Spoiler alert! If your child already knows how to read, keep him away from that screen.🥰 Ever since he was born, you've known full well that one day the question of Santa's existence will arise. "At school, the grown-ups told me that Santa Claus doesn't exist: is that true, Mom?". "It's more complicated than that". And it's true, answering this simple question is often more complicated than that. With the festive season just around the corner and gift deliveries just a few days away, it's time to get to the heart of the matter: "Do you believe in Santa Claus, or don't you?
CONTENTS:- The origins of Santa Claus and the December 25th tradition
- To tell or not to tell the legend of Santa Claus: asking yourself the right questions as a parent
- 5 tips for tackling the subject of Santa Claus more calmly
The origins of Santa Claus and the December 25th tradition
The legend of the old man dressed in red probably originated in the footsteps of St. Nicholas, a 4th-century Christian bishop renowned for his generosity towards children and for performing a number of miracles. On the night of December 5 to 6, he would descend from heaven on his white donkey (or horse) and hand out sweets.
His legend gradually spread throughout Europe, finally reaching the United States in the 16th century. It was here that St. Nicholas became known as "Santa Claus".Although his name changed, the old man kept the white beard and red coat that still characterize him today.
As for reindeer, they first appeared in 1823 in a New York newspaper publication entitled " The Night Before Christmas ". The author, Clement Clarke Moore, portrayed a round, smiling old man on the night of December 24-25 , accompanied by his eight reindeer: Tornado, Dancer, Fury, Dashing, Comet, Cupid, Thunder and Lightning. They'll all be joined later by Rudolph.
Coca-Cola first used the character in its winter advertising campaign in 1931. From 1945 onwards, the Americans definitively brought with them all the magic of our present-day Christmases: a family celebration, a decorated tree and presents at its foot.
Whether or not to tell the Santa Claus legend: asking yourself the right questions as a parent
Whether it's because an older child spilled the beans at school, because grandparents' tongues have wagged or because they've heard certain information on the radio or TV, your child is having doubts. The truth is, Santa Claus might not even exist. Before anything else and before starting the discussion, quickly take stock of your own feelings.
Santa Claus doesn't exist: what was it like for you as a child?
Delve back into your childhood memories and sensations to try and better understand your child's reaction and emotions. You may find in these reminiscences the keys to a smooth, empathetic and gentle announcement.
Is the Santa Claus story just another little lie?
According to Einstein and his theory of relativity, the simultaneity of two events is relative to the observer. Clearly, everyone can perceive things differently, according to their own criteria. The myth of Santa Claus is no exception. Childhood fairy tale or sweet lie, it depends.
What are the foundations of your relationship with your child?
Here's a question that could help you answer all the others, since it questions your human sensitivity, your personal and religious beliefs, and your intimate vision of parenthood.
Will your loved ones respect your choice?
Whatever your version of Christmas magic, make sure your partner, parents, family and friends are in tune with your choice. If not, beware of heated discussions in front of the tree and slipped sentences!
5 tips for tackling the subject of Santa Claus more calmly
- Wait for the right moment. For very young children, from kindergarten up to around age 7, everyone plays Santa Claus, from the school to the after-school club, from the nanny to the Santa Claus dressed up in the street. Telling your child the truth too early, or talking to him about it before he starts to have doubts about it himself, risks putting your child in an uncomfortable position, out of step.
- Put yourself in your child's shoes. Even if you think it's time to explain that the presents under the tree are the parents' responsibility, and that no one comes down the chimney (you don't have one, by the way), you don't want to hurt his feelings. To find the right words, imagine yourself at his age and verbalize things as he would.
- Take the time to answer. Such a revelation is likely to provoke an avalanche of questions: why doesn't Santa exist? Why did you tell me this story? Who brings the presents? And the elves? And the reindeer? And the sleigh? Who are the men in red in the stores? Etc. If you're gentle and patient, you'll find it easier to answer.
- Accept your child's reaction. Sad, angry or even disappointed, he may cry, scream or sulk for a while. This is normal. Let the wave pass and resume the discussion with him, if he so wishes, when he's more ready. Does he still believe in the magic of Christmas? Let him. There's never any rush to leave your childhood dreams behind.
- Create new traditions together. How do you celebrate Christmas in your own way? Ask around. Come up with a concept for a meal, a party or unexpected guests. You could also ask your child to become a Santa Claus himself, by spoiling those around him - a great way to show off his new-found maturity.
And, if you're anxious at the mere thought of this discussion, tell yourself that there's a high probability that the other children will break the Christmas magic for you by revealing the truth!
At what age should you tell your child that Santa Claus doesn't exist?
There's no age for telling your child that Santa Claus doesn't exist. Some are ready at 5 or 6, while others can wait until 8 or 9. Watch your child and see if he begins to question the people around him or to wonder. If he does, it's a sign that he's ready to hear the truth.
How do you tell your child that Santa Claus doesn't exist?
It's important to be both honest and gentle when telling your child that Santa Claus doesn't exist. Reassure them that it's a story of kindness and generosity that has been told for centuries. This is how families pass on the spirit of Christmas.
What should I do if my child is upset or disappointed to learn that Santa Claus doesn't exist?
If your child is upset or disappointed to learn that Santa Claus doesn't exist, give him time to digest the information and make up his own mind. Reiterate that you understand, that you can talk about it now or later, and that above all, it doesn't change the beauty of the holiday season.
