Parents are turning to smart tech to prove Santa exists

24 December 2019, 08:22

Technology is increasingly replacing mince pies as a Santa detector
Technology is increasingly replacing mince pies as a Santa detector. Picture: PA
EJ Ward

By EJ Ward

The days of putting a mince pie out for Santa could be long gone as children are increasingly turning to technology to find hints

As technology becomes an increasing part of home life with voice assistants and smart devices more prevalent in homes, many parents are turning to devices to show that Father Christmas exists, according to a survey of over 1,002 parents by Hive.

Two-thirds (67%) indicated they have used technology to convince their child that Santa has stopped by, with almost a quarter (24%) using smart technology such as indoor security cameras, motion cameras and voice assistants.

Children often like to track Santa
Children often like to track Santa. Picture: PA

Seven in 10 parents of children aged five to 11 years old indicate that they have used an online Santa tracker to show his busy journey across the world delivering presents.

Meanwhile, 60% have received a special phone call with Father Christmas - provided they made it on the good list.

"Our Christmas Detectives study shows that when it comes to Father Christmas, it's clear that, seeing-is-believing, and so it's fitting that British parents are looking for innovative ways to prove he has paid a visit," said Peter Simon, managing director of Hive.

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