Visiting Santa at Christmas time seems to be a rite of passage in childhood. With the man in red stationed in every mall, court square and store around town, it is almost impossible to miss stopping by and having children share a visit with him. Although parents are often eager to plop their little one's in Santa's lap and snap a quick picture for the family album, children can be a bit more reluctant about such an experience. Despite his good reputation of bringing toys to boys and girls, Santa Claus can be intimidating and scary for young kids. This year, prepare children before they go visit Santa and his gang to ensure the experience is fun and enjoyable for everyone.
- Discuss the basics about Santa. Sometimes adults forget that children do not naturally understand all the aspects of the holiday season. Various households have different stances on the Santa issue, ranging from believing in him 100% to simply enjoying the idea of Santa as he pertains to the celebration of Christmas. Explain the concept behind Santa to children by reading books about him, watching child-friendly movies and talking about his role in the family's celebration of the holidays.
- Role-play meeting Santa. Before actually going to visit Santa, talk about what the experience will be like when children meet him. Explain the process of (possibly) waiting in line, sitting in Santa's lap, having a picture made and telling Santa a wish from one's Christmas list. Take turns playing the role of Santa and practice visiting with him.
- Observe from the sidelines. Before rushing over to meet Santa, take time to stand back and watch other children in the process. Talk to little ones about how the other boys and girls are talking with Santa and getting their picture taken. Explain the process of standing in line and of leaving the area when time is up. Taking time to observe before greeting Santa will help kids be prepared for this holiday experience.
- Visit Santa during "off" hours. Taking a child to visit the mall Santa at noon on a Saturday during holiday shopping can be a recipe for disaster. Waiting in long lines and enduring the cries of other children can turn a fun experience into a terrifying ordeal (for both screaming child and mortified parent). Plan a visit with Santa in advance, attempting to catch him in times when he is not busy. Visiting him first thing in the morning on a weekday is a great time for kids to see Santa Claus without having to stand in long lines with other children and parents.
- Do not force the issue. Although parents greatly desire to have a picture of little Johnny with Santa, little Johnny just might not want to be involved in such an event. If a child is showing a lot of hesitancy or fear, do not force a visit with Santa upon him. Christmas can still be just as merry without a snapshot of a visit with Santa to place on the fireplace mantle.
Several area malls have Santas on duty from now through Christmas. Check out the links below to find one near you!
Grapevine Mills Mall in Grapevine
Vista Ridge Mall in Lewisville
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