Atheist Parents - Unite!

I often come onto glow and read comments thanking God or asking God for things, and it seems like a blanket accepted answer when things are stressful or there are unknowns. I don't say this to put religious people down - on the contrary, I fully support people who have a faith or religious practice. I am almost jealous - it would be comforting to be able to accept that somebody is watching out for me or that there is some sort of plan. But I just can't personally believe that. I never will.

As an Atheist and a parent to a preschooler, with another little one on the way, Christmas season is especially difficult to navigate. We don't go to church and while my daughter is aware that other households pray before dinner and believe that Jesus is in their hearts, the story of Christ's birth is not something she is familiar with. I always stress the importance of Christmas being about giving to others, showing love to our family, and being "a helper." However Christian culture is pervasive, especially within our extended family. I feel that it is at times confusing for her - why do we respectfully pray at grandma and grandpa's, but not at home? How does everyone know the same religious Christmas songs but me? Stuff like that.

Other atheist parents raising non-religious children - how do you do Christmas? And how do you explain to your kids what your (non)beliefs are in times of stress or heartache (like the death of a pet or a difficult time)? When you won't say that there is a heaven, or there is a plan, what do you say instead?

Just wanted to invite a civil discussion