Stress
free visits with Santa Claus
by Susen Mesco, Master Santa Claus
Trainer,
Professional Santa Claus
School Conference, Denver, CO
Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at 12:37pm
This is a topic that we cover for at
least 4 hours at Professional Santa Claus School, going over 4 dozen or
more ways to make sure the child has a calm & positive experience, that the
line does not get the domino effect of fear and panic and so Santa can truly
enjoy his visits without feeling helpless due to any “freak outs” by the little
ones.
Perhaps the first and most important aspect of making sure everyone
has a good time with Santa Claus, is UNDERSTANDING the children at their unique
level of development. A Child Psychologist presents the 5 levels of growth and
thought patterns/needs of the children. Knowing what is important to a child at
their particular age, is key to Santa Claus knowing how to best respond.
For
instance, babies have the need to keep mommy’s face in view for safety. If the
baby can see mommy, things will remain calm. Alternatively, telling a 3 year
old they are a “big boy or girl” is NOT a good thing. The child will panic.
Certain age levels like to DO and SHOW, which can engage them in interaction
with you. Another age level likes to be in charge or take charge and allowing
them to make decisions is the answer. Older children, at the brink of
non-believer can be treated with dignity & respect, rather than trying to
convince them they still believe, to get a quality visit, despite their
reluctance.
Having an elf helper or Mrs. Claus
that understands the growth pattern needs of the various stages of development
is invaluable to successful orchestration of the Santa Claus visit line, whether in mall, day care or corporate setting.
Santa should attend training with
the person who will assisting him most often, so they know the routine and the
reasoning behind it.
Later this week we will talk about
other ways to help children have a quality visit… “CREATE the EXPERIENCE!” This has been our (American Events' and Pro Santa Claus School) motto since 1983!
Feel free to leave your comments and
join our discussions!
Be sure to invite your Santa friends
to subscribe to this blog for tips, ideas and ways to improve your Santa Claus
portrayal. See you in Denver this August for the 31st Annual Santa School Conference! For more details:
Susen Mesco
Master Santa Claus Trainer since
1983!
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