It’s time to write to Santa, here’s how

The countdown to Christmas is here and there’s no doubt littlies across the region are already thinking about what they would like Santa to bring them.

Australia Post says now is the time to pen a letter to the man in red.

Sacks of letters have already started arriving at the North Pole from eager children and Australia Post says there are some key dates to ensure everyone receives a response before Santa and his elves get busy loading the sleigh for Christmas Eve.

With more than 118,000 letters received last year, Santa needs families to post their letters before December 2, while schools need to get ready a little earlier and have their letters sent by November 24.

Handy tips are available on the Australia Post website to help parents and teachers track the many letters on their journey North:

• Brainstorm – Visit Santa Mail – Australia Post (auspost.com.au) to download a handy template to get children’s ideas bubbling, with prompts for parents and teachers
• Write, draw, sing – Put pencil to paper to write your letter, or this year, to support different accessibility needs, children can even sing a song, draw a picture or send a photo outlining their wish list
• Send – We’re a long way from the North Pole! Send your letters by December 2 or by 24 November if you’re a teacher
• Track – Follow the magic with Australia Post’s Santa Mail Tracker

Australia Post Pen Pal ambassador, 14-year-old Jack Berne, says writing to Santa each year is a big part of the Christmas tradition for children, just like decorating the Christmas tree.

“If you’re hoping that Santa is going to leave a present under the tree, then he needs to know what’s on the top of your wish list. Santa loves receiving letters from all the kids around Australia but just remember, Santa is from the North Pole and doesn’t know all our quirky lingo – so if you want a new pair of bathers or thongs, try asking for a swimsuit and some flip flops,” Jack says.

“And remember to tell Santa what you’ve done this year to get on his good list – helping Mum with dinner or Dad with the barbie. Santa loves to hear about good deeds.”