Here are some tips on getting your kids to sit in Santas lap...

Dr. Susan McGroarty, assistant professor of psychology at Chestnut Hill College in Pennsylvania and expert in child trauma says, "Young children might be getting mixed messages when parents want them to sit on Santa's lap. Stranger fear is very common in young children and is reinforced by adults. Forcing a child to sit on Santa's lap can be very confusing - should I be scared of strangers or shouldn't I?" Here are a few tips Dr. McGroarty suggests that can make your trip to see Santa a bit cheerier:  

·         Visiting the mall a few times where your child can wave to Santa and see him from a distance can help a child gain familiarity before visiting him.

·         On these "look at Santa" visits, pair the outing with something pleasurable to the child.

·         Visit Santa at an off-peak time so the stress of waiting in line is minimized.

·         Consider having your child bring something to share with Santa or even bring a little present (like a carrot for the reindeer).

·         If a child is scared, never force the child to sit on Santa's lap. It could cause them to lose trust in their caregivers' ability to protect them.