The holiday season is the perfect time to inspire creativity and boost literacy skills, and these Christmas writing prompts for kids offer countless ways to encourage young writers. From magical adventures to thoughtful reflections on family traditions, writing about the winter holidays provides a fun, engaging way to practice narrative, descriptive, and persuasive skills. Whether your child loves fantastic stories about the North Pole or enjoys sharing their favorite holiday memories, these prompts will help them capture the festive spirit on paper.
100 Christmas writing prompts for kids
The prompts below are designed to spark imagination and strengthen writing abilities across different genres.
Creative Christmas writing prompts
These prompts focus on imagination, character creation, poetry, and “what if” scenarios.
1. Imagine you wake up to find that your pet dog has learned how to speak! Write a conversation between you and your talking dog as you open presents.
2. Write a story about finding the abominable snowman in your family’s kitchen making a cup of hot chocolate.
3. Write a story about Rudolph’s cousin, the unknown reindeer who loves to sing.
4. Write a story about a magical, starry night adventure that happens on Christmas Eve.
5. Imagine you find a mysterious glowing ornament hidden deep in the branches of your Christmas tree. When you touch it, where does it take you?
6. You are tasked with inventing a new type of holiday cookie, but everything goes wrong when your experimental recipe causes them to come alive! Describe the chaos that ensues.
7. Write a poem about what it’s like to be a snowman.
8. If a Christmas tree could talk, it would say … (Complete the sentence and write the story).
9. Imagine you could create a special holiday project to help your community – what would it be, and how would you get others involved?
10. If you were an elf, what kind of toys would you build?
11. Write an adventure story about a gingerbread man who wants to be a detective. What mysteries does he solve?
12. Create an acrostic poem using the words “Merry Christmas.
13. Write your own Christmas carol.
14. The old, abandoned toy factory came to life as toys of all shapes and sizes started marching out on their own. Write a story about the toy parade.
15. Draw a new sleigh for Santa that would allow him to carry five times more presents. What is special about it, and does it have any magical powers?
16. Imagine if everyone woke up on Christmas morning to find their houses filled with silly prank gifts like exploding confetti-filled stockings. Write a humorous poem about the morning.
17. Write a short story about chimneys, a real tree, Christmas presents, and your favorite family traditions.
18. On a snowy afternoon, my friends and I built an enchanted snowman who magically granted our wishes for one day only. Write about the day.
19. Imagine you find a small, beautifully wrapped present that is meant for “The Person Who Needs It Most”. You decide to deliver it. Write about how you choose the recipient and what happens when they open the gift.
20. One morning, you wake up to find a friendly, talking polar bear sitting at your kitchen table, asking for a cookie. Write a story about his visit and why he is far from the North Pole.
Narrative Christmas writing prompts
These prompts focus on telling a story, a sequence of events, and a character perspective.
1. Write about when you come downstairs on Christmas morning and find Santa stuck in the chimney. Explain why he got stuck, how you get him out, and what happens next.
2. Write a story with the title “The Year that Christmas was Almost Cancelled.” Describe the problem and the situation.
3. Imagine you wake up on Christmas Eve to find that your Christmas tree has turned into a magical portal to the North Pole. What happens when you step through?
4. I couldn’t believe it when the Christmas tree … (Write a spooky or funny story based on this starter).
5. Write a story about how a family discovers the true reason for celebrating Christmas.
6. Recall a time when you received an unexpected act of kindness or generosity during the holidays and describe its impact on you.
7. Write a different ending to The Gingerbread Man.
8. Imagine you were one of the shepherds who heard the angel announce the birth of the Christ child. Write about the evening.
9. Write about the best Christmas present you have ever received. Why was it so special?
10. Christmas Eve was especially cold and snowy last year. So cold in fact, that I couldn’t sleep! As I tossed and turned in bed, I caught a glimpse of something outside my window… I could not believe my eyes – it was Santa! Write the rest of the story.
11. While decorating the Christmas tree, I discovered an ancient map hidden within its branches that led to a secret treasure. Write about the adventure that followed.
12. Write about the excitement of finding hidden stockings filled with surprises on Christmas morning.
13. Write about a time when you helped someone or saw something doing something kind during the holidays.
14. If you were a gingerbread cookie, you would… (Complete the sentence and write the story).
15. Have you ever looked for hidden presents? Did your parents find out? Write the story.
16. You wake up on Christmas morning to find that everyone’s Christmas gifts have vanished! Write an adventure story on how you recover them.
17. While ice skating at the local pond on Christmas Day, you discover a hidden cave filled with sparkling crystals that seem to glow from within. What do you do?
18. An expected blizzard stranded travelers at an old inn on Christmas Eve, leading to heartwarming connections and unexpected friendships. Write about the night.
19. Write about the first day at your new job as an apprentice to Mrs. Claus, organizing the enormous list of children and presents.
20. Tell a story about the time your family decided to celebrate Christmas in a completely unexpected place (like a tropical beach or a desert). What was different, and what traditions did you keep?
Opinion Christmas writing prompts
These prompts ask children to state an opinion and use evidence or reasoning to support it.
1. Is Christmas about giving or receiving? Explain your opinion with clear reasons.
2. Write a persuasive letter to Santa Claus to convince him to move from the North Pole to your hometown.
3. Write a persuasive paragraph convincing your parents (or Santa) why they should get you a particular gift you really want.
