There might be some sort of misunderstanding or prank in the story. For example, someone told the kid that Santa isn't real as a joke, and the kid is so distraught that they start screaming. Christmas is often a time of high emotions, and for a child, something like that could be very upsetting.
Maybe the story has really terrifying elements like spooky monsters or sudden scares that made the kid scream.
Perhaps tell the kid an engaging Christmas story. For example, about Santa Claus coming to town. This could capture their attention and make them forget whatever was making them scream. It gives them something positive and exciting to focus on instead of whatever was bothering them.
The kid is bundled up because it's cold during Christmas time. In many Christmas stories, the setting is often in a place with a cold climate, like a small town in the snow - covered North. So to keep warm while going out to see the Christmas lights, visit Santa, or play in the snow, the kid has to be bundled up.
Because it's cold outside. The story is set during winter and Christmas time, so to keep warm, the kid has to be bundled up.
One reason could be that the kid has a vivid imagination. Scary stories often paint pictures in the mind, and a child's imagination can run wild, making them feel truly frightened and scream. Another reason might be that the kid is in an environment that enhances the scariness. For example, if it's a dark room or they are alone while listening to the story.
The reason the kid licked the pole in Christmas Story might have been a combination of youthful naivety and a desire to do something unexpected. Maybe they saw it in a movie or heard about it and wanted to give it a try, not realizing how stuck they'd get.
Maybe the kid was just being curious or acting out of childish naughtiness without really thinking about the consequences.
Maybe the elf grabs the kid to protect him from some danger or to take him on a special adventure.
You can start by hugging the kid. Physical comfort can make them feel safe immediately. Then, you can talk to them in a calm voice, telling them that it's just a story and not real.
One can hug the kid and offer gentle reassurance that it's just a story.