Here are some pointers for would-be Kris Kringles from Volunteers of America’s Santa teacher John Galbo:

• Start by putting on the shoes, not the jacket. “Once you put the jacket on, you’ll realize why you start with the pants and the boots. Because you can’t bend over,” Galbo says.

• Laugh uproariously — because of the white whiskers, one can’t tell if Santa is smiling.

• No smoking or drinking while in the suit.

• No texting or talking on the phone.

• Go light on the garlic, raw onions and sardines.

• Never promise any child will receive a specific gift.

• Don’t try to go down a chimney — even if there are cookies and milk waiting.