Taking the kids to see Santa somewhere this year? Hoping for that perfect family photo with Jolly Old Saint Nick in it? Here are a few tips for making your trip to see Santa a little easier.
Photo Credit: Ron Bennett
We talked to Mrs. Claus, Jeanne Pattison, for some ideas on making your visit a great memory. She and her husband, Mr. Claus (Bill), travel all over the United States to Santa conventions and are currently with the premier Adventure to Santa, A DreamWorks DreamPlace at the Southwest Plaza Mall in Littleton, Colorado.
- “Give yourself plenty of time,” Jeanne said. “Rushing creates tension. You might consider bringing your child out early in the day, keeping in mind that later in the day things become much more hectic and can upset and confuse children. Also they are more awake.”
- Prepare your child by talking about Santa ahead of time. “Read books to them about Santa. Let them see pictures of Santa or watch movies/cartoons about Santa and his reindeer,” Jeanne suggests. That will let them know to expect a big man with a white beard and red clothing.
- Visit the restroom before you visit Santa. Jeanne said, “If your child has a wet bottom let Santa’s helpers and Santa know. If Santa’s suit gets wet or soiled, everything stops, and he will have to go change. Ask if you can pass on your photo until you have time to go change your child’s diaper. They should allow this and let you come back to the front of the line.”
- If you do end up in a line to see Santa, bring along some toys or puzzles to keep the kids busy. “Don’t give children candy or food before visiting with Santa unless you have a moist towelette to clean their face and hands,” Jeanne said.
- Also, if the child has a cold or flu please wait to visit until the illness has passed. “Santa doesn’t want to be spreading germs, he and his helpers want everyone healthy and happy to enjoy the holidays,” she said.
Santa loves all the children who come to visit, Jeanne said. “Santa would love it if every child has a wonderful experience, but there will always be a few children who are so shy they will cry. Santa understands and will do his best to soothe and calm your child so you will have a wonderful experience and picture to remember.”
