We have a wonderful guest post today from Christine Keys! This topic is something I struggle with a bit. I like the idea of teaching Caroline about Santa and having the magic of Christmas... but when I say it out loud, I'm lying not teaching. And I hate that. I never want to lie to my children. And so, we're not going to. We may have fun with the idea of Santa, but we aren't going to act like Santa is real...
Feel uncomfortable about leading your children to believe in something that isn't real? You're not alone. However, I know there are a lot of parents that are stuck. They don't want to lie to their children about the existence of Santa but still want to keep the magic of Christmas alive.
Well, it isn't as difficult as you might think. I should know. We were never brought up to think that Santa was real, but Christmas was (and still is!) the most magical time of the year for me. So, here are some ways to help you get started:
Set Fun Traditions
Whether it's driving around to view Christmas lights, or piling on the couch to watch festive movies, it doesn't really matter. Make some special family traditions and enjoy them (Here's a list of ideas!). Half of the magic of Christmas is being able to do things that you don't do for the rest of the 364 days of the year. Kids love it - I know I did!
Make It A Big Deal
Christmas comes but once a year so live it up! Get out all the decorations, put on the Christmas carols, bake some Christmas treats, and make sure that all the family is together. Children are amazingly in tune with our attitudes and emotions. If you're not exuding the Christmas spirit, then chances are they won't either. Create anticipation with advent calendars and get the children involved with festive crafts and activities.
Play Into The Magic
Now while I don't advocate teaching your children that Santa is real, it doesn't mean that you can't still have fun with the idea of it. Kids have big imaginations. I remember as a child lying in bed at the end of the day and dreaming up crazy imaginary worlds that were full of all the most exciting things.
As children, my siblings and I knew Santa was just a character in a delightful story, but we still put out cookies and milk on Christmas Eve, and my father still joked about Santa coming down the chimney. We knew he didn't exist, but as children, it was fun to pretend that he did.
Children are very gifted at getting lost in their imaginations. We don't need to lie to them in order for them to have a part in a magical fantasy. Set the scene and they will be able to do the rest.
If you feel wrong about letting your children believe Santa is real then you really don't have to worry about stealing away the magic.
Kids are brilliant little creatures that often surpass our expectations. Make Christmas time special and meaningful by doing things together and with love. Your children will be thrilled!
Merry Christmas!
