St. Nicholas Is known as many different names. But the popular name that St. Nick is reffered to is, the very popular Santa Claus. He also brings children presents over night, but most specifically on Christmas Eve. The reason that St. Nicholas has been commonly identified as Santa Claus by young children for a couple of different reasons. 1 reason is that st. Nicholas gave children presents of money, at night. Santa Claus also give children presents at the night. Another reason is because St. Nicholas showed children lots of compassion towards children. Santa Claus also shows lots of respect and love towards children, as he brings them presents.