How to Make Your Toddler Comfortable with Santa Claus

Twas the Time to Meet Santa

And the little one was scared;

No joy would be given

No tears would be spared.

The jolly old elf was sitting square on his throne

While the wee one prepared an epic tantrum to be thrown.

Santa was in lockstep with the little one’s discomfort;

The parent’s ideal photo was about to fall short.

St. Nick knew from experience that things would go bad

When a toddler is unhappy and felt they’d been had.

“I don’t want a kicking child on my knee;

It’s not fair to them and it’s not fair to me.

I know you want that photo, that perfect picture of joy

To show to your family and friends and paperboy.”

Santa knew it was important to think of future years, 

Better to play the long game, where the visit could be dear.

When a child is upset and too young to understand,

Don’t force them to sit on the lap of a strange man.

If they have a bad experience, each year after will be tough;

But if you go at their pace, the results will be good stuff.

They will not remember the crying and all of the fear;

They will remember the beginning of the magic of the year.

And when they are ready to meet the jolly old elf

They will excitedly greet him with their brave little self.

You will capture the photos and memories all deserve;

You will share stories of your child’s delight and that of their great nerve.

So listen to your child and follow all their cues;

And don’t think not getting that photo is the blues.

Soon enough the season will fill them with great joy

Memories and photos for each girl and boy.