling bells. What little kid doesn’t love Llama Llama?!
7. Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson
While not strictly a Christmas book, this winter-themed tale of friendship and sharing is perfect for the winter season. The rhythmic text and charming illustrations make it a favorite in our household.
8. Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner
Ever wonder what snowmen do after dark? This imaginative tale answers that question with whimsical illustrations and a clever story.
9. My First Christmas Touch and Feel by DK Publishing
Last Christmas, my son was 7ish months old and in his scritchy-scratch era. This sensory book was perfect for his tiny hands, with textures to explore and simple text introducing the magic of Christmas. This year, he still loves to touch and feel the pages while pointing!
10. Baby Touch and Feel Christmas by DK Publishing
Another touch-and-feel favorite, this one features festive images like Santa hats and shiny ornaments. It’s perfect for infants and curious toddlers!
11. Disney’s Christmas Clubhouse by Disney Books
Mickey and friends bring holiday cheer in this interactive board book. It’s full of familiar faces, making it a nostalgic pick for Disney-loving families.
12. Little Blue Truck’s Christmas by Alice Schertle
Little Blue Truck spreads Christmas cheer as he delivers trees to his friends. The surprise light-up page at the end is a magical treat for little readers! We love this one.
13. The Nutcracker by Luciana Feito
This charming retelling of the Nutcracker story has a whimsical twist. The unique illustrations and modern voice make it an engaging way to introduce children to the classic tale.
More Magical Holiday Books for Kids
14. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg
A timeless story of belief and the magic of Christmas, this classic tale enchants readers of all ages. We like to read this one after our real-life Polar Express train ride!
15. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
I’m typically anti-Dr. Seuss, but his tale of the Grinch and his change of heart is a holiday staple. Its whimsical rhymes are as delightful as ever, enough to almost make me forget my dislike for the author.
16. Olive, the Other Reindeer by J. Otto Seibold and Vivian Walsh
Follow Olive the dog as she joins Santa’s team, thinking she’s a reindeer! This quirky story is a great mix of humor and holiday spirit.
17. The Biggest Snowman Ever by Steven Kroll
A charming story about teamwork and friendship, perfect for snowy days and warm hearts.
18. How to Catch a Reindeer by Alice Walstead
This festive installment in the How to Catch series combines clever rhymes with wacky contraptions. Kids will love following the hilarious attempts to catch Santa’s speedy reindeer!
19. Room for a Little One by Martin Waddell
This beautifully illustrated Nativity story is gentle and heartwarming, making it a perfect choice for teaching the meaning of Christmas.
20. Construction Site on Christmas Night by Sherri Duskey Rinker
This festive addition to the Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site series is all about teamwork, kindness, and the joy of giving.
21. The Mitten by Jan Brett
Jan Brett’s stunning illustrations bring this Ukrainian folktale to life. It’s a wintery classic about sharing and community.
22. Pete the Cat Saves Christmas by Eric Litwin
Pete the Cat takes over for Santa in this groovy Christmas adventure. Kids will love its upbeat tone and catchy refrain.
23. Never Touch a Grumpy Elf! by Rosie Greening
This interactive book features fun silicone textures kids can’t resist touching. Its silly rhymes and playful illustrations are sure to get little ones giggling.
24. Ten on the Sled by Kim Norman
This playful story, set to the tune of Ten in the Bed, is a fun and frosty counting book.
25. Frosty the Snowman by Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins
Bring the classic song to life with this illustrated version of Frosty the Snowman. It’s perfect for a sing-along storytime!
Why We Love the Christmas Book Basket Tradition
Unwrapping a Christmas book each night gives kids something to look forward to, fosters literacy, and creates calm, meaningful family moments during the busy holiday season. Whether paired with your Elf on the Shelf or enjoyed as a standalone family tradition, it’s an easy way to fill December with joy, laughter, and connection.
ACTIONABLE STEPS: Build your own holiday book basket! What are your favorite children’s holiday books? Share your must-read Christmas books for kids in the comments — I’m always adding to our holiday library! ❤️
