As we grow older and our lives change, so do the things we value. Holidays, especially Christmas, tend to not feel the same as we grow out of our childhood habits. Although traditions may continue to live on, Christmas spirit may feel depleted. From toddlers, to school-aged children, to teenagers, all varying age ranges have a different perspective of Christmas and what it means to them.

With the gaps between ages and maturity, the purpose of celebrating the Christmas season transforms.

“Christmas means spending time with my family and celebrating Jesus’ birthday, as well as opening presents,” said Wesley Stainton, a third grader at the lower school. Many younger kids are captivated by Christmas for the sole purpose of receiving gifts and treats.

“Christmas means having fun with my family and celebrating around the table with good food and opening presents,” said Iris Pezzeminti, a fifth grader at the lower school. Many teenagers have younger siblings and feel the need to keep the Christmas spirit alive.

“Because my brother is younger, we have to work together to keep the magic alive for him,” said senior Evie Flickenger. She helps move the Elf on the Shelf and count down the days until Christmas for her little brother Brayden, a fourth grader at the lower school, making Brayden’s anticipation and excitement build more and more.

From being younger and believing in Santa Claus and the Elf on the Shelf, to just having the memories of once believing such myths, can lead to change in perception of Christmas.

“Christmas means good food, quality time with my family and friends, and cold weather,” said senior Virginia Lacey.

Gaining maturity means understanding the reason for the season on a deeper level.

“Christmas means that I am able to spend time with my family and loved ones while also celebrating the birth of Jesus,” said senior Jaeden McMillian. Christmas can still hold the same potency and magic as when we were younger due to nostalgia, the sentimental longing for the past, often a bittersweet feeling that is a mix of pleasure in recalling happy memories and sadness that they are gone.

“Growing up but still doing the traditions you did when you were little is what Christmas means to me,” said junior Hannah Harrington. Traditions live on, new memories shape, but overall emotions change.

Transitioning from a little kid to a teenager can come with pros and cons. Nostalgia and traditions can play a big role in how we celebrate Christmas. Having the myths of Santa Claus and the Elf Shelf live on can keep Christmas magic sparked. Once you find out the truth behind some Christmas lore, the season may feel different, but nostalgia can carry on the magic.