Not so perfect~ teachable Moments~ Advent

I love sharing the joy and meaning of Christmas with my two little girls ( ages 3 and 5). I'm really good about teaching my children using life as a canvas. We talk when we walk, when we play...I'm always looking for teachable moments. What I'm not great about is planning out a complete spiritual teaching time with the girls. We have an advent calendar and activity book and I go 3 days without opening the little windows. We don't always do the "Advent craft" suggested in the little book.....Is this a reason for me to bypass teaching about Advent? Advent as tradition goes is the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. Well, it's now 9 days before Christmas so I kind of feel like I might have missed the mark with sharing in this tradition?!

Then I read about Advent. Not the structure of it. But the purpose of it.

Here is the Meaning:

1st candle -(purple) " candle of hope" We can have hope because God is faithful and will keep the promises he made to us. Our hope comes from God. ( Romans 15:12-13

2nd candle- (purple) "Candle of preparation" Preparation means to "get ready". "Help us to be ready to welcome you, Oh God! ( Luke 3:4-6)

3rd candle- (pink) "Candle of Joy" The angles sang the message of Joy! ( Luke 2:7-15)

4th Candle- ( purple)" Candle of Love" God sent his one and only Son to earth to save us , because he loves us! ( John 3 16-17)

When I read the meaning, it gives me hope!

My tip: If your not the perfect Mom, with perfect timing and perfect craft projects lined up to teach your kids the meaning of Christmas; look for teachable moments and be creative.

I'm going to make an Advent Wreath with the girls this week. Four days before Christmas ( not 4 weeks) we will lite the candles and read the meaning of Advent and pray.

I think this will work well..and prepare their little hearts to celebrate their Saviors Birth on Christmas day and everyday!