Christmas gifting can feel so overwhelming - I only have one child, so I can imagine what it's like with more! Long wish lists, pressure to buy more from social media, and that old “naughty or nice” narrative that never quite sits right.
At Craftly, we wanted to create something different. Something that helps children think about what they want and need… while also growing their gratitude, generosity, and self-worth.

That’s how our Mindful Santa Letter was created!
Instead of endless “I want…” lines, this letter guides children through five thoughtful categories:

🎁 1. Something I Need

This section helps children pause and reflect on what they genuinely need - something helpful, practical, or comforting.

🎁 2. Something I Want

Of course, there’s still space for the fun things!
But framing it as one special thing makes it more intentional and meaningful.

👗 3. Something to Wear

Children love choosing something that feels like them.
Whether it’s cosy pyjamas, a favourite character jumper, a dressing up outfit, it encourages mindful decision-making rather than impulse wants.

📚 4. Something to Read

One of my favourites because I just love a book (and luckily so does my 7 year old!)
This section lets children explore their curiosity - comics, chapter books, perhaps even a yoto card?

🌟 5. Something to Do

Experiences make the most magical memories.
This part of the letter inspires children to think beyond “things” and towards memories - a board game, a day out, something to learn or create.

💛 Moving Away From “Naughty or Nice”

Our Santa letter intentionally steps away from the idea that gifts are earned through behaviour.
Children don’t need to perform goodness to be deserving, they are worthy exactly as they are.

🙏 A Moment for Gratitude

We included a gentle gratitude section:
What are you grateful for this year?
It might be friends, pets, family, teachers, hobbies, or small everyday joys.
Kids often surprise us here!

🎁 A Section for Giving Back

Christmas isn’t only about receiving.
Our letter invites kids to think about:

“What can I donate that I no longer use or love?”

It’s a beautiful way to:

• make space for new gifts

• pass joy to another child

• practice generosity in an age-appropriate way

🌈 “4 Things That Make Me a Great Person (All Year Round!)”

This is one of our favourite parts.
Children reflect on their best qualities - kindness, humour, creativity, bravery, friendship, curiosity… anything!

When my 7-year-old filled his in, it became a little snapshot of how he sees himself and I could see him writing all the words i've repeated to him that year. (So it actually does sink in!)
It’s empowering, grounding, and reminds them that they are more than the gifts they ask for.

🎅 Why Our Santa Letter Is Different

• It encourages mindful gifting, instead of overwhelm

• Builds emotional awareness, gratitude, and self-esteem

• Moves away from shame-based narratives

• Helps families create calmer, more meaningful Christmas traditions

• Makes a gorgeous keepsake to look back on

Ready to get yours?

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