The art of being Santa

What would Santa be without his beard? At the "Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School" in the town of Midland in the US state of Michigan, students learn how to comb and groom their beard. Artificial beards are frowned upon. Those who aren't blessed with enough natural whiskers can turn to buffalo hair to fill in the holes.

A real Saint Nick must have a belly that can shake like a bowl full of jelly. Eating lots of gingerbread and chocolate is thus part of the preparation. Aside from the signature outfit, prospective Santas are also equipped with make-up tips in class. Kids expect merry dimples, cheeks like roses and a nose like a cherry.

While sitting with kids on your lap is one part of the job, the "Santa School" also teaches dance moves - never know what guests might ask for at the office Christmas party. Here Glenn Johnson of Woodstock, Georgia, is practicing what looks like a whip swing to get Rudolph and his fellow reindeer up into the sky.

While this picture was taken at the Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm in Clare, Michigan, the "Santa School" offers lessons in reindeer behavior as well. The animals play an important part in the holidays. According to Christmas lore, eight flying reindeer pull Santa's sleighs - nine if you include red-nosed Rudolph.

Most kids ask for iPads instead of wooden cars today. But Santa students in Michigan still learn the basics of toy making. Experts say that children's wishes get more expensive every year. Some boys and girls ask for presents adding up to a value of 15,000 dollars - per child. That will put you on the naughty list.

Always jolly, kind and patient - the true "Santa spirit" is part of the curriculum as well. In addition to such intangible matters, students also learn about Saint Nicholas, who according to European legends puts candy in children's boots on December 6, and Santa Claus, who is bringing the presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, depending on the country you live in.

Ho-ho-ho-ing just right isn't an easy task. That's why instructors also teach breathing techniques. The whole Santa course lasts three days and graduates receive a certificate at the end. These certified Santas can earn up to 50 dollars an hour. Students come from all over the world and include engineers, lawyers and teachers.