4. Do you think that people begin preparing for Christmas too early? Explain your answer.
5. Persuade Santa why he should keep the reindeer and sleigh or switch to a jet. Discuss the pros and cons of each mode of transport.
6. How many Christmas gifts do you think a child your age should get? Explain your reasons clearly.
7. Would you rather have a Christmas tree made entirely of candy canes or one decorated with only twinkling lights? Why?
8. Would you rather wear an ugly Christmas sweater every day for the whole month of December or never be able to wear any festive clothing at all during the holidays? Explain your choice.
9. Who would you rather have as a friend: one of Santa’s elves or a snowman that magically came to life? Explain your choice.
10. Is Christmas too commercialized? Explain your answer.
11. I think Christmas trees are… because… (Complete the sentence and justify your opinion).
12. Do you prefer to give or get presents? Why?
13. What is the best thing to build with snow? Justify your choice.
14. What do you think is the most wanted Christmas gift on everyone’s wish list this Christmas? Why?
15. If you could give any gift to the world, what would it be? Explain your reason.
16. Write a persuasive paragraph convincing a skeptic that Santa Claus really does exist.
17. Would you rather have a snowy or sunny Christmas? Why?
18. Explain why giving is more important than receiving during this holiday season.
19. Rudolph is sick and can’t lead the sleigh! Who do you think would be the best animal (real or fictional) to step in, and give three strong reasons for your choice?
20. Would you rather have a cozy Christmas morning breakfast in bed with hot pancakes and cocoa, or a big, festive brunch with all your family? Justify your preference.
Descriptive Christmas writing prompts
These prompts challenge writers to use rich vocabulary, sensory details, and imagery.
1. Write a paragraph or poem using the five senses describing Christmas day at your home. What do you see, feel, hear, smell, and taste?
2. Write a detailed description of your family’s Christmas tree, focusing on the lights, ornaments, and scent.
3. Describe the feeling of anticipation as you wait for Christmas morning on Christmas Eve night.
4. How does it feel to turn on the Christmas lights for the first time? Describe the moment.
5. Describe your favorite Christmas tradition and explain why it is meaningful to you.
6. What does your favorite family Christmas tradition look, sound, and smell like?
7. Describe the chaos and joy that happens when everyone is opening their gifts on Christmas morning.
8. If you were a Christmas ornament, describe what you would see hanging on the tree throughout the month of December.
9. Imagine what it would be like to live in a gingerbread house? Describe the walls, the roof, and the food.
10. Describe how the atmosphere changes as dusk settles on Christmas Eve, bringing an air of excitement and warmth.
11. Write about the joyous sounds that fill the air during caroling sessions held in neighborhoods on Christmas Eve.
12. Describe a Christmas tradition from a different country or culture.
13. Describe your most memorable Christmas meal or feast, including all the delicious dishes served and the sounds of the table.
14. What are your favorite Christmas decorations? Describe them in detail.
15. Describe the magical feeling as snowflakes fall gently from the sky on Christmas Eve night.
16. Describe how people come together at community events such as candlelight vigils or charity drives.
17. Describe the warmth and comfort of sitting by a fireplace, sipping hot cocoa, on a cold winter night.
18. What does Christmas morning feel like? Use three descriptive words and explain why.
19. Describe the scent and look of your favorite Christmas cookie, including its texture and taste, using at least five sensory words.
20. Imagine you are standing in the middle of Santa’s workshop. Describe what you see, hear, and smell as the elves rush to finish the final toys before Christmas Eve.
Simple Christmas writing prompts for younger kids
These prompts are perfect for elementary-aged students, focusing on lists, short answers, and simple directions.
1. Make a Christmas wish list (at least 5 items).
2. Write a letter to Santa sharing what makes this holiday season special for you.
3. Write a step-by-step guide on how to make the best gingerbread house ever!
4. Write your favorite Christmas recipe (or describe how to make a hot cocoa).
5. My favorite Christmas traditions are… because…
6. My favorite Christmas movie is… because…
7. If I could choose any gift to receive, it would be…
8. I am most thankful for this Christmas day because…
9. Write a list of five different Christmas activities you want to do with your family and/or friends this year.
10. Write about your first day at your new job as an elf.
11. Write a Christmas card to someone special.
12. Use these holiday words in a story: snowflake, reindeer, cookie, bell, and mitten.
13. What is your favorite Christmas song?
14. What are you most grateful for this holiday season?
15. What is the best thing you’ve ever found in your stocking?
16. Write down three reasons why your favorite Christmas was your favorite.
17. What does Christmas mean to you? (Write 3-5 sentences).
18. When does your family put presents under the tree?
19. List five ways you can help someone you love this Christmas.
20. If I could decorate my own Christmas tree with any three things (not ornaments), what would they be and why?
Final thoughts
Incorporating these Christmas writing prompts for kids into holiday activities is an excellent way to keep their academic skills sharp while celebrating the season. Writing encourages children to process new ideas, reflect on traditions, and develop a stronger sense of self-expression. By offering a range of prompt types – from imaginative storytelling to thoughtful opinion pieces – you can cater to various learning styles and keep the excitement of the holidays alive. These creative exercises are gifts of creativity and literacy that will benefit them long after the new year begins, turning seasonal joy into lasting educational growth.
Looking for more fun Christmas activities? Check out these creative Christmas writing worksheets to keep the holiday spirit going!
