Nisse from Denmark
In Scandinavia, gnomes have been causing Christmas mischief for centuries. In Denmark and Norway in particular, the little gnome Nisse moves into homes during Advent. His name is derived from “Niels”, the Danish word for “Saint Nicholas”. In Sweden and Finland, however, the Tomte or Tonttu house goblins are known. Fairytale creatures have always played a special role in the stories of Scandinavian authors Hans Christian Andersen, Astrid Lindgren and Selma Lagerlöf. In the case of Swedish writer Astrid Lindgren, the elves are about four inches tall and wear protruding noses and pointy hats. They’re warm and sweet, but also provocative and silly. The best known is Nisse, who lives behind a little door, “Nissedør”. The children never see the elves; they only appear at night, when everyone is sleeping. Because they are magical creatures. If a person sees them, he loses his magical power.
Letters to Secret Santa
Then, on December 1st, the gnome arrives. He lives behind a small door attached to the wall above the chair rail. Decor retailers like Tchibo and Thalia have already responded to the trend and offer their own Secret Santa door sets at all price points. They are available from around eight euros. The deluxe version with Christmas tree, ladder and rocking chair is available for just under 30 euros. On moving day, the elf presents himself with a letter written by his parents. Until December 24th he gives the children all kinds of tasks, plays pranks or asks for food because he worked hard that night. In his letters he tells the children what he experienced in the darkness. An illusion that has a very special magic on little ones.
Inspiration for parents
Advent is, of course, a particular challenge for parents. Thinking about tasks and letters for a gnome is an important factor. So here are some ideas for inspiration: For example, the gnome could ask the children to bring him materials from nature so that he can furnish his house – a good opportunity to go for a walk with the children and collect leaves or wood, which are then placed in the in front of your door. The elf wants children to learn more about him and his friends: just print a story or purchase a suitable book. The imp is dissatisfied because the children haven’t tidied up their room: as a joke, he hides his favorite doll or car at night. The elf wants to eat cookies: he wants the children to bake some for him and leave them in front of the door. And the dwarf loves Christmas trees: he asks the children to paint them for him. These are all suggestions for playing with the Secret Santa door.
Assistant to the Baby Jesus
And since the gnome is Santa Claus’s personal assistant, children must write him a Christmas wish list. He then hands it safely to baby Jesus. On Christmas Eve he disappears along with the door and only returns the following year.