The First Christmas Story for Kids | The Nativity of Jesus
Updated: 5 days ago
Experience the first Christmas in this reverent animated Catholic Nativity story for children and families. Journey with Mary and Joseph from the angel Gabriel’s announcement and Joseph’s faithful yes to Bethlehem, where Jesus is born and laid in a manger. Hear the angels proclaim good news of great joy, follow the shepherds as they hurry to meet the Savior, and discover the beautiful meaning of Emmanuel—God with us. This gentle Christmas Bible story encourages children to trust God like Mary, love faithfully like Joseph, and joyfully seek Jesus like the shepherds. It is perfect for Advent and Christmas viewing at home, in Catholic schools, religious-education classes, parishes, and homeschool families. Based on the Gospel accounts in Matthew 1 and Luke 1–2: Featuring the original Christmas song “The Night God Came Near.” If this story blesses your family, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who would enjoy celebrating the birth of Jesus.
After watching, families and catechists can talk about one moment that stood out, what it shows about following Jesus, and one small way to put that lesson into practice this week.
Free YouTube release on: December 14, 2026
Free teaching resources
Use this video at home, in your homeschool, or in parish faith formation. These materials are designed for children approximately ages 7–11, with suggestions for adapting the lesson by readiness. Choose Draw & Tell or Read & Write to suit your child.
Download the complete packet or choose individual pages below. Printable PDFs • US Letter • Black and white.
Complete lesson packet — 4 pages
Leader guide — 2 pages
Draw & Tell handout — 1 page; drawing and oral responses
Read & Write handout — 1 page; written responses
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