The nativity play, which draws on familiar elements of Chirst's birth related in the gospels of Matthew and Luke as well as later embellishments made to their narratives, is a cherished part of school life for young children and their families in the pre-Christmas period in Britain. Appropriately, these stamps celebrate this popular Christmas custom in 1994 which marked International Year of the Family.

Children and teachers work hard to ensure the success of their nativity play. Leading players rehearse their lines, while classes of choirs perfect well-known carols. Parents too are often drawn in, helping to make stage sets, props and costumes. What matters on the day of the nativity play is that the story of the first Christmas is told in a way which only the delightful innocence of children can create.

Each age has been able to find in the story of the Nativity the symbolism which most appeals to it. Through the nativity play, we are reminded today that Christmas is simply about love, sacrifice, tolerance and devotion to family life.