Santa Letters

Writing Letters to Santa

Why have your kids write Santa letters? First, it is fun! Sitting down with some cookies, cocoa and Christmas-styled stationery to draft a missive to the jolly old elf can be one of the most magical things you do during the holiday season. Get the whole family together, gather up some catalogs for inspiration and make writing your letters a special event.

Second, it is an opportunity to find out what your children really want for Christmas. You can teach them to prioritize and discuss how they may not get everything on their Christmas wish lists. This is the perfect time to explain that Santa might not really be able to bring a unicorn since he knows your neighborhood isn't zoned for wild animals and since you don't have a good local supplier of magical creature chow.

Finally, writing Santa letters is a great way to practice handwriting, grammar and the proper formats to use when writing and addressing correspondence. If you are mailing your letter, remember not to enclose any "extras" since items like candy, toys and other bulky objects can slow down mail sorting equipment.

Getting Letters from Santa

In recent years, a newer Santa Letter trend has emerged. Parents can provide some basic information and for a small fee, their children will receive a personalized letter "from Santa." Of course, you can always get creative and craft your own. You can find a sample to inspire you at creative holiday letters.

While these letters may seem silly to adults, they are pure magic for the child who receives one. Some companies that provide this service are:

• Santa Mail
• Greetings from Santa
• Santa's Magic Letters

Getting a North Pole Postmark

Of course, you want a letter from Santa to have the appropriate postmark, especially if your children are old enough to read. It is not that difficult to get. According to the U.S. Postal Service's web site, to get a North Pole, postmark on your letter, enclose it inside a larger, properly stamped First Class (or Priority Mail) envelope and send it to:

North Pole Christmas Cancellation

Postmaster

North Pole Branch U.S. Post Office

5400 Mail Trail

Fairbanks AK 99709-9998

Make sure your Santa letter has the appropriate postage and when you send it, allow time for it to arrive in Alaska prior to December 15th. This will ensure your letter can be processed and sent to the final destination prior to Christmas Eve.

U.S. Post Office Santa Program

While there are no guarantees, many charitable organizations around the United States receive Santa letters from the postal service and use them to grant children's wishes. For over 90 years children who have sent letters to Santa have gotten their presents from good-hearted philanthropists. New York City's postal service has one of the best known Santa fulfillment programs.

Of course, to have a chance at being chosen, a Santa letter must be legible and have a clear return address. No, Virginia, you aren't likely to get a Ferrarri this way, but many children in need have received coats, sweaters and toys this way.

Whatever way you incorporate Santa letters into your Christmas celebration, remember to embrace the magic and joy that Santa Claus embodies!!!