As the end of the year draws near, Christmas seems to arrive in every corner of our communities, the twinkling lights, tinsel-draped rooms, carols humming softly in the background, and children’s excitement bubbling over like a fizzy drink on a hot day. For many, it’s a time of joy and connection. But for some families in our early learning centres, Christmas isn’t part of their tradition, faith, or cultural identity. As kaiako, we hold the privilege and responsibility of ensuring that all children - regardless of what they celebrate - feel a deep sense of belonging, comfort, and inclusion during this time.

Te Whāriki reminds us that “children experience an environment where they know that they have a place.” That message feels especially important at this time of year. Inclusion doesn’t mean we have to remove Christmas entirely from our environments; rather, it invites us to widen our perspective - to focus on the values that underpin this season: kindness, gratitude, aroha, and whanaungatanga. When we shift from celebrating Christmas to celebrating connection, every child can see themselves reflected in our learning spaces.

One of the most powerful ways to start is by engaging with whānau. Ask families what this time of year means to them. Do they have end-of-year traditions, family gatherings, or cultural events that are important? Inviting these stories into your centre weaves a rich tapestry of belonging, one where tamariki see that there’s more than one way to celebrate joy and togetherness.

Within our daily practice, small, intentional choices can make a big difference. Craft experiences, for instance, can be reimagined to include everyone. Instead of Santa faces and reindeer, think about art that celebrates summer and light, painting pōhutukawa flowers, weaving stars from harakeke, or making gratitude cards for friends and whānau. The sparkle of glitter and colour doesn’t belong to one tradition; it can shine for all.

If your centre puts up a tree, it can easily become a Tree of Kindness or Tree of Gratitude. Each child can hang a small note, drawing, or photo of something that makes them feel thankful. A nature-inspired tree decorated with pinecones, shells, flax flowers, or dried oranges connects children to te taiao, celebrating the natural beauty of Aotearoa in summer.

Music and storytelling also offer beautiful opportunities to honour diversity. Alongside classic Christmas tunes, play waiata, Pacific songs, or children’s songs about summer, the ocean, or friendship. Read stories from different cultures that explore the themes of giving, family, and light - like Diwali Lights by Rina Singh or Māori pūrākau that remind us of renewal and connection. This gentle blend allows children to experience multiple perspectives without feeling left out.

Cooking and kai-sharing are another wonderful way to unite children around universal experiences. Try baking star-shaped biscuits (stars appear in celebrations all around the world), fruit kebabs in festive colours, or hold a shared kai day where everyone brings their favourite summer dish. By shifting the focus from “Christmas lunch” to “celebrating summer together,” you open the door for everyone to participate in a way that feels comfortable and joyful.

Even the classic “Santa visit” can be reframed. Instead of focusing on receiving presents, Santa could arrive to read a story about kindness or bring a message of aroha. Alternatively, tamariki might become the givers - creating small handmade gifts or cards for others in the community, learning that the true magic of the season lies in giving, not receiving.

The sensory side of Christmas can also be celebrated in inclusive ways. Think light and shadow play with fairy lights and mirrors, sensory trays filled with snow-like textures or seashells, and loose parts play in red, green, gold, and natural tones. These experiences tap into the wonder of the season without centering one belief system.

Of course, questions from children often arise “Why don’t my friends have a Christmas tree?” or “Why can’t everyone celebrate?” These moments are golden opportunities to build empathy and understanding. A simple, heartfelt response such as, “Every family has their own special ways of celebrating or resting - isn’t it wonderful that we can all share our stories here?” encourages curiosity and respect. Through these small conversations, we nurture compassion that will travel far beyond our walls.

Ultimately, leading through the Christmas season is about living out Kotahitanga (unity) and Whanaungatanga (connection). Inclusion isn’t about walking on eggshells; it’s about walking alongside - acknowledging, learning, and celebrating difference. When tamariki see their beliefs and those of their friends honoured equally, they grow up knowing that diversity is not just accepted, but treasured.

So as the end of the year unfolds, let’s pause amidst the busyness and ask ourselves: How can we make this season feel calm, inclusive, and meaningful for every child and whānau in our care? Whether you’re reading stories under the shade of a pōhutukawa tree, creating a kindness wall, or simply slowing down to share laughter and connection, remember, the greatest gift we can give our children is a sense of belonging.

Because sometimes, the most powerful celebration isn’t the one that sparkles the brightest - it’s the one that celebrates us all.