Instructions: Read the lyrics of the first two verses of the Christmas song 'Away in the Manger' below. Look at the lesson pictures, which show the Nativity.

Nativity scenes depict the circumstances of the birth of the baby Jesus. Members of the religion of Christianity believe Jesus was the son of God. Jesus was born in the city of Bethlehem in a stable for animals. He was placed in a manger, or animal feeding trough, because there were no rooms available at the inn. Christian people around the world celebrate Christmas to recognize the birth of the baby Jesus.

Use scissors, glue, paper, and crayons to cut out, color, and glue shapes to create your own Christmas nativity scene collage. You may wish to add the baby Jesus, his mother Mary, his father Joseph, animals such as cows and sheep, angels, and/or the three wise men.



Verses 1 and 2 of "Away in a Manger"

Away in a manger

No crib for a bed

The little Lord Jesus

Lay down his sweet head

The stars in the sky

Look down where he lay

The little Lord Jesus

Asleep on the hay



The cattle are lowing

The poor baby wakes

But little Lord Jesus

No crying he makes

I love thee Lord Jesus

Look down from the sky

And stay by my cradle

'Til morning is nigh