Q&A for How to Be a Good Santa Claus

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  • Question
    Does Santa have to have candy canes?
    Community Answer
    Not necessarily, but it's a good way to get people in the Christmas spirit!
  • Question
    Would it be a good idea if Santa met the kids at the front door before the party started?
    Community Answer
    It all depends on the situation. Very young children might feel overwhelmed by Santa's size if he is standing up when they meet him. If there is a chance the children will be frightened, it's better for Santa to be seated and have the kids come to him.
  • Question
    What should I do if the the child starts to cry in my lap?
    Community Answer
    Try shaking your knee a little bit or calling "Ho! Ho! Ho!" You could also distract them with a small toy, a silly question, a smile, or a hug. If the child continues to cry, it might be a good idea to give them back to their parents.
  • Question
    What if the kid doesn't believe me when I say that I'm the real Santa even after the candy cane?
    Community Answer
    Just keep acting the part. The child may be questioning it and needs proof.
  • Question
    What does Santa say back to the child after hearing the wish list?
    Community Answer
    "That is a wonderful Christmas list. Santa and his helpers will try their best to find a good gift for you!"
  • Question
    What if a kid proves you're not Santa?
    Community Answer
    Tell the child the same thing - that you're not the real Santa because he is busy at the North Pole making toys. You could say you are an elf or helper.
  • Question
    What presents does Santa like?
    Community Answer
    Santa likes milk and cookies more than just about anything. He'd also probably be happy if you left something for the reindeer. They like carrots.
  • Question
    How do I find jobs playing Santa?
    Community Answer
    Your best bet would be to search online for Santa job openings in your area. I would recommend starting your search in early November (or even late October).
  • Question
    Do I need to be legally checked if playing Santa Claus?
    Community Answer
    If the clients already know you then you don't, but most people do require background checks because your interacting with children.
  • Question
    How can I make a Santa costume if I don't have one?
    Community Answer
    Go to Joanne fabrics and buy red cloth and white fur. Hot glue them together and wait 24 hours. Buy a beard on ebay.
  • Question
    What do I say if they ask where my sleigh and reindeer are?
    Community Answer
    I always say they are on the roof but I sprinkled them with magic dust so you can't see them.
  • Question
    What if a child says "Santa what is my name?" when playing Santa?
    Community Answer
    Just say there are many kids' names and you can't memorize them all.
  • Question
    How do I interact with kids who are deaf?
    Manuel
    Community Answer
    Consider learning basic "Santa lines" in ASL, such as "Ho ho ho", "What do you want for Christmas?" and "Have you been a good kid this year?"
  • Question
    Why do some Santas have lights in their gloves?
    Community Answer
    The light represents the Christmas spirit running in Santa's veins; that way people can know Santa is always in a happy mood.
  • Question
    What do I do if a child urinates on me when being Santa Claus?
    Community Answer
    Hand the child back to the parents, and tell them what happened. If its messy, ask if there is another Santa costume you could change into or at least some new pants. It is likely this happens enough for there to be spare costumes and understanding people around!
  • Question
    Could you go as Mrs Claus?
    Isolde
    Top Answerer
    Yes, Mrs Claus is an option too. She would wear similar clothes and it's fine to wear a red dress, skirt or pants as Mrs Claus. You won't need the beard but perhaps make your cheeks "jolly" with some rouge on them. A nice warm cardigan could top off the look of a contented, elderly lady.
  • Question
    What do you do if a child starts poking at your privates?
    Isolde
    Top Answerer
    Distract the child quickly with a toy or a comment like "Now, now, we don't attack Santa!" - keeping the tone light and pleasant. Stand up and place the child down on the ground immediately; or, if you're already standing, then turn around to move your genital region away from the child. Call the parent over and explain that the child has been "hitting" you and needs to take some time out before coming back to see you, when the child feels calmer or just give the parent the child's gift and be done with seeing them.
  • Question
    When you are being Santa for senior citizens what adjustments do you make? Guide questions or lead songs? Does he still ask what they want for Christmas?
    Rebecca CLARK
    Community Answer
    When being Santa, treat all audiences the same. Even if they aren't kids, give them the same magical experience.
  • Question
    How can Santa interact with a child with cerebral palsy?
    Rebecca CLARK
    Community Answer
    Interact the same as you would with other guests/children, but be a bit more patient and keep checking in with the guardian.
  • Question
    Should Santa have naughty and nice lists?
    Community Answer
    No. Can you imagine finding yourself on Santa's naughty list? That could leave an emotional scar.
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