Christmas Craft FREEBIE

Tomorrow I am going to be a substitute Sunday School teacher in my son's class. Since it will be the first day of advent, I decided to work in this craft I made last year. I was inspired by the Thanksgiving Story beads I had done for years. I thought, "Why not retell the Christmas Story using the same idea?"  You can make bracelets, ornaments, necklaces, or just retelling strings. All you need are pony beads and twine, leather, or ribbon. 

Here is a quick run down of each bead's significance.

1 blue for the land of Israel, the place of Christ's birth

1 white for the messenger angel who appeared to Mary

1 yellow for the taxes that had to paid in Bethlehem

1 brown for the stable where Jesus would be born

1 brown for the manger they laid him in

1 green for the shepherds in their fields that night

1 white for the angel who brought them glad tidings

1 white for the heavenly host who sang praises

1 black for the shepherds who made their way through the night

1 yellow for the star that shone in the sky

3 purples for the wise men who brought gifts fit for a king

I have all of the directions, story summary sheets, and a mini-coloring book to go with the bead craft available in this freebie from my store. You can grab yours {HERE} or on the picture below. 

I am linking up with Ashley Reed for her "Have Yourself a Crafty 'Lil Christmas" party. Click the button below to see more idea posts. 

The Animals' Santa by Jan Brett

Did you know that Jan Brett has a new book out for Christmas? It is called The Animals' Santa. It is the sweetest book! It is all about a hare named Little Snow. He wants to know if the animals have their own Santa. His brother and friends all talk about gifts they have received. They all have their own theories about who their Santa could be. Little Snow thinks they are all fooling him. The animals don't have a Santa, but around midnight they all find out who their Santa really is!

I love anything Jan Brett writes, and this one is sure to be a classic just like her other works! I created a book study to go along with this new book. You can check it out {HERE} or on the pic below. It is packed with meaningful activities that are directly related to the text.

Here is a quick, little Animals' Santa freebie for you, too! Click {HERE} or on the pic to download your copy. :)

I found this awesome video on Jan Brett's YouTube channel. She gives you a little tour inside of her studio. You get to meet the rabbit she used as the inspiration for her illustrations. Then, she does a step by step guide on how to draw Little Snow. I am sure you will enjoy it! 

Now, go grab your own copy of the book! You will LOVE it!