Lap versus letter? This is the big question about Santa. As a parent, how would one decided which to go about perusing? Or is both acceptable? I can't speak for all those twenty and thirty something adults who have children around that age group, seeing as I'm still in high school, but I have been pondering this question for quite some time now. I know some parents don't approve of handing over their child to a complete stranger, let alone allowing them to get a picture taken with him. Plus many kids are terrified of the big guy. There are most definitely pros and cons to both; but in the end, which do you prefer?
Most of the time, the kids get very little say in which way they get in contact with Santa Clause. Many parents like the tradition of getting their picture taken with the Santa in the mall, usually framing it and showing it off to the relatives. On the other hand, some parents don't feel comfortable with the mall Santa and would prefer a more distant relationship between their children and Santa. Another reason for the letters over the picture is because of the child's reaction. Seeing all those funny photos showing off Santa attempting to hold a crying baby may be fun to laugh about years later, but may be traumatizing for the kid. Ellen DeGeneres doesn't hold back when it comes showing off these wonderful screaming kids. On her talk show she does a segment called "Bad Paid For Santa Photos." These photos make some parents just skip the picture all together and stick to the letter. Better be safe than sorry.
The letter on the other hand, does have it's pros and cons as well. Writing a letter to Santa can be much less of a hassle. You don't have to dress your kids up in those cute little outfits that they will probably hate and through a fit about later. You don't have to trek all the way to the mall for your kids to scream while a nice lady is attempting to take their picture. You will save yourself from the embarrassment of your child still crying as you walk briskly out of the mall. Why put yourself through all of that when you could give the little guy a piece of paper and a pencil. Plus, if you drop off your letter in the big red mailbox in any Macy's Department Store, Macy's will donate $1 per letter to the Make A Wish Foundation. Knowing that your letter can help save lives in another incentive to write a letter to Santa. On the other hand however, many parents want their kids to face their fears and go see Santa in person instead of hiding behind a letter. It all depends on the family.
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