A letter from Santa is one of the simplest, cheapest bits of Christmas magic you can create, and kids remember them for years. The difference between a nice letter and an unforgettable one? Specific details only Santa could know.
What to include in a letter from Santa
- Their name, big and early. "Ho ho ho, Mia!" beats "Dear child".
- Something kind they really did this year. Helping a sibling, sharing at kinder, being brave at the dentist.
- A new skill or milestone. Learning to swim, riding without training wheels, reading their first chapter book.
- Something they're working on, said gently and encouragingly: "The elves tell me you're getting better at waiting your turn. Keep going!"
- A North Pole detail. Rudolph practising his flying, the elves arguing over the biggest carrot, Mrs Claus's cookies.
- A little 'rule' for Christmas Eve. Go to sleep early, leave a snack, help set the table.
- A warm sign-off. "With love and Christmas cheer, Santa Claus."
Sample wording by age
Toddlers & preschoolers (2-5)
"Ho ho ho, Leo! The elves told me you learned to put your shoes on all by yourself this year. Wow! Rudolph says hello. Remember to go to sleep on Christmas Eve so I can visit. Love, Santa." Keep it short and read it aloud together.
Big kids (6-9)
"Dear Ava, I have been reading my Nice List by the fire, and I smiled when I reached your name. The elves told me how you helped your little brother when he was sad. That was a wonderful thing to do…" Add one or two specific memories from their year.
Tweens (10+)
If they're still believing (or playing along for siblings), make it warmer and a bit funny, and focus on character: kindness, effort and being a great big brother or sister.
Make it look official
- Print on thick cream paper, or 'age' it by dabbing with a cooled teabag.
- Add a Nice List certificate with their name on it.
- Use a North Pole address and a 'wax seal' sticker.
- Write the envelope in fancy writing (or disguise yours!).
5 magical ways to deliver it
- Inside the Christmas Eve box with new pyjamas
- Tucked into the tree with a jingle bell
- Left on the empty cookie plate on Christmas morning, with a 'thanks for the treats' note
- Sent by 'reindeer post' with a sprinkle of glitter in the envelope
- Hidden with the Elf, if you have one
Short on time?
Our Letter from Santa & Nice List Pack has 3 beautifully designed Santa letters with fill-in lines for your child's details, an Official Nice List certificate, a report card, North Pole delivery labels, gift tags and a 'thanks for the treats' note. Personalise it in 5 minutes and print at home. For more December magic, try our 25 screen-free Christmas activities.