Children are often times shy or scared, especially when they are between 18 months - 36 months of age, when coming to see Santa. Do not think that your child is unusual if this happens or that you have some how done something wrong. Many times a child will be fine the first year and them be terrified the second and third.

Below is a short list of things to do and not do when bringing your child to see Santa during these very difficult age for children.

1. DO NOT force your child up to see Santa
2. DO NOT tell them that Santa will not like them if they don't see him.
3. DO NOT tell them that Santa will not bring them toys if they don't talk to Santa.
4. DO be a patient with your child and know that they are just as scared as you are when you get pulled over for a traffic violation.
5. DO tell them that Santa will love them no matter what.
6. DO let our staff help out. We have been working with children at Santa for 13 plus years and one staff member has worked with children all his life as he is a retired teacher.
7. DO let your child be in control. Just like you, they do not like it when they are forced to do something. If it is their idea to come to see Santa or come closer, they will be much more likely to close the deal
8. DO get your child to do some activity that is easy for them to accomplish like waving to Santa, slapping him high fives, petting his reindeer, or touching the fur on his coat or hat. All these help to build confidence and will help get a great memory.
9. DO plan on walking by and waving several times before your child is comfortable with coming in to visit. This will help to eliminate the pressure on both of you that you have just waited in line and you don't want to do it again.
10. HAVE FUN!!! Santa and the Holidays are a fun time and you should enjoy it to the fullest. These innocent times will soon be replaced with much to serious and adult times to come. Be the kid you always wanted to be!