When children start to grow up and doubt the existence of Santa Claus, here is the best way to make them understand the truth, without offending them.
Letting children believe in Santa Claus can be a way to nourish their imagination and reinforce the magic of childhood. This belief stimulates their creativity, their ability to dream and experience moments of wonder. Through the anticipation and excitement of Christmas, they also learn patience and the concept of surprise. Some psychologists emphasize that this period of belief is not a lie, but rather a rite of passage that helps us understand the world in a fun and joyful way. However, it is also important to respect the rhythm of each child: when the question of the truth arises, it is essential to respond with kindness and explain that Santa Claus is part of a beautiful tradition that evolves with age.
In addition, it is increasingly difficult for parents to maintain some mystery in the existence of Santa Claus. The children talk a lot in the playgrounds, with their classmates, and very often one of them reveals the subterfuge to the others. On television, in films… They discover the truth earlier and earlier, and sometimes brutally. So, if you think he’s starting to have doubts, it’s better to tell him the truth before he discovers it himself, otherwise you risk coming across as the horrible lying parent.
Charity Hutchinson, an American mother, shared on her Facebook account an adorable way to explain to her children that Santa Claus does not exist. She suggested to her children, when they expressed doubts about her existence, that they too could become Santa Claus. “You have really grown this year, physically, but also in your heart. Besides, your heart is so big that I think you’re ready to become a Santa Claus! You’ve probably realized that most Santas are people in costumes, a lot of kids say that because they’re not ready to BE a Santa, you are. (….) I think the time has come to accept YOUR first Santa mission!”she suggests. The mission will then be to offer a nice attention to a friend or a little neighbor, without being seen and without revealing his secret… because a Santa Claus does not give gifts to be thanked, but out of the kindness of his heart.
By thus passing to the other side, and by putting himself in the shoes of the person whom the child has admired so much throughout his life, he passes a new stage. He is now becoming big enough compared to his little brothers and sisters, and the only one to be in confidence with mom and dad. A privileged role that he will be proud to take on by donning the Santa Claus costume and arranging the presents under the tree when everyone is in bed…
