Welcome to a special piece by Liz Brown, our talented Calendar Editor and a local parenting coach. In this insightful article, Liz blends her professional expertise and personal experience to guide parents through the delightful yet often tricky conversation about Santa.
The most frequently asked question I get this time of year as a parent coach is, “Should I tell my kids the truth about Santa?” The truth is, there is no right or wrong answer. Every family is different, and that’s perfectly okay. Whether you embrace the magic of Santa or choose to skip the tradition altogether, the goal is to make decisions that align with your values and your family’s needs.
I do have some important pointers to help you navigate either route. Let’s dive in!
“I want my kids to believe Santa is real.”
Awesome! Many of us grew up with this belief, and many of us enjoyed it! By all means, carry on the tradition with your kids if you want to. Despite some of the advice out there, I can assure you that you’re not doing your kids a disservice by letting them believe Santa is real.
One thing I encourage parents to consider is steering clear of using Santa as a manipulative tool. Phrases like “Santa won’t bring you gifts if you don’t behave” can create unnecessary pressure and fear, taking the joy out of the season. Instead, I encourage you to focus on encouraging positive behavior simply because it’s the right thing to do, not because of external rewards.
“I don’t want to lie to my kids, so I prefer to not carry on the belief that he is real.”
Fair enough! Now, who’s to say you can’t embrace Santa as a fictional character? This is actually how I personally choose to approach it with my own kids. You can embrace the magical story of Santa without pretending he’s real.
I still bake cookies with my kids and set them out with a glass of milk on Christmas Eve for Santa (or for me), my kids make a wish list or write a letter to Santa, my kids receive a “Santa” gift…you get the point. You can simply tell your kids it’s all pretend; Santa is a magical person who brings us Christmas cheer every year!
Something to keep in mind is that our kids love to use their imagination! Our kids use their imagination every day; they pretend to be a chef in the play kitchen, a mom or dad while playing with dolls, firefighters or princesses while playing dress up, etc. The spirit of Christmas can still remain, whether or not we’re being truthful about Santa.
At the end of the day, we’re parents just trying to do the best we can. ALWAYS do what you feel is best for your family. I wish you and your family a holiday season full of peace, joy, and love.
Happy Holidays,
Elizabeth Brown
@mkeparentcoach
