Most adults have learned that compassion and generosity are their own rewards, especially when they're flooded with the good feelings that practicing the Golden Rule can cause. But sometimes parents find that they need extra help, when trying to convince their children of the benefits of kindness. For this help, some parents call on the best friend every child has-Santa Claus.



When Christmas approaches, each year, children everywhere become fixated on the possibility that Santa's Christmas Eve visit will bring them the most wonderful toys and goodies that can be had. But, as the song teaches them, there's a catch. Santa Claus knows whether children have been naughty or nice.

The holiday season is the perfect time to start teaching children that being nice and doing good things for others can be rewarding, because Santa will be impressed and extra generous, come Christmas morning. Even kids who are oblivious to their parents' desires are anxious to please St. Nick.

Teaching young children to do good deeds is a great way to start their training in kindness. Good deeds can be tasks, such as helping Mom with the laundry or dinner, or helping Dad rake the yard. Children can help around the house with chores, or simply be quiet in church, earning brownie points, as Santa regards their efforts at being nice.

But, for the Santa factor to work, parents need to be sure that they follow through with the rewards that are promised. If a child tries hard to be nice, and performs good deeds as a means to the end of pleasing Santa, then those extra toys that are expected need to be under that tree on Christmas morning.

When kids have begun to learn the value associated with their good behavior, and they experience the gratification that comes with the approval they receive from those around them, then they'll be willing to take the chance of performing good deeds for their own sake.

Ultimately, Santa's help won't be necessary, any more, as children grow into caring, compassionate adults. But Santa Claus will always be around. After all, he'll be needed to help with the next generation, right?