Handling questions about Santa Claus as a substitute teacher.

Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, or the Easter Bunny. As a substitute teacher, paraeducator, tutor, or support staff, these topics can be especially tricky when working with younger students.  

What should you say if a student asks about Santa Claus? You certainly don’t want to be Ebenezer Scrooge or the Grinch. Believe it or not, school districts have policies about how to tackle this type of question. Violating the policy can be grounds for dismissal. 

You are a role model. 

Always remember that your fundamental substitute teacher duties are to supervise students, deliver a lesson plan, and maintain a healthy classroom environment.  

Because students are naturally inquisitive, questions about faith or tradition may pop up. However, they are best handled at home. Avoiding controversial topics will save you from potentially hearing from parents or administrators. 

Neither confirm nor deny. 

If a student raises the topic, remain neutral. School employees should not confirm or reject the existence of a cultural or religious figure.  

• Avoid the temptation to give a yes or no answer.  

• Give the question as little attention as possible.  

• Avoid the discussion by pivoting to return to the lesson.  

By quickly, albeit gently, redirecting the class, you can prevent lost learning time and ensure the lesson plan doesn’t start a debate over elves and reindeer. 

Don’t assume the magic is over. 

A recent study suggests most students will begin to have questions around age eight. But that’s not always the case. Some hold out hope until middle school. Don’t assume your class is too old to believe. 

Honor family traditions. 

Many families do not celebrate Christmas, so there are likely several students who have never believed in Santa Claus. The same logic applies to students who practice different faiths. Every individual is entitled to their own belief system. 

If a student asks you if Santa Claus (or the Easter Bunny, God, etc.) is real, encourage them to ask their parents instead.  

• “That’s a good question to ask your parents. Now, let’s get back to our original topic.”  

Remember to always turn the conversation back to the lesson plan or learning at hand. 

Stick to the lesson plan. 

As the teacher, you want to role model curiosity and celebrate diverse cultural traditions. If students ask about your beliefs or your holiday traditions, don’t take the bait. Thank them for their curiosity and redirect the conversation to get the lesson back on track. 

 A sensitive, neutral approach that validates the student’s curiosity, while avoiding your personal beliefs and opinions, is most appropriate. 

Grow your skills as a substitute teacher with Kelly Education.

If you’re looking for other ways to improve your practice, check out our library of articles, including:

• • Instructional strategies for substitute teachers 
  • Understanding social media policies
  • Classroom management for substitute teachers

If you’d like to make a difference as a substitute teacher, we’d love to talk to you. We’re proud to provide comprehensive training that sets you up for success on your first day in the classroom and beyond. Fill out our interest form to talk to a recruiter about substitute teaching jobs with one of our school district partners. 

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