With Christmas right around the corner, it seems safe to assume that many ayoung mind is focused on Santa Claus and what goodies he may be bringing onDec. 25. Everyone is on their best behavior, minding their manners and helpfulas ever, building their case for a spot on the “Nice” list.

On Saturday, Dec. 18, Fascinate-UChildren’s Museum is hostingBreakfast With Santa Claus. It’s onemore chance to share the magic of theseason with your favorite little one. It isa tradition that the museum has been apart of for the past eight or nine years,according to Fascinate-U Children’sMuseum Marketing and DevelopmentDirector Emily Polley, and somethingthat local children look forward to withanticipation. An opportunity to scoresome face time with Santa doesn’tcome around all that often, after all.

“There are several families inthe community that have made this afamily tradition,” said Polley. “Theystart when their children are just babiesand come. Mom and Dad eat breakfastwith Santa and they have a family picture made. It is really adorable.”

Other families come and bring Grandma and Grandpa with them and makeit a special day for more than just mom and dad and junior. Families are seatedtogether and can enjoy the menu of eggs, bacon, sausage and a full pancake barthat includes toppings like gummy bears, sprinkles and whipped cream. This alltakes place upstairs in the Gilbert Theater, which is decked out in holiday stylefor their production of A Christmas Carol, adding to the feeling of Christmascheer.

Breakfast is served between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m., which gives everyone anhour to come in and take their time eating. After fi lling their tummies, the littleones get to have their picture taken with Santa.

“It is so sweet to see the toddlers come in all dressed up in their argylesweaters and fancy little dresses,”said Polley. “They are so cute and soexcited to see Santa that some of themare literally shaking with anticipation.Seeing their excitement really is myfavorite part of this event.”

Every year a craft is included inthe price of the ticket. Of course it isdifferent every time, and Polley saysthat this year the theme is mittens.Stay and play in the museumafterwards and burn off that yummybreakfast.

“We’ll stay until everyone haseaten, every picture with Santa hasbeen taken and every craft has beencompleted,” Polley said. “We want tomake this event as special as possiblefor the little ones.”

Polley noted that the museum is open to the public at 10 a.m., just like anyother Saturday.Reservations are required and they fi ll up fast. It costs $10for members and $12 for nonmembers.

To make a reservationor for more info, call Fascinate-U Children’s Museum at 829-9171 or visit ww.fascinate-u.com/events.php.