Ralphie’s Tips for a Successful Visit with Santa Claus

By Charlana Albios

In the movie, A Christmas Story, Ralphie and Randy have a less than successful visit with Santa Claus at Higbee’s department store. Although Ralphie thinks he’s prepared for his visit to ask Santa for a Red Rider Air Rifle, things don’t go according to plan. We don't want your preschooler to have the same awful experience that Ralphie did, so here are tips to ensure a delightful visit with Santa.

The week before Christmas is the busiest time to visit Santa. If you want to avoid lines, go in the morning and preferably before schools are out on break.

 

If you think your preschooler will feel uneasy about taking a photo with Santa, visit early in December before it gets busy. Since there probably won’t be lines, the situation will not be as overwhelming and rushed. Take this opportunity to just stop by to see Santa and, if he is willing, let your preschooler tell Santa what he wants for Christmas. If you can get a photo during the first trip that’s great, but plan to take your preschooler back a second time when he will probably feel more comfortable.

 

If your preschooler refuses to sit on Santa’s lap and you still want a photo, see if he is willing to stand close enough to Santa’s chair to be in the picture. If he absolutely refuses to go it alone, consider doing a family photo. Be prepared and dress appropriately.

 

Help your preschooler make a wish list prior to their visit with Santa. With all the excitement going on your preschooler might forget what he was going to say. If he brings a list, Santa can help him remember.

 

Make sure your preschooler eats, is well-rested, and uses the restroom before you get in line. You can’t be prepared for everything, but you can try to avoid the most common issues that come up. It’s also a good idea to brings snacks, a bottle of water (not juice that might stain), and a toy to keep your preschooler occupied if the wait ends up being longer than expected.

 

If at all possible, don’t go without reinforcement. When your preschooler has to use the restroom or is tired of waiting around, it will be beneficial to have someone with you that can keep your place in line or help chase after him.

 

If your preschooler is not acquainted with what Santa looks like, his white beard and red suit can be startling. Before your visit, read books and watch movies with your preschooler to familiarize him with Santa's appearance so that he will feel more comfortable approaching him.

 

If your preschooler doesn't want anything to do with Santa, be prepared to walk away and try again next year. Don’t force him or it will just make matters worse. If you feel you must have a picture to mail out with your Christmas cards, opt for a holiday photo at home.

 

Sometimes the worst photos turn out to be the most treasured memories. For many years to come, that less than perfect photo of your preschooler with tousled hair, tears streaming down his face and juice spilled down the front of his new Christmas outfit, will be laughed about and is sure to bring back cherished memories.