Every year around the holidays, Santas start popping up everywhere. You see them in malls, at community events, in parades, and at private parties. Most of us assume anyone with a red suit and a white beard can be Santa Claus. But there is something many people do not realize. There are actual Santa schools where people go to learn how to be Santa.
It may sound humorous at first, but the history behind Santa schools is surprisingly meaningful. These schools exist to protect the magic of Christmas and to make sure every child has a warm and memorable experience.
From Department Stores to Dedicated Training
The idea of a professional Santa is more modern than many people expect. In the early twentieth century, department stores began hiring Santas so children could share their Christmas wishes in person. While the idea was popular, the execution was often lacking. Costumes were cheap, beards were unconvincing, and many Santas had little idea how to interact with children.
The role was treated as a seasonal job rather than something that carried responsibility. That all began to change when one man decided Santa deserved better.
The Man Who Took Santa Seriously
In the nineteen thirties, Charles W. Howard noticed how inconsistent and unpolished many Santas were. He believed that Santa Claus should represent kindness, patience, and joy, not just appearance. Howard had experience portraying Santa himself and understood the emotional impact the role could have on children.
He opened a small Santa school in his own home and began teaching others how to properly portray Santa Claus. Students learned how to speak, how to move, how to listen, and how to create a comforting presence. Lessons included grooming, costume quality, voice control, and handling shy or emotional children. Howard even included instruction on reindeer basics to make the experience feel authentic.
A Holiday Tradition Takes Root
Howard’s approach worked. His school grew, and his reputation followed. He became one of the most recognized Santas in the country and played a major role in shaping the modern image of Santa Claus. After his passing, the school continued and expanded, becoming one of the most respected Santa training programs in the nation.
Other Santa schools soon followed. Over time, these programs evolved into full training experiences. Modern Santa schools now teach a wide range of skills that go far beyond wearing a costume.
What Santa Schools Teach Today
Today’s Santa schools focus on professionalism and compassion. Training often includes how to work with children of all ages, how to communicate with families, and how to manage busy holiday events. Many programs also teach public speaking, performance techniques, and business skills for those who make Santa appearances part of their seasonal work.
Most importantly, Santas are taught how to listen. Children often share more than gift requests. They share hopes, fears, and sometimes difficult emotions. A trained Santa knows how to respond with care and kindness.
Why Santa Schools Still Matter
Santa schools exist for one simple reason. The moment a child believes in Santa is special. It deserves care and respect. These schools help ensure that each visit with Santa is not rushed, awkward, or disappointing, but warm and joyful instead.
In communities like Crystal Beach, holiday traditions are about connection. They are about slowing down and sharing moments together. When Santa shows up at a local event, he is not just part of the decoration. He is part of the memory.
So the next time you see Santa greeting families during the holidays, remember there is more behind the beard than you might think. There is training, dedication, and a genuine desire to bring a little more joy into the season.
