General News
6 December, 2024
Santa's a sign of joy or nightmares - depending on your age
It is my second year celebrating Christmas with grandchildren and for the first time my two granddaughters are starting to pay attention to the signs of the season.
It is my second year celebrating Christmas with grandchildren and for the first time my two granddaughters are starting to pay attention to the signs of the season.
Last year they were still babies and the big man with the white beard and red coat and hat - Santa in case you haven't connected with the description - didn't really impact their emotions.
But this year I'm guessing the obligatory picture with a shopping mall Santa could be on the cards. Although, as is typical of children that age, it may be accompanied by tears and protests leading to a prompt cancellation of the close encounter with the jolly fellow.
I have been doing a few things to ensure they are less afraid of this strange man. This has included placing Santa ornaments throughout my home so the bearded character becomes familiar to them. They have become equally fascinated with the outdoor decorations of our neighbours so a tour of the street is always in order when they visit during the festive season.
I have also noticed when I am with them in shopping malls they are intrigued by the Santa figurines for sale and decorating many stores. As such I make sure to give them a closer look.
I'm not sure it will be enough - and I haven't yet cleared a space for this year's Santa picture - but I am doing all I can to ensure the experience is a positive one for them.
In doing this I have reached out to colleagues and friends with children or grandchildren to find out what they do to boost the excitement while eliminating the fear and have been given a few great tips.
One colleague mentioned she sat down to help their child write a letter to Santa and when they took it to the Post Office for mailing they immediately received response from the big fellow which was handed to them by the Post Office staff. Now that has to be a great boost for any child.
It has also been suggested to let them watch older children have their special catch-up with shopping centre Santas to show them that it is not a scary experience.
I would love to hear other ideas to boost the festive cheer - as opposed to tears - of young ones.
Jackie Meyers, editor