Santa’s Heartwarming Lesson: A Viral Moment Sparks Conversations on Consent

The internet is exploding with praise for Santa Claus, who is bringing an important message about consent to people in a heartwarming twist to the holiday season. A typical photo session turned into a lesson in setting boundaries when a 3-year-old named Adley visited Santa at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne in Miami.

Florida mom Katie Love captured the magical moment on Dec. 10 and shared it on TikTok, where it quickly gained over 1.6 million views. Adley, when asked if she wanted to sit on Santa’s lap, confidently replied with a firm “No.” Santa, in a remarkable display of understanding, praised Adley for her ability to communicate her wishes and stand up for herself.

“I said, ‘This is her body, and she’s in control of her body,’” Santa explained in the video. “I asked if she wanted to sit on my lap, and she said, ‘No,’ and I said, ‘Way to stand up for yourself.'”

He emphasized the importance of respecting personal choices, even when it comes to the beloved figure of Santa Claus. “You can’t let even Santa Claus — if Santa Claus says, ‘Do you want to sit on my lap?’ If you don’t want to, you say, ‘No!'” he added.

At home, Adley’s parents, Katie Love and Aaron Martin instill the concept of autonomy in their daughter. Adley is taught that she never has to accept unwanted hugs or kisses from anyone, including her parents. The family emphasizes choice, empowering Adley to decide how she expresses affection, even if it means a high-five instead of a hug.

“Adley knows it’s always her choice, and she can give a high-five instead,” says Love. “We don’t pressure her to have any kind of unwanted touch. When we were growing up, we were told, ‘Be polite. Sit on your weird uncle’s lap,’ and I don’t want that for my daughter.”

While some viewers commented that Adley appeared uncomfortable in the video, Love explains that it might have been linked to the anticipation of receiving a purple bike after expressing her wish to Santa. However, she points out that Adley’s smile returns as Santa reaffirms her decision and assures her that it’s perfectly okay to say no.

The viral video has touched hearts beyond social media, resonating with “The Rev Santa,” Steve Lantz, a Presbyterian minister and father of two. Lantz expresses admiration for Adley’s assertiveness and shares his approach to teaching consent to his children.

“My wife and I have a 6-year-old daughter and a 10-year-old son, and we started teaching them at a very early age that they are in control of their bodies,” says Lantz. “There are times I will ask my daughter, ‘Do you want a hug?’ And if she says ‘No,’ I honor that. I don’t push. I never ask twice.”

TikTok users have flooded the comments section with praise, applauding both Adley’s parents and Santa for their role in promoting a healthy understanding of boundaries.

“I just cried. As a child who was uncomfortable (with) touch and fam who pushed me, this is good to hear,” one person wrote.

The heartening response on social media emphasizes the significance of promoting consent and bodily autonomy from a young age, making Santa’s lesson one that extends far beyond the holiday season.