Mary: Santa, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with us. Let’s dive in—how do you keep up with all the toy trends every year?

Santa Claus: Ho ho ho! It’s a lot of work, but I have a team of highly skilled elves who keep their ears to the ground. They attend consumer toy fairs, read all the top toy magazines, and even monitor social media to make sure I’m on top of the latest trends. And of course, I get a lot of direct feedback from kids about what’s hot!

Mary: Speaking of feedback, let’s talk about toy inventors. Do you have a favorite inventor that’s really caught your eye lately?

Santa Claus: Oh, I love a good inventor! The elves and I are always on the lookout for creativity. There’s one inventor who’s been working on a toy that automatically wraps itself in festive paper. It’s a real game-changer! But, if I’m being honest, the real genius is the one who invented the "never-ending" toy. I’ve had to hire extra elves just to keep up with the demand!

Mary: A never-ending toy? That sounds like magic! Now, we know you’ve been to plenty of retail stores around the world. What’s the funniest thing you’ve seen in a store lately?

Santa Claus: Oh, retail stores are a real hoot! One time I walked into a store and saw a “smart” teddy bear that could tell you stories, give weather updates, and even remind you to wear your coat. I asked it, "Where's the nearest cookie shop?" It paused for a moment and said, “I don’t know, but I’ve got a ton of snack recommendations online!” The future is here, my friend!

Mary: It seems like toys are getting more and more high-tech. Do you think traditional toys are making a comeback, or has tech taken over the toy world?

Santa Claus: Well, I’ll say this: The classics never go out of style! There’s always room for dolls, action figures, and board games. But I’ll admit, some of the new tech toys are pretty impressive. I saw a drone that plays catch with you this year, and it’s hard to beat that. But when it comes to Christmas Eve, nothing beats a wooden toy train or a good ol’ fashioned puzzle. The key is balance—tech toys for fun, and the classics for comfort and nostalgia.

Mary: Let’s talk toy fairs. What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever seen at one?

Santa Claus: Oh, the toy fairs are where the real magic happens! I remember one year, I saw a life-sized robot that could play chess, make you a cup of cocoa, and sing Christmas carols—all at the same time! It was impressive, but honestly, I think it needed a little more work on its singing. I told the inventor, "Buddy, it’s supposed to be jolly, not robotic!"

Mary: We all know you’re a big fan of cookies, but what’s your favorite toy-inspired snack?

Santa Claus: Well, there was this one year at a toy fair when I stumbled upon a cookie shaped like a toy train. It was decorated with edible glitter, and I couldn’t stop eating it! I’ve also tried some "build-your-own" gingerbread kits that have pieces shaped like building blocks and action figures. It’s like playing with your food—what’s not to love?

Mary: Now, in all the years you’ve been delivering toys, has there ever been a toy you just couldn’t get right? Maybe a "return to sender" situation?

Santa Claus: Ho ho ho! Oh yes, there have been a few hiccups. One time, I delivered a toy rocket ship that didn’t exactly "launch" as intended. It was more of a "roll off the shelf" situation. Luckily, the little boy was super understanding and just used it as a space station for his action figures! And then there was the plush unicorn with a malfunctioning horn… It was supposed to light up, but instead it flickered like a Christmas light on the fritz. We worked it out, though, and now it’s one of the most popular toys!

Mary: Santa, what advice do you have for parents looking to find the "perfect" toy this holiday season?

Santa Claus: Ah, the perfect toy—that’s the ultimate quest! My advice is simple: Think about what brings joy. Whether it’s a toy that sparks creativity, brings a sense of wonder, or helps a little one learn something new, that’s the real magic. And don’t forget the power of a well-timed surprise! Sometimes the best toy is the one they never expected.

Mary: Before we wrap up, is there a toy trend you think might catch on next year?

Santa Claus: I have a feeling 2025 is going to be the year of "interactive storytelling" toys—think toys that let kids create their own stories and adventures in real-time. Imagine a stuffed animal that’s also a storybook narrator, or a toy car that races through an adventure on your phone. It’s like combining the magic of play with the joy of creating a world of your own!

Mary: Santa, you are a true visionary. Thanks again for sharing your insights, and we wish you a very merry and smooth toy delivery season!

Santa Claus: Ho ho ho, thank you! Remember, no matter what toy you get, the most important gift is the joy of sharing and being together. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

Hope you enjoyed our whimsical interview with Santa Claus!