by Dee Cain

Created on: December 12, 2009

Amid all the holiday excitement is the task of writing a letter to Santa. Kids place their very hopes and dreams of having that special present under the tree come Christmas morning. By helping to write the letter, a parent actually can steer the child toward the gifts that may be economically feasible for the family budget. It would also make for less disappointment if the most expensive or unobtainable gifts, should be missing when the presents are opened.

Make writing a letter to Santa fun. Let the children pick ten things they would like for Santa to bring but explain that Santa can't possibly bring everything on the list. Suggest he may only be able to bring one or two things as he has to have room in his bag for everyone. This will actually give the parent a reason to only get one or two things instead of everything on the list.

Next step is to begin the letter. This is important since it teaches the kids how to write a letter. If they just write "Hey Santa" in the salutation, the parents miss an opportunity to start the kids out correctly when writing a letter.

Once the children reach the body of the letter, let them use their imagination. Don't just let them put "I want...", have the use full sentences as if writing to their Grandparents. Something as simple as:

I have been very good this year.

For Christmas, I would like....

Basically, instill manners when letter writing. Then let them list what they would like. Perhaps, have them tell Santa why they would like this toy or gift. This will definitely help when trying to decide what on the list is important.

It will probably surprise parents, that more often then not, letters to Santa contain request for gifts for other family members, as well as for themselves. If the child wishes to include others, go with the idea. This would be a great time to have them put in gift items for siblings, grandparents and parents. Suggest to them things that may actually end up under the tree. Items already bought, made or intended to be purchased will reinforce the child's belief in Santa.

Steer the children's ideas away from animals, unless a new pet is going to arrive on Christmas. It would be very disappointing for the child to ask for a pony but they live in an apartment. Suggest that might not be the best place to have a pony. Perhaps you could guide them back to the gifts they may actually receive.

Finally, have them thank Santa for the gifts from the previous year. This is another way for a parent to start to instill the use of manners by thanking someone for gifts received.

After signing their name let them decorate the letter with drawings, stickers and whatever is available. Then do the same with the envelope.

If the child wants to add to the letter by asking how things are going at the North Pole, inquire on Mrs. Claus or any other appropriate questions, let them have their fun. They may want to mention the cookies and milk, which they will leave as a treat. This is really the reward for helping your child write a letter to Santa.

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