Dinner’s running late. What happens to Santa’s arrival?
The children are waiting for the last letter, but there are still plates on the table and the presents aren’t ready. You can hold the arrival. Meanwhile, a short message can explain a little stop along the way.
A few extra minutes or a break for the whole journey?
If you only need time to finish preparing the presents, hold the arrival. The rest of the journey can continue. If the whole afternoon has changed, pause the story, including new messages. Review the adjusted times before you resume.
Agree which adult will stay with the children and which will get the room ready. Sing a favourite song or look at the place cards on the table while you wait. Choose something you can finish easily. When everything’s in place, confirm that the presents are ready.
- Agree which adult will adjust the timing so everyone can tell the same story.
- Offer one short activity that can end whenever you need it to.
- Confirm the final approach only when you know you are ready.
Choose the control for the situation
| Idea | How to try it at home |
|---|---|
| A few more minutes for presents | Hold the arrival and confirm the finale later. |
| The whole day has changed | Pause the story, including new messages. |
| Ready to continue | Review and confirm the new schedule. |
| We are finished for today | End the story early. |
“One of the ribbons has come undone. I’ll stop for a moment, tie a new bow and be on my way again.”
Adapt them to the way your family talks.
If the children have had enough of the map, you can end the story early. Read the delivered letters another time.