Happy St. Nicholas Day! Children from around the country and in other parts of the world have put out their boots in hopes of receiving special treats from St. Nick. Each year, I have helped my children write a letter to Santa telling him what they would like for Christmas. Each year, I put the letters in an envelope and tell the children that I will be mailing their letters at the post office, but instead, I tuck away that envelope in a folder in my holiday planner. And each year, I get out the previous letters to Santa and read through them and marvel at how much my children have changed. I used to write my oldest daughter’s letters for her and just let her “write” on the page after I was done. Now, she writes her own letters in a very neat, nine-year-old hand. These letters have become treasures.

The Countdown to Christmas Challenge for today is to talk to your children about Christmas traditions from other countries and cultures. There are so many rich traditions and special rituals celebrated throughout the month of December. Also, help young children write letters to Santa. Big kids can write the letters on holiday stationery to dress them up. Have your child draw a picture of Santa or of the presents they would like. Not only will it help you know what to buy for Christmas, but it is a living piece of your holiday memories.

Do you celebrate St. Nick’s Day? Visit the 100 Days to Christmas Facebook page and share your stories.