The Santa Video Call Checklist for Parents

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A week before
The day before
15 minutes before
During the call
After the call
Bonus: if something goes wrong
Want the shorter version?
Frequently asked questions

Here is a plain checklist you can screenshot, print or copy into your notes. It is built around five moments: a week before, the day before, 15 minutes before, during the call and after. Skip anything that does not fit your family.

A live Santa video call is 10 minutes, one-on-one, on Google Meet, with a real-beard Santa in a velvet suit. A little prep goes a long way in a short window.

A week before

Confirm the booking details. Check the date and time (Pacific time) and add it to your calendar.
Gather the details for Santa. Your child's name, age, wish list and fun facts go in the booking form.
List the fun facts. A pet's name, a new skill, a favorite book, something kind they did. See fun facts to share with Santa.
Add siblings to the fun facts. Names, ages and a wish or two each, so Santa can greet them.
Talk about it. Mention casually that Santa is going to chat with them. Our guide to preparing your child for a Santa call has wording you can use.
Help with the wish list. Narrow it to a few things they care about most.
Pick the spot. Choose where your child will sit.

The day before

Find the email. After booking, the Google Meet link is emailed immediately. Locate it so you are not hunting later.
Test your device. Open your camera, check the microphone and speakers, and make sure the battery is charged or the cable is nearby.
Check your internet. If wifi is spotty in the chosen spot, move closer to the router.
Choose an outfit. Something comfortable and cozy that your child likes. See what to wear for a Santa video call.
Plan the day around the call. A nap, a snack and some quiet time beforehand help.
Decide about recording. If you want to capture your child's reaction, you can record your own side on a phone. That is entirely your choice. See record your child's Santa call reaction.

15 minutes before

Quiet the house. Turn off the television, mute notifications and close the door if you can.
Light the space. Face a window or lamp so your child is easy to see. Avoid a bright window behind them.
Bathroom and water. A quick trip and a sip.
Set the scene. Put a stuffed animal, drawing or favorite toy within reach.
Get comfortable. Seat your child where they can see the screen without squinting. Sit beside them or have them on your lap.
Open the link. Click the Meet link a couple of minutes early. No account is needed to join.
Take a breath. Your calm is contagious.
Remind them gently. Try saying: "Santa will say hello first. You can just listen if you want."

During the call

Let Santa start. He will open with a warm greeting.
Let your child lead. Give them time to answer, even if it feels like a long pause.
Stay close, stay quiet. Be there for support without answering for them.
Watch the clock lightly. The call is 10 minutes total, so if siblings are joining, let each have a turn.
Follow your child's energy. If they get shy, a wave is a win.
Keep the phone down. If you are not recording, put it away so you can enjoy it.

After the call

Say something warm. Try saying: "What was your favorite part?" and listen.
Write it down. Jot a line or two about what they said while it is fresh. It becomes a keepsake.
Draw or write a thank-you. A picture for Santa makes a nice wrap-up.
Do something cozy. Hot chocolate, a Christmas song, a story.
Keep the magic going. Mention the call at bedtime or on Christmas Eve. Our Christmas Eve call from Santa page may spark ideas.
Capture the memory. Save a drawing, a photo of the setup or the notes you wrote.

Bonus: if something goes wrong

The link does not open
Check your email for the original message and the reminder, and try another browser or device.
Your child will not talk
Smile and wait. Santa can carry the conversation.
You need to change your booking
Call 855-916-9921.

Want the shorter version?

If you remember only five things:

Book a time when your child is at their best.
Share specific fun facts.
Test your link and sound ahead of time.
Keep the room quiet.
Let your child lead.

You can see how it works or pricing any time.

Frequently asked questions

When do I get the Meet link?

It is emailed right after you book, and a reminder is sent before the call. You do not need an account to click it.

How long should I plan for?

The call itself is 10 minutes. Add a few minutes before to get settled and a little time after to chat about it.

Can my other children join?

Yes. Put their names, ages and a wish or two in the fun facts box when you book, and Santa can greet them. The call is still 10 minutes total.

Can I record the call?

You may record your own side on a phone if you choose, but that is entirely up to you.