Christmas is getting closer and the anticipation is growing. From
dollhouses to
workbenches to
play kitchens – the list of children’s wishes is long. Creating a wish list is a fixed ritual in many families and part of the preparations during Advent. Before the little ones write a Christmas wish list, it’s important to think about a few things in advance. We’ll share some important tips to make this special experience memorable for a long time.
The History of the Wish List
The wish list has a long tradition. As early as 1800, children wrote Christmas letters to thank their parents for their upbringing. The cards showed pictures of the baby Jesus in the manger or other Christian motifs. With the rise of the toy industry in the 19th century, the images and text content shifted toward a commercial direction.
To boost sales, toy manufacturers and department stores issued pre-printed wish lists where children only had to check off their wishes. Unfortunately, even today, the wish lists of little ones mainly contain material things.
How to Write a Christmas Wish List
The Right Time
To give Santa Claus or the Christ Child enough time to get the gifts, it’s best to write the wish list at the beginning of Advent. On a shared afternoon, the family can sit together in a relaxed atmosphere and write the Christmas wish list. Homemade cookies, children’s punch, and Christmas songs add to the festive mood.
Designing the Wish List
Whether written, drawn, or crafted – when designing the wish list, children can let their creativity run free. Elegant stationery, colorful paints, hand-drawn pictures, or Christmas stickers give the wish list a special shine. At the same time, the little ones can learn what belongs in a proper letter. From stamps to greetings to a personal signature – there are many things to consider when writing.
Children’s Wishes
Think together with your children in advance about what should be on the list. It’s important to ensure that in the end, the children’s wishes—and not the parents’—are on the paper. To avoid disappointments on Christmas Eve, clarify beforehand with the children that not all dreams will come true. Christmas is still a celebration of love and peace. By reading stories about disadvantaged people, children learn to show compassion and to think of others when making their wishes.
Sending the Wish List
Traditionally, many children believe that the Christ Child or Santa Claus brings the gifts. To make sure the wish list reaches the right address, there are various options. If the letter is picked up personally, children can, for example, place it on the windowsill or slip it between the door before going to bed. If the lovingly crafted Christmas mail is gone the next morning, children’s eyes will surely light up. For many years, Deutsche Post has offered a special
service for its little Christmas customers. Letters from all over the world can be sent to seven different addresses addressed to the Christ Child, Santa Claus, or St. Nicholas. The letters then arrive at the Christmas post office and are answered by volunteers with a personal message.
Gift Ideas from howa
In addition to the gift ideas on the wish list, small
surprises add extra fun and joy when unwrapping presents under the Christmas tree. Are you still looking for a suitable idea for your little ones? Then we have just the right thing for you:
howa offers plenty of
wooden toys in modern designs with many loving details. Suitable for every age, there are products that invite play and also promote the imagination and development of little explorers. This way, parents can choose the ideal toy adapted to the
abilities of their child and create new challenges again and again.
Image rights: © iStock / kajakiki
