Non-Christian's how would you handle this? I'm torn (long)

[Puffy2]

I am a HUGE supporter of separation of church and state...and if this was a public school I would probably have a different opinion (no probably about it, I would..) but...

this is a private school and it is a "Christmas" program. I would expect that there might be a few references to Christmas in the program.

Allow your child to participate or not, that is up to you.

 

[ioahulk]

Ds is 4 and in a private preschool. It is not affiliated with any religions organization. Today when I dropped him off the class was picking out a song for the Christmas program. The two I heard being considered were Joy to the World and Away in a Manger. Both clearly religions songs.

Don't take those songs too seriously. If you don't believe in what the songs are about, just treat them like you would any other song that's based on a fairy tale. If songs about Frosty the Snowman and Santa Clause don't bother you, don't let songs based on something you don't believe in get to you either. Santa is a nice story with a nice message as are the stories about a baby Jesus...does it matter if they are really true?

 

[Miss Jasmine]

I agree with the posters who said to pick your battles.

I also think that children singing Away in the Manager is just too cute.

Let me add, that I am a Christian, but I can understand your feelings.

 

[rigs32]

I would absolutely at least mention to the teacher your discomfort. If the teacher was looking specifically for a song about baby jesus, she/he likely wasn't even considering the fact that some of the kids might NOT be christian. Opening eyes is important.

My DH had to speak up at his last Air Force drill weekend and explain the reason why his wife chose not to attend the christmas party was because it was specifically a christmas party and not a holiday one and I am uncomfortable at such events. They aren't going to change it, but it at least made people think about it. And there was talk about a less christian-centric event in future years. Maybe then I will attend.

 

[cardaway]

My DH had to speak up at his last Air Force drill weekend and explain the reason why his wife chose not to attend the christmas party was because it was specifically a christmas party and not a holiday one and I am uncomfortable at such events. They aren't going to change it, but it at least made people think about it. And there was talk about a less christian-centric event in future years. Maybe then I will attend.

Good for him. The recent stories on the AF show that they have exactly the problem that the OP may have to be on the lookout for. Definately a situation where things went unchecked and got out of control.

 

[pearlieq]

And besides, there are thousands of songs out there that people sing every day simply because they like the rhythm or the music, others listen for the message. Mmmmmbop anyone?

Hey! There was a profound philosophical message in Mmmmmbop!

Honestly, the change in tone you mentioned would skeeve me out a bit. If they've already gone secular, why are the changing it now? Something doesn't seem quite right there.

Traditional Christmas carols are beautiful pieces of music and can be enjoyed on those merits. When we sang the token Hanukkah song at our school holiday program there was never any expectation that we abscribed to the faith system we were singing about. We were just singing a pretty song used to celebrate a holiday in a different culture. I agree with others that this is a very good teaching opportunity.

I would talk to the director about the overt change in tone for the celebration. Perhaps if you can find out why the suddenly switched like that you can figure out if this is going to be a tonal switch for the whole daycare program or just someone new and unaware arranging the program.

Good luck!