For hundreds of years, Santa has been a universal role model. 

The tradition of Santa has been around far longer than anyone can remember. His name was originally St. Nicholas, but over time, it was shortened to Santa Claus, with Santa meaning Saint in Dutch. 

During the holiday season, Santa plays a major role in impacting kids. Children every year look forward to going to the mall and getting their picture taken on Santa’s lap, looking for the elf on the shelf every morning and sending in their Christmas wish lists.

Some activities are newer, such as the elf on the shelf. According to Whychristmas, in 2000, the first sighting of the elf was spotted. The elves are still a continuing popular tradition all around. Some elves become mischievous inside of houses when in need for a spot to hide. Therefore, when the kids wake up, they can have fun searching for it.

The elf on the shelf got more popular over the years, gaining pet helpers that excite the kids. When the kids see the elf in sight, they tend to have better behavior. The main reason for this is because they have few, other motivations to behave.

As well as looking for the elf, children look forward to receiving gifts on Christmas day. They know that Santa has a long trip every Christmas Eve to deliver gifts. This results in families leaving out cookies and milk for Santa and carrots for the reindeer. After Santa’s arrival, the kids check to be sure the goodies they left out are gone. 

The holiday season brings happiness and joy. Santa is a very jolly and cheerful man. He can brighten up a kid’s day in just seconds with a “ho, ho, ho!” and the handing out of a candy cane, which is Santa’s favorite treat to hand out. 

Santa has a positive influence on children to behave. A child’s bad behavior is frowned upon by Santa, so he encourages kids to be good in order to receive presents. Children believe that if they are not well behaved, they will receive coal instead of presents.

Surprisingly, it’s not just the holiday season-Santa threat that is used. All year round parents can use the “Santa card.” If children believe that Santa is always watching, they can readjust their behavior and actions.

If kids can believe in the Christmas spirit of Santa, they can believe in themselves. With the worldwide lack of confidence, Santa helps boosts spirts.