Monday, February 16, 2026
39.0°F

Dear Santa ....

CHLOE COCHRAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 2 months AGO
by CHLOE COCHRAN
| December 17, 2025 1:00 AM

There’s still time to help your children write letters to jolly Saint Nicholas for the holiday season. Whether you’re practicing gratitude this season or your household is just in the Christmas spirit, we’ve provided some magical tips to make your child’s letter to Santa extra special.  

Make the time memorable with your little ones by setting the stage for your activity. Somewhere free of screens and distractions, make hot cocoa, put on soft holiday music and sit together with anyone wanting to write to Santa. Cozy blankets and festive pajamas aren’t necessary, but it may be a bonus step that kids will thoroughly enjoy.  

When beginning your letter to Santa, start the letter with gratitude — thank Santa (or whoever the gift-givers are in your family) for last year’s gifts. Then encourage them to share something they’re proud of, whether they helped a sibling, volunteered in their classroom or became fluent readers.  

Now it’s time to create a wish list to “deliver” to Santa. If your children are unsure what to ask for, encourage them to wish for something to read, something to wear and something to play with. This limits their wish list, showing moderation without putting gifts as the main event this holiday season.  

Have them include a question or two at the end of the letter to allow Santa the opportunity to write back. 

Keep in mind, some kids aren’t interested in writing a letter, and that’s OK! Santa can understand drawings, too.  

Address letters to 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888 

__________________________________________ 


PARENTS ONLY:  

Due to the nearness of Christmas, letters sent to the above address will not be returned in time for Christmas and may not receive a response. If your child is eager for a Santa response, we encourage some good-ole-fashioned sneaking around to respond to the letter. Bonus points if you use glitter or any other decor that will forever be stuck in your carpet.  

ARTICLES BY CHLOE COCHRAN

Zoning commission denies proposed marina expansion
February 14, 2026 1 a.m.

Zoning commission denies proposed marina expansion

After a six-and-a-half-hour meeting, the Bonner County zoning commission unanimously denied a conditional use permit to expand a commercial marina off Lakeshore Drive in Sagle.

Solid Waste reports slow sites, increased phone calls
February 13, 2026 1 a.m.

Solid Waste reports slow sites, increased phone calls

During Bonner County's solid waste department update, officials noted a continued uptick in calls from residents following last year’s sticker and fee increase, even as overall waste tonnage declines.

County approves facilities updates, bridge design contract
February 14, 2026 1 a.m.

County approves facilities updates, bridge design contract

Bonner County commissioners accepted several agenda items for county infrastructure improvements during Tuesday’s business meeting, including approving safety updates and a bridge design contract.