by A map reader in Wilmington asks the cost of Santa Claus Village in Lapland, what a coastal plain is, and why Delaware is the First State
A Letter to Santa from Wilmington, Delaware
Dear Santa,
Hi Santa! My name is Asher and I am 8 years old. I live in Wilmington, Delaware, in the smallest-but-mighty First State, near the bay. I love sailing and reading maps. My question is: how much does it cost to visit Santa Claus Village in Lapland? I dream of going! My geography question is: what is a coastal plain? And my social studies question is: why is Delaware called the First State? Thanks, Santa!
Love, Asher (age 8)
Santa’s Reply
Ho ho ho, hello Asher! A map reader who dreams of the far north warms my heart. The famous Santa Claus Village up in Lapland, in Finland, is generally free to enter and wander around. You can stroll the village, meet a Santa, and even step across the Arctic Circle line without a ticket. But some special adventures inside, like reindeer rides or husky sled rides, do cost money, and the prices change from year to year. So entering is usually free, while the extra fun has fees. A grown-up can check the latest before any big trip north.
Your geography question: a coastal plain
A coastal plain is a stretch of low, flat land that lies along a seacoast. Much of your own Delaware sits on a coastal plain, which is why it is so flat and close to the water, with gentle beaches and wide marshes. Coastal plains are often good for farming and are home to many birds and sea creatures. Read more at National Geographic Kids.
Your social studies question: the First State
Your own Delaware is proudly called the First State because it was the very first of the original colonies to approve the United States Constitution, long ago. By being first to say yes, Delaware helped the brand-new country begin. It may be one of the smallest states, but it earned a big and lasting place in history. Explore more at Britannica Kids.
Sail somewhere fun for me, Asher. Yours warmly from the North Pole, Santa Claus.
