Letter From Santa: Make Your Adopted Child Feel Extra Special

Adopting a child into the family is a huge step that changes many lives, most especially the child being adopted. Older children need to learn how to fit into their new family. The child may feel like an intruder, may lack self-confidence, and feel isolated despite being surrounded by a welcoming family.

The child needs to hear from a trusted friend that everything will be all right.

A letter from Santa Claus is just the friend he or she needs to hear from because every child knows Santa can be trusted no matter what.

Even an older child who claims not to believe in Santa will appreciate receiving a letter from him because the words of encouragement in the letter help soothe any fears the child may have, and dramatically boost a sagging morale.

If you decide to write the letter yourself then you will need the following equipment:

1. Computer and printer.

2. Good stationary-quality printer paper. Use paper printed with a Christmas theme. Office supply stores offer Christmas paper during the holidays.

3. 9” by 12” size decorative Christmas envelope. Colorful and bright! Santa doesn’t mail letters in plain white envelopes. Also, a regular larger envelope.

4. Sticky address labels. You can usually get labels that match the stationary paper.

5. Sparkly colorful confetti. You will put some of this inside the envelope so that when the child opens the envelope presto! A shower of sparkling bright “magic reindeer dust” bursts out.

6. A font appropriate to the age of the child. If your child can’t read then you can use a fancier font. Otherwise, keep it fairly simple so your child can read his or her own letter.

7. The address of the North Pole post office which is:

North Pole

Christmas Cancellation

Postmaster 5400 Mail Trail

Fairbanks, AK 99709-9999

8. The right amount of postage.

After you write the letter slide it unfolded into the Christmas envelope. Address the envelope as being from Santa Claus to the recipient. Apply enough postage to the second envelope to get it to the North Pole Post Office. Mail the larger envelope before the deadline of December 15th. The Santa letter will be given an authentic North Pole postage mark that will thrill your child.

Now, when you write the letter keep in mind you are Santa Claus writing a letter to your adopted child. Greet the child by his or her first name or nickname. Mention how proud you are of your child, any special interests or skills, and how happy you are your child has a family that loves him or her. Below is an example of how the letter might be written.

“Dear Tanya,

What a holly jolly Christmas it will be for you this year! I am so happy to hear you have become the member of a family that loves you very much. I can’t wait to deliver toys to you and your new brothers and sisters!

Your brother Robert may seem a grump sometimes. I want you to know it is because he is trying to adjust to having a new sister in the family. Adoption is a big step for everyone in the family. Be patient, and shine your beautiful smile! You and Robert will be the best of friends in no time.

Dasher and Dancer and the other reindeer are warming up for the big flight on Christmas Eve. The elves have polished Rudolph’s nose to keep it shining bright. The elves are also putting the final touches on the toys. Oh, I can smell fresh baked cookies from the kitchen! Mrs. Claus has been baking for days. What an exciting time it is for all of us here at the North Pole! Soon I will be coming down your chimney, Tanya, to deliver gifts for you and your family.

You are always in my prayers, my dear. I know you will be safe and happy and loved in your wonderful family. Don’t forget to leave a carrot or two for the reindeer Christmas Eve!

With all my love,

Santa Claus.”

Use the example above to write your letter if you wish. Be sure to personalize it for your child. Also, I suggest writing individual letters for each child in the family.

A letter from Santa Claus brings a smile to every face, no matter what age the person may be. It is a gift of love and magic and healing. Share the gift with your children and all of your loved ones.