Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Tampa, FL

Happy Holidays! The first of December officially rings in the Christmas season for most families. I don't know about your kids, but my five year old is already making his Christmas list and checking it twice. He could not be more thrilled that the 25 day countdown is officially on. And now that the countdown is on, our children might be anxious to track down Santa to tell him what they want for Christmas in person. Here are some tips about meeting with Santa and a list of places your young ones can meet him locally.
 
Savvy Santa Tips

• Don't go in expecting the perfect picture. If it works out, then that's terrific. But sitting on the knee of a bearded stranger may wind up being scarier than your children initially expected. If all they do is sit there and stare, then go with it without pushing your luck. It always makes for a great story later on.
• Have them write a list with you. If they are feeling a little shy or star struck, then they can just give the list to Santa and not say anything at all.
• Try to get to your Santa as early in the morning as possible. Lines are usually shorter then and your child is refreshed and in their best spirits. Also try to avoid weekends if possible!
• If after waiting in a long line, they suddenly balk and decide not to meet with Santa, let it go. You can get plenty of other wonderful Christmas pictures without having one with Santa. Speaking as a mother with experience (whose two children only met with Santa as small babies), their trauma is just not worth it. Christmas is supposed to be fun, right?

Santa Comes to Tampa Bay

International Plaza has Santa available to meet your children, but did you know he will is available to meet with your pet too? Another fun option at International plaza is the multi-sensory Polar Bear Express experience inside of a "snow globe". You're curious now aren't you? Go check it out for yourself.

The Shops at Wiregrass have Santa meeting with young ones outside in the main common area next to the Christmas trees.  Don't forget about the Symphony in Lights held four times every evening. Plus, there is a packed schedule of holiday entertainment being offered this month.

Westfield Mall in Citrus Park also has Santa coming to town for photos with your children. He will also meet with pets here too.

Westfield Mall in Brandon has Santa meeting with children and also offers a 32 foot tall "believe tree" which gives visitors a light and snow experience.

Westfield mall in Countryside also has Santa available to meet with your children. Plus a family value photo package comes with a complimentary child's ticket to Lowry Park Zoo.

Santa will also be at the Tyrone Square mall in St. Petersburg

Maybe you are hosting one heck of a Christmas shin-dig in your home? Maybe you want to make Santa as real as possible for your child without leaving home? Well, did you know you could hire a Santa to come to you? Check out Bob Elkin's website and Tampa Santa.