Raelynn Dorn is ready to Santa at Tyler Day Nursery.

The first group of 2-year-olds came waddling into the rec room at Tyler Day Nursery, surprised to see Santa Claus sitting in a rocking chair, giving them a gentle wave. Some were a little shy and apprehensive, while others grinned from ear to ear, anxiously waving back.

“It’s funny because sometimes you think that some of those that you think won’t be scared of Santa are the ones who walk into the room and immediately grab you around your leg,” said executive director Juanita Lee.

Thanks to Tyler-Rose City Kiwanis Club, the children of Tyler Day Nursery received a visit from Santa on Wednesday, as well as gifts from the organization.

“We’ve been doing this for about 15 years… probably longer than that but it’s such a joy and delight to do this at Tyler Day Nursery,” Lee said.

Usually at the beginning of November, Lee will receive a call from someone in the Kiwanis Club requesting an enrollment list, such as how many kids are in each age group, how many boys and girls are in each to coordinate a shopping trip.

“All we provide is the building, the rocking chair for Santa and the beautiful children,” Lee said. “They do everything else.”

Tyler Day Nursery’s Program Director Patrice Allen acted as photographer, taking photos of the kids with Santa and then sending the photos to the parents.

But not all were willing to sit with Santa.

“I think it’s mostly because this is the first time a lot of the kids are seeing Santa,” Lee said. “I don’t know if it’s because of the beard or what… but some don’t get an opportunity to see him this time of year so I can understand them being afraid. But we still have some that are super excited to see him up close.”

Founded by the Tyler Council of Church Women in 1936, Tyler Day Nursery has serviced the community for 87 years as the oldest known licensed, nonprofit child care center for low-income families in the state of Texas.

“We are so grateful to Tyler-Rose City Kiwanis Club for doing this,” Lee said. “They come through every year and it’s always amazing.”

To find out more about how you can support Tyler Day Nursery, visit tylerdaynursery.org.