Top Tips on how to be an awesome Santa

Being Santa is a very special job – and it requires a lot of skill. It is not a job that anyone can do. You have a reputation and image that has to be met.

Preparing your Santa role

Think about what children expect. Kids are very observant and will notice if you make a mistake. They will also point out those mistakes in very loud voices!

Brush up on your knowledge of North Pole characters such as the names of the reindeer and be ready with some chat about them.

Appearance

You don’t have to be huge in appearance, so don’t pack your costume with padding. Make sure your costume is correct and of good quality. You don’t want it to fall apart while you are working. Make sure your breath doesn’t smell of smoke or alcohol.

Timing

Be on time. Arrange with the hosts as to when you should arrive, and how long you should stay. Remember that kids need to calm down before bedtime, so a late evening visit is not a good idea.

First impressions count

Co-ordinate with your hosts as to when you arrive. Find out who is attending, especially little details such as a birthday child or what the children want for Christmas. Have the right amount of presents to hand out – preferably with a couple or three generic ones which might suit any child in case an extra child arrives.

Come unannounced – a knock at the door when the kids are least expecting it will be more fun than if they have been expecting you for ages.

Make sure there is a photographer at hand to take some pictures. This will make the occasion more memorable, and keep the illusion of Santa really appearing in their house alive.

Some Santa do’s and don’ts

• Never be alone with the children. Always make sure that there are other adults in the room.
• Don’t ask children to sit on your lap. Let them stand beside you or near you.
• Be prepared for awkward questions and have some simple answers ready such as why you haven’t brought Rudolph with you, or why you cannot provide expensive computers.
• Simple answers like “The Elves haven’t finished everything yet, so I’m not sure’. A quick glance at parents can often provide indications for example a nod or a shake of the head allowing to respond appropriately.

Santa Training School

Hire a Santa is part of the Envisage Agency Group. They run Santa Training Schools around the UK. To find out more complete our contact form or click here to send us an email.