During this upside-down time, animals could speak. On Christmas Eve the cattle spoke and kneeled to honor the Christ child. However, for a human to hear them or attempt to hear them was dangerous and could be fatal. This may be part of the excited secrecy at Christmas. Adults and children keep secrets from each other about who is giving what to whom.
People whisper secrets and wrap presents behind closed doors.
It becomes deliciously dangerous to listen. There is so much mystery in the season, in the rituals then and now. The children loving spirits of Berchta and Hulda may well be influencing our hearts as we celebrate our children at Christmas. After all she would not be pleased with people who don't wash their hands or behind their ears or keep their things somewhat tidy. Yet, with all her power, it is she who cradles the neglected child, bringing protection and soothing to his fears.