On this page
- How Santa learns about your child
- Start with the name
- Describe your family in your own words
- Share your traditions
- Consider your child's communication style
- Consider sensory comfort
- Make the physical setup work for you
- Talking about differences in the world
- A short checklist before you book
- What if something does not go as planned?
- Frequently asked questions
Santa has a lot of room in his story, and so should every child who talks to him. Families come in many shapes. Some have two moms or two dads, a single parent, foster or adoptive parents, a blended household or a relative raising a child. Some celebrate more than one holiday, or a different tradition altogether. Some children communicate in ways that are not what a stranger might expect.
The good news is that a Santa call is built around what you tell him. This guide shows how to use the booking form to set up a conversation where your child feels seen, plus scripts for the moments that matter.
How Santa learns about your child
When you book a live Santa video call, the form asks for one child's name, age, wish list and fun facts. The "fun facts" box is the most flexible part. That is where you tell Santa the things that make your child and your family who you are. Santa is a real-beard Santa in a velvet suit, and the call is a warm 10 minute, one-on-one conversation, so the more helpful context he has, the easier it is for him to meet your child where they are.
If you are ordering a personalized video message, the same idea applies. The details you share shape the message.
Start with the name
A name is the first thing Santa says, so it matters.
Use the name your child uses
If your child goes by a nickname, a chosen name or a middle name, write that one.
Add a pronunciation note
Try something like "Saoirse (SEER-sha)" or "Xiomara (see-oh-MAH-rah)."
Include a short name for siblings
If siblings will be on the call, add their names too.
Describe your family in your own words
You do not have to explain your family to anyone, but a line or two can help Santa avoid assumptions. For example:
- "Eli lives with his two dads, Sam and Chris."
- "Priya lives with her mom and her older brother."
- "Jonah is in foster care with us and has been with our family since the summer."
- "Lena lives with her aunt and her cousins."
- "Our son splits his time between his mom's house and his dad's house."
Santa can use these details to ask warm questions like "Who is going to help you open presents?" instead of defaulting to a standard script.
If there are topics you would like to avoid, say so plainly: "Please do not ask about school pickup." Keep it simple and positive.
Consider your child's communication style
Children communicate in different ways. Some talk a lot, some use few words, some speak slowly, and some need a moment to answer. If you want Santa to be ready, share a few tips.
- "Theo is a thoughtful talker. Please give him extra time to answer."
- "Nora loves to point and show things to the camera."
- "Ava uses a speech device. We will help if she needs it."
- "Sam is nonverbal and communicates with gestures and sounds. He loves hearing about trains."
- "Isla stutters sometimes. She loves to talk about her cat, Biscuit."
The key idea is to describe your child's strengths and favorite topics first. You know your child best, and Santa can follow your lead. You are also welcome to sit right beside your child, help with the screen and speak for them if they would like that. The call is a gentle conversation, not a test.
If your child tends to go quiet at first, what Santa says to shy kids offers ideas for easing in.
Consider sensory comfort
Some children are sensitive to bright lights, loud noises or sudden changes. You can plan a setup that suits them.
- Choose a calm room with soft lighting and few distractions.
- Adjust the volume before the call so you are not fiddling with settings mid-conversation.
- Offer a comfort item, like a favorite blanket or a stuffed animal.
- Pick a time of day when your child is at their best. Weekend mornings are one of the available slots.
- Preview what will happen. Say, "A man with a white beard and a red suit will be on the screen. He will say hello and ask about your favorite things."
For more on preparing, see prepare your child for a Santa call and Santa call for kids with big feelings.
Make the physical setup work for you
Your child may need a particular position or support to feel comfortable.
- Place the screen at a height that suits your child, whether they sit in a chair, on the floor, on your lap or in a wheelchair.
- Place a light in front of the child rather than behind so Santa can see their face.
- Keep a pillow, a stool or a stand nearby so you do not have to adjust mid-call.
- Have a drink and a tissue within reach.
Nothing about the call requires a special pose. Whatever setup is comfortable is the right one.
Talking about differences in the world
Sometimes a child will ask Santa a big question, like "Do you visit every house?" or "Why doesn't my friend celebrate Christmas?" You can prepare for that in advance with a few easy answers.
- "Different families celebrate different things, and that is one of the best parts of the world."
- "Santa loves every child, and he loves hearing about what makes your family special."
- "Not everyone celebrates the same way. We celebrate this way, and our neighbors celebrate another way."
If you would like help, you can say these things yourself during the call too. A parent sitting beside the child can gently guide the conversation.
A short checklist before you book
- Write the name your child uses, with a pronunciation note if helpful
- Describe who is in your household in a sentence or two
- Mention any traditions you would like to share
- Note anything about how your child communicates best
- Name two or three favorite topics
- List any siblings who will join, with their names and ages
- Choose a time of day that suits your child
What if something does not go as planned?
Even with careful preparation, children are unpredictable. A call can be silly, short, quiet or full of giggles. All of these are fine. A wave and a smile counts as a success, and you can always change a booking by calling 855-916-9921.
If a live call does not feel right this year, a Santa video message is a lower-pressure way to take part. It is about 30 seconds, $19, and you can watch it when your child is ready.
Frequently asked questions
Can I tell Santa about my family structure?
Yes. Add a sentence or two in the fun facts box, such as who lives in your home and what your child calls each person, and Santa can use those details in the conversation.
How do I make sure Santa says my child's name correctly?
Write the name your child uses in the booking form and add a pronunciation note in parentheses, such as "Saoirse (SEER-sha)."
Can a parent help my child during the call?
Absolutely. You are welcome to sit beside your child, help with the screen and speak for them if they want. The call is a warm conversation, and you set the pace.
Do I need an account to join?
No. The Meet link is emailed right after you book, and you can click it without an account. See how it works for the steps.