What 🦌 Rudolf Reminds Me Over Christmas
Growing up, we’re all surrounded by Christmas songs and stories. They play in the background at the shops, at school concerts, in the car, everywhere. We know them so well we don’t even think about them — Jingle Bells, Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, Frosty the Snowman, Silent Night. They’re part of the season, and we sing along without really paying attention.
But two years ago, for the first time, I actually listened to the lyrics of Rudolf the Red‑Nosed Reindeer. And it struck me how much of an underdog story it really is.
Rudolf didn’t fit in.
He didn’t look like the other reindeer.
He was teased for the very thing that made him unique.
He was left out, underestimated, and misunderstood.
For so many children — especially those who are neurodiverse, sensitive, or simply wired a little differently — this part of Rudolf’s story feels familiar. The world isn’t always designed with their strengths in mind.
But then comes the turning point.
A foggy night.
A stuck sleigh.
A problem no one else could solve.
And suddenly, the thing Rudolf was teased for becomes the thing that saves Christmas.
His difference becomes his strength. His uniqueness becomes his superpower. His story becomes a reminder that every child has a light — sometimes it just needs the right moment, the right support, or the right person to see it. For our kids, their “glowing nose” might be things like impulsivity, needing predictable routines, or communicating differently — alongside the bright sparks they bring, like curiosity, attention to detail, strong spelling, or great memory.
To the parents and carers reading this: If your child has ever felt like the underdog, or if you’ve ever worried that their differences will hold them back, Rudolf’s story is a gentle reminder that the world needs all kinds of brilliance. Progress doesn’t always look like the movies. Strength doesn’t always look like the other reindeer. And sometimes the biggest breakthroughs come from the qualities that once felt challenging.
To the kids who feel “different”: Your way of seeing the world matters. Your light matters. And one day, it will guide you somewhere extraordinary.
📚 Sharing the story with your child
If you have a quiet moment tonight, go through the Rudolf story or song with your child. It’s an easy way to talk about how being different doesn’t mean you’re behind or “less than.” Everyone has their own mix of strengths and challenges — the real task is figuring out what makes you shine.
📖 If your child enjoys listening to stories, try the story. (link here)
🎵If they connect better with music or shorter texts, the song might be easier to share. (link here)
The most important part is simply spending the moment with your child. Pause the video or story whenever you need to, and take a minute to explain what’s happening in a way that makes sense for them.
🎁 Christmas is a time for getting together, slowing down, and enjoying a small moment of connection.
Wishing you a peaceful, joyful Christmas Eve — and a new year filled with moments where your child’s strengths shine through, just like Rudolf lighting up the foggy sky.