Gather your family around the table, at the kitchen counter, or on the sofa. Make sure everyone has a flat surface in front of them. Print out one copy of the story and enough doodle sheets so each participant has one. Read the story together and discuss. The doodle sheets will engage your listeners - ask them to share what they heard in the story.

Have you only been relying on Elf on the Shelf to get your family into the Christmas spirit? Consider stepping up your game this year by incorporating the liturgical season of Advent into your holiday traditions.

With just a couple of tweaks or additions, you can shift your family's focus to the true meaning of the season. Make sure you add these elements to your holiday displays around your home.

We are parents. We are pastors. We are people who have tried to pass along a life of faith to the younger humans that we are responsible for. We want to encourage you as you assume the role of a Christian educator in your home.

Kids need to see how a life of faith works - not just hear about it on Sunday mornings. They need to experience it every day.