Elf-Approved Tips for Kids (and Adults!) to Stay Jolly Year-Round
Ah, the Nice List—the most sought-after destination in the North Pole, the VIP list to end all VIP lists. Everyone wants to make it onto the Nice List, but what’s the secret to staying there all year long? Is it about being perfect? Nope! The truth is, staying on the Nice List is all about spreading kindness, showing some holiday spirit, and—yes—maybe even leaving out a few extra cookies. Wondering how you can keep your spot? Grab a hot cocoa (or something sparkling), because we’ve got the elf-approved guide to staying on Santa’s good side, no matter the season!
1. Random Acts of Kindness: Little Deeds, Big Impact
You don’t need to wait until the holidays to earn your way onto the Nice List! Santa loves when kids (and grown-ups!) spread kindness in unexpected places. Maybe you help your sibling with their homework or give your neighbor a hand with their groceries. It’s those little acts of kindness that truly count. So, think of it like this: the more goodness you sprinkle around, the higher you climb on the Nice List!
2. Leave Extra Cookies (Santa Appreciates a Snack Stash)
This one’s tried-and-true, and let’s face it: Santa never says no to cookies. But there’s an extra little magic behind leaving out a few more than usual. When you bake cookies with love (and a touch of sprinkle magic), it warms Santa’s heart—and the elves, too. They’ll notice your thoughtful gesture and give you an extra little “thank you” with a boost up the list. Just don’t forget the milk (or a little extra cheer)!
3. Do the Dance of Kindness (A Jolly Jig Goes a Long Way)
When in doubt, break out into a little dance! It doesn’t need to be fancy—just a little twirl or a goofy hop will do the trick. Not only will it put a smile on your face, but a spontaneous jig of joy can spread a lot of holiday cheer, whether you’re at home, at school, or at the grocery store. Plus, the elves always tell us that when they dance, the magic multiplies. So, dance your way to the Nice List!
4. Forgive the Small Mistakes (Everyone Needs a Little Grace)
Everyone makes mistakes—even Santa! So, when you accidentally knock over the Christmas tree or forget to finish your chores, don’t stress! What matters is how you handle it. The true Nice List winners are those who forgive others (and themselves) with grace. If someone makes a mistake, give them a hug or a kind word. Show that you’re ready to learn and grow—Santa loves that!
5. Help Others: It’s the Magic of Giving
Santa doesn’t just look at how you behave—he notices if you’re kind to others, too! Whether you’re helping a friend with their homework, sharing your toys, or pitching in when your parents need help around the house, being helpful goes a long way. The elves often say that Santa’s sleigh runs on goodwill, so the more good you put out into the world, the faster you’re zooming toward the Nice List!
6. Wear Your Sparkles (It’s More Than Just Fashion)
Okay, okay—you don’t have to wear tinsel all the time (unless you really want to), but wearing your sparkles—whether it’s a twinkling smile, a kind word, or a shiny new holiday sweater—is a surefire way to spread cheer. When you show a little holiday spirit, it’s like sending a wave of magic across the world. Santa can feel that sparkle from miles away, and guess what? It’s definitely Nice List material.
7. Be Grateful: Thankfulness is the Best Gift
Santa loves a grateful heart. It’s all about saying “thank you” when you receive a gift, acknowledging the little joys in your life, and showing appreciation for those around you. Not only does it make others feel warm and fuzzy inside, but it also shows you have a heart full of holiday cheer (even in July!). Gratitude is the secret ingredient that keeps your name on the Nice List all year.
8. Dream Big, and Don’t Forget to Share Your Wishes
Whether it’s a wish for the best toy ever or a hope for someone else to have a magical day, Santa loves when you dream big. And don’t keep those dreams to yourself—share them! A wish with kindness attached has extra power. So, talk about your goals, your hopes, and your good intentions. Santa’s listening—he’s got his ear to the ground when it comes to the biggest dreams of the season.
9. Laughter is the Best Kind of Magic
Did you know that laughter is pure magic in Santa’s world? It’s contagious, and it fills the air with joy, warmth, and excitement. Whether it’s telling a silly joke, watching a funny holiday movie, or playing in the snow, laughter spreads festive cheer like nothing else. It’s a surefire way to stay on Santa’s radar as a top Nice Lister—because who could resist a kid with a giggle in their heart?
10. Say Sorry When You Need To (No One’s Perfect)
The best part about staying on the Nice List? It’s not about being perfect. We all slip up from time to time, and that’s okay! What matters is that you own up to your mistakes, apologize when needed, and promise to try again. When you’re brave enough to say “sorry” and make things right, Santa knows your heart is in the right place. And that’s what counts the most.
So, What’s the Secret?
It’s not about being perfect or following a set of rules—it’s about having a good heart, spreading holiday joy, and remembering that kindness is the magic that makes the world twinkle. Whether it’s through a small act of generosity, a heartfelt apology, or just a big belly laugh, you can stay on the Nice List all year long.
And remember—there’s no better time to start than right now. So go ahead, leave out those extra cookies, dance around your house, and spread a little sparkle wherever you go. Santa’s got his eye on you, and with these tips, you’ll be at the top of his list before you know it!
