Nativity Blocks

Years ago, we helped our preschoolers and early elementary students make these during Advent. We supplied pre-sanded blocks. Some scissor-wielding volunteers cut the flannel shapes. While it’s not a child-created craft in the least—all the children did was glue it did provide children the opportunity for hours of imaginative play, which is critical to learning. These blocks score a 5 for affordability and durability. They won’t end up in the trash like foam crafts. They are a big hit with families.

I’d recommend going for felt with a bit more “ethnic” skin tones, but I like that the faces don’t have expressions. It leaves a bit more to the imagination and as the birth of Christ story can be lengthened, the expressionless faces allow for Mary to be surprised at hearing the news that she will bear the Christ child, and for Jospeh’s shocked and bewildered reaction to the same news. Later they can be a bit more awe-inspired and perhaps somber..

Today, I think I’d include an angel to double for the annunciation and the proclamation to the shepherds. A donkey for Mary to ride to Bethlehem could also be part of the stable animals. One could omit the three wise men to limit the number of blocks. And the Christ child could be added to the manger instead of the symbol of glory and light. But again, I like that it’s not that explicit and we can imagine Jesus without seeing him.