Teaching Kids Through Letters to Santa

Smart parents know everything they do is a lesson in life. Even something as simple as a letter to Santa can teach moral values and other life lessons. The way kids are taught to write letters to Santa can reinforce social skills, manners and much more. Making simple suggestions to your child about how they communicate with Santa really makes a difference in how they view and respect others.

Make Santa a true friend. True friends care about each other. They don't just rattle off a list of demands. Maybe kids could ask Santa how he's doing. After all, he works pretty hard each year. He cares about the kids he brings presents to. It's only fair to show him the same respect. Kids could ask if he liked those cookies last year. Maybe he'd like a different kind. Teach kids to talk to Santa with the same respect they would show their close friends.

Mention the North Pole budget. Santa does bring Christmas gifts to every child in the world. That has to be a strain on his wallet. Teach kids empathy for the plight of others through letters to Santa. Try to keep the wish list down to things Santa can afford. Mention the kids who get no presents except from Santa. Maybe your kids could sacrifice one of their potential gifts for those children.

Make sure Santa can read the letter. Have your kids use their best handwriting when writing letters to Santa. After all, if he can't understand those letters, kids may get something they didn't want. Writing letters to Santa is a great way to teach things like how to format letters or where addresses and stamps go on envelopes.

Kids should always use their best manners. Writing letters to Santa is no exception. Remind them to say please when requesting gifts. Show them how to be less demanding and more grateful. Suggest they inquire about the elves and reindeer. Remember Mrs. Claus works hard too. It would be impolite not to ask how she's doing.

Get kids on Santa's nice list. Kids who wish to stay off the naughty list should act accordingly. Their letters to Santa should be polite and humble. No bragging, boasting or greediness allowed. Don't forget the thank-you letter. Kids who take the time to thank Santa after the gifts are opened learn to acknowledge the generosity of others their whole lives.

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