How to write a letter from Santa (with examples)

The short answer

A good letter from Santa is short and personal. Use the child's name, mention one real thing they did this year, say something about the reindeer or the elves, and end with a gentle wish. Write it on special paper, in a hand or font that is not yours, and sign it "Santa" or "S.C."

What to include

  1. The child's name at the top, and once more in the letter.
  2. One real detail from this year. A new school, a lost tooth, a kind thing they did for a sibling.
  3. A word about the North Pole. The reindeer are practising, the elves are busy, Mrs. Claus is baking.
  4. A thank-you for their letter, or for the cookies last year.
  5. A gentle wish for the year ahead. Keep it kind, not a lecture.
  6. A signature. "Santa", "S.C." or "Father Christmas", with a small drawing of a star or a reindeer.

Three short examples

For a young child (3 to 5)

Dear Lily, The elves told me you learned to ride your bike this year. Well done! Rudolph is very proud of you too. I got your letter about the pink scooter. Be good for Mummy and Daddy, and go to bed early on Christmas Eve. Love, Santa

For a school-age child (6 to 8)

Dear Max, I saw how you helped your little sister when she was sad at the park. That is exactly the kind of thing that puts a name on my Nice List. The reindeer are in training, and Comet is the fastest this year. Keep reading those dinosaur books. I like the one about the T. rex best. See you on Christmas Eve, S.C.

For a child who is starting to ask questions

Dear Ava, I know you have been wondering about me. That is a good thing. Curious minds make the best elves. Here is a secret: the magic of Christmas lives in people who keep believing in kindness. I think you are one of them. Merry Christmas, Santa

Make it look real

  • Special paper. Parchment, red or gold paper, or a printed North Pole letterhead.
  • Not your handwriting. Use your other hand, all capital letters, or a fancy font.
  • Gold or red ink. It looks different from a normal pen.
  • A North Pole postmark. Draw a stamp, or add a sticker.
  • A clue. A dusting of glitter, a small jingle bell, or a reindeer hair (a strand of brown yarn).

When to deliver it

Free official replies

Some postal services answer letters to Santa for free. Canada Post replies to letters sent to Santa Claus, North Pole, H0H 0H0. Royal Mail in the UK replies to letters sent to Santa's Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. Check the posting dates each year, because they close in early December.

Questions

What should a letter from Santa say?

Use the child's name, mention one real thing they did this year, say something about the reindeer or elves, thank them, and end with a kind wish.

How long should a letter from Santa be?

Short. Five to eight sentences is enough. Young children like a few big words and a drawing.

How do I make Santa's handwriting look different from mine?

Write with your other hand, use all capital letters, or print the letter in a fancy font. Gold or red ink also helps.

Santa Stopped By. Coming this Christmas.