St. Nicholas’ Golden Book knows about all children’s good and bad deeds. To make sure the St. Nicholas celebration is a success, however, you should follow a few rules when designing the book.
St. Nicholas’ Golden Book: What to include
When St. Nicholas comes to visit, he traditionally brings a golden book with him. Before handing out gifts, he reads from this book and highlights the children’s characteristics. But when it comes to the entries, it’s okay to let some things slide.
- In the past, St. Nicholas often listed a child’s good and bad deeds. However, this often ended in tears and a rod. To ensure that the St. Nicholas celebration is a wonderful experience, you should pay attention to how the entries in St. Nicholas’ book are worded.
- Start with the child’s positive character traits and strengths. St. Nicholas should praise what the child does particularly well. For example: “You manage to get dressed all by yourself every morning and you always help your parents set the table!” or “You are a creative child and can spend hours coloring—I really like that!”
- In order not to instill fear of St. Nicholas or even spoil the holiday, you should refrain from scolding and reprimanding—this is not the right occasion for that. Criticism of the child should be expressed through wishes and encouragement. “I’ve heard that you don’t like brushing your teeth. I would be happy if that worked out better in the future. Can we do that?” or “My friend, the pacifier fairy, wrote to me that she is eagerly waiting for your pacifier. What do you think about giving it to her soon?“
How parents create the entry for the St. Nicholas book
Of course, parents prepare the information for St. Nicholas’ Golden Book so that St. Nicholas is ”omniscient” and knows everything about the children.
- Write the entries for the St. Nicholas book on a computer on an A4 sheet of paper in landscape format and then print out the cheat sheet so that St. Nicholas can put it in his book. Make sure the font size is legible.
- If several children are attending the St. Nicholas celebration, it makes sense to divide the sheet into columns. On the left-hand side, list the child’s name, age, and distinguishing features, and on the right-hand side, collect praise and wishes.
- If your children want to sing a song or recite a poem for St. Nicholas, you can make a note of this on the slip of paper for the Golden Book. This way, St. Nicholas will know immediately which child can interact with him.
Where does the tradition of St. Nicholas’ golden book come from?
Although the exact origin of this tradition is difficult to trace, it has become established in various cultures over time and has become a popular element of Christmas preparations.
- The golden book adds to the anticipation and excitement for children as they wait to see whether St. Nicholas will classify them as “good” or “bad.”
- It is important to note that local variations of this tradition may have developed, and the concept of the golden book may have different nuances depending on the region.
- You are not bound by fixed rules or traditions when it comes to your personal golden book. Feel free to personalize it.
