Growing up Santa was one of my favorite people. To me, Santa wasn’t the man in the big red suit, but St. Nick, a man whose legends began with his volunteer spirit. I adored how much he cared for children and provided at Christmas for those who were less fortunate. It was his giving heart that inspired me to volunteer at any given opportunity during my youth. I made gifts for children in the community, sent cards to our military during Desert Storm, donated wish-list presents for the holidays, tutored younger children after school, and volunteered over 10,000 hours at the VA Hospital. I attribute all of these accomplishments to my love and admiration of Santa. Can you imagine not having Santa to inspire you as a child?
Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus.
~ Francis P. Church
Santa was such an inspiration to me growing up that I have made sure to carry-on that tradition with my own children. I don’t just share the story of a man coming down the chimney with them, but I also highlight how amazing it is for someone to give such a gift — to everyone!
5 Ways I Help my Children Love Santa
- Books: I am a huge fan of children’s books and I have several dozen Santa stories for them to read.
- Movies: Each night in December we watch a family holiday movie together. Who doesn’t love cuddling on the couch watching tales of Santa?
- Ornaments: I have several new and antique Santa ornaments. Each child has their own to place on the tree.
- Santa toys, figures, bedding, and decor: Santa is everywhere during Christmas, including all over the house!
- Community activities: We attend many community activities in December — especially the ones that Santa will be at!
“Santa is as real as the goodness and generosity he brings into the world. He’s as real as the family traditions he creates, and the love and warmth he brings into the lives of believers everywhere. If you believe in Santa, he’s real.” ~ Macy’s Believe
