Christmas Storytimes are one of my favorites. Christmas picture books in general are so delightful and they lend themselves so well to be read aloud and paired with Christmas activities.
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Reindeer Read Alouds
Dasher
by Matt Tavares
This is easily one of the most beautiful Christmas books I’ve seen in the last decade. It is the imagined origin story for Dasher and how the reindeer came to work for Santa. Dasher is a daring and determined heroine. The story is heartbreaking, inventive and filled with action. I absolutely love this addition to our Christmas collection. (And don’t miss the sequel: DASHER CAN’T WAIT FOR CHRISTMAS)
Comet: The Unstoppable Reindeer
by Jim Benton
A rhyming, over the top, but also sweet Christmas tale featuring Comet the Reindeer. Comet gets injured but ends up having to save Christmas, despite his broken arm. This has the kind of ridiculous humor that adults don’t really understand but leaves kids rolling on the floor. Although the rhyming and silliness keeps the story moving along at a good clip, it is rather lengthy so I wouldn’t pull this one out for a young or antsy audience of listeners. Otherwise it is good, amusing, holiday fun.
Olive, The Other Reindeer
by Vivian Walsh
illustrated by J.otto Seibold
Olive the pup mistakes a song lyric on the radio and assumes she must be one of Santa’s reindeer. A fun adventure follows with plenty of mishaps. Dog fans will particularly enjoy this one.
The Naughtiest Reindeer
by Nicki Greenberg
Another funny reindeer adventure. Rudolf has a cold so it’s up to his sister, Ruby, to save Christmas.
The Little Reindeer
by Nicola Killen
Not silly like the others, but incredibly sweet and still a good read aloud. A unique wintry tale.
Sing:
- Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
Play, Make, and Learn: Reindeer Activities
- Make Reindeer Food to lay out for Santa’s Reindeer on Christmas Eve
- The Naughtiest Reindeer Craft from The Craft Train
- Watch the Movie Version of Olive, The Other Reindeer
- Map Comet’s Route with older kids using this Free Printable from My Storytime Corner.
