To make your letter from Santa truly magical, you should keep the following suggestions in mind as you customize the child’s letter:
If applicable, you should address or acknowledge a recent or profound change in a child’s life (new school, new sibling, new family, loss of family or friends, etc)
Maybe reflect on the child’s courage or things the child has had to endure. Let those attributes or qualities be your inspiration
Maybe reflect on any sacrifices the child has had to make. Children and adults both respond well when their sacrifices are recognized and validated
Let “Santa” be an extention or reflection of your own feelings. Reflect upon what you love about the child and maybe incorporate that in the letter. Maybe think of one or two things that make that child special and talk about it. Don’t forget how much you love your child. You don’t have to spend a lot of time on it if you aren’t comfortable writing, but you should mention it.
Give praise. Children love praise. They love when Santa notices accomplishments or things they have worked on. Maybe comment on things that are important to the child
Teens love praise, too. Many parents use a letter from Santa to tell their teen they love them, or to tell them things that may difficult to say in person. So keep that in mind
Parents or loved ones can use a letter from Santa to welcome newly married children to Santa’s delivery route
Sometimes its just easier to tell your child you love them by pretending you are Santa Claus
Write the letter from the 1st person perspective. Say “I’ll be watching.” or “I am really proud of you for ___” instead of “Santa knows _____”
Be encouraging and supportive; be positive, reinforcing, uplifting; avoid making Santa sound overpowering or super strict
Occasionally talk “to” the child in the letter, not just “at” the child. For example, “Don’t hit your brothers” (talking at) vs “Don’t hit your brothers, ok Jack” (talking to)
Children love to impress Santa, so when Santa recognizes their good behavior, or an accomplishment, praise them
If the child has recently visited with Santa, acknowledge the visit and maybe talk about it a little
