Character mistake: In the scene where Kris's knowledge is being tested, he incorrectly gives the vice president of President John Quincy Adams. Kris states John Quincy Adams' vice president was Daniel D. Thompkins. That's wrong. John Quincy Adams' vice president was John C. Calhoun. Daniel D. Thompkins was the vice president under President James Monroe.
Character mistake: The sign on the shopkeeper's door reads "Closed Thanksgiving Day November 28th 1947". Thanksgiving was on November 27th in 1947.
Answer: One would presume that the orphaned girl's adoptive mother does speak Dutch, or else they wouldn't be able to communicate while the daughter is learning English. Of course, Santa Claus (or Sinterklaas, in Holland) understands all languages of the world. Here is the dialogue between Kris and the young girl, interpreted into English: Santa: "I'm glad you came." Girl: "I knew it, you are Sinterklaas." Santa: "But of course." Girl: "I knew it, I was sure that you would understand" Santa: "Of course, just tell me what you would like to have from Sinterklaas." Girl: "Nothing, I already have a lot, I only want to be with this nice lady." Santa: "Will you sing a song for me?" And then they sing a together a Dutch song about Sinterklaas.
Michael Albert