Dear Santa: The Series
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Dear Santa: The Series
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Letters to Santa: The Series is a documentary covering stories of the United States Postal Service answering wishes sent to Santa. The overall message of the series is the joy of giving. The "helpers" featured are volunteers from all walks of life and most of the kids ask for things for their loved ones instead of themselves in their letters. The adults interviewed on the show explain how they help Santa without ever spoiling the secrets behind his magic.Some of the items kids wish for in their letters are mentioned by name, e.g. an iPhone, PS5, LEGOS, etc. but this isn't the emphasis of the show. Young children may be affected by the people who are shown in need. It should also be noted that when the kids are explaining the lore of Santa Claus at the beginning of each episode, one mentions that "the bad kids get coal."
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What's the Story?
In the first episode of LETTERS TO SANTA: THE SERIES kids gather to write letters to Santa and give those letters to his helpers at the United States Postal Service. In every episode a few of those letters are then chosen and the wishes within are granted by good samaritans. It's explained that more than a hundred years ago Santa asked the USPS to help him read some of the letters and grant some of the wishes, especially for gifts that won't fit in a box.
Is It Any Good?
This behind-the-scenes look at the post office is interesting, as are the stories and professions highlighted on the show. Each year the USPS collects millions of letters written to Santa -- Letters to Santa: The Series documents how the wishes within a small portion of those letters are granted each year by USPS partnering with a bevy of good samaritans. It's a heartwarming holiday show that promotes kindness and generosity and parents don't have to worry about the magic of Santa being compromised, as It's explained that he has been working with USPS for over 100 years to grant wishes, especially for the type of gifts that won't fit in a box.
In the first episode there's a pediatric plastic surgeon who ended up starting a non-profit after helping one year, as well as a postal worker who created a large-scale food bank to help the community he serves. While Dear Santa certainly has its heart in the right place, there's some room for improvement. Parents will certainly appreciate the message behind the series but a slow and sometimes underwhelming narration style may leave kids bored eventually.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the people featured in Letters to Santa: The Series display compassion. Why is this an important character trait?
Do you think it's fair that "bad kids" are mentioned as getting coal in the show? Why or why not?
How does Letters to Santa: The Series make you feel when you watch it? Why?
TV Details
- Premiere date: December 22, 2022
- Network: Hulu
- Genre: Reality TV
- Character Strengths: Compassion, Empathy
- TV rating: NR
- Last updated: January 6, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
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Dr. Seuss' The Grinch
Pratfall-heavy take on holiday tale is fun, mostly gentle.
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Klaus
Santa origin story is a sweet reminder of generosity.
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Millions
A beautiful, rare family film that everyone can enjoy.
For kids who love holiday TV
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