Keeping Christmas Wonder While Keeping Christ at the Center

As a young mom, I love seeing Christmas through my children’s eyes. The lights seem brighter, the music sweeter, and the idea that magic could be real feels almost tangible. Like many families, ours enjoys Santa, elves, and all the fun traditions that come with them. But as a Christian mom, I also carry a deep responsibility: making sure the wonder of Christmas never overshadows the reason we celebrate in the first place—the birth of Jesus Christ.

I don’t believe Santa and elves have to be the enemy of a faith-centered home. In fact, when handled thoughtfully, they can enhance our celebration rather than distract from it. The key is keeping everything in its proper place.

In our home, Jesus is not a “part” of Christmas—He is the foundation. Before we talk about reindeer or stockings, we talk about a baby born in a manger. We read the Christmas story straight from Scripture, often more than once during the season. My children know that Christmas is Jesus’ birthday, and everything else is a celebration because of Him.

Santa, for us, is framed as fun—not as the source of Christmas magic or generosity. We talk about Santa as a joyful tradition inspired by Saint Nicholas, a real person who loved Jesus and cared deeply for others. That helps our kids see Santa not as someone who replaces Christ, but as an example of kindness that points back to Him. Presents don’t come “because Santa thought you were good,” but as reminders of God’s greatest gift to us.

The same goes for elves. They can be playful and imaginative, but they don’t replace the role of parents or become a moral authority. Instead of emphasizing surveillance or perfection, we use them as lighthearted fun—sometimes even a way to serve others or spark conversations about helping, sharing, and loving like Jesus.

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that children can hold both wonder and truth at the same time.

They can delight in stories and traditions while understanding what truly matters, especially when parents consistently point their hearts in the right direction. When Christ is spoken of often, celebrated intentionally, and honored daily, He naturally remains central.

Christmas will always come with glitter, sugar cookies, and big imaginations. That’s part of its charm. But as Christian moms, we have the beautiful opportunity to anchor all that excitement in eternal truth. When we keep Christ at the center, the wonder of Christmas doesn’t fade—it deepens.