Is Santa Claus real? How to keep the festive magic going

If you have children then one of the biggest parts of the tradition of getting ready for Christmas is Santa Claus. The story of Santa Claus only giving gifts to well-behaved boys and girls is an effective way to keep them "well-behaved" and from acting up during such a hectic season. 

But what happens when our kids inch ever closer to the double digits where they start thinking it through, figuring out the myths and probing us with the question - is he real?

The Origin Story

The original story of Santa Claus begins with the legend of Saint Nicholas. Historical records show that Saint Nicholas was a third-century monk born in what is now modern-day Turkey in a small village called Patara. Saint Nicholas was well known for his generous spirit. A man of good deeds and kindheartedness who was eventually sainted and became the patron (protector) of children and sailors.

Long after the man had passed on, the legend continued to grow and spread throughout most of western Europe until Dutch, Swiss, and German settlers brought the legend over to the United States. This was where the final rendition of his legend evolved into the jolly old red-suited Santa Claus our kids know and love today.

How to keep the magic going

As kids start to reach a certain age, usually between 6 and 9, they start to formulate questions about the world that surrounds them and naturally want to learn how things work. When it comes to broaching the question surrounding Santa there are a number of ways in which you can address the topic.

Let's say your child makes the statement "Santa isn't real, is he?" We first assume that the conversation came up in the schoolyard because kids around this age are definitely talking about it. One such way to keep the conversation moving is by directing the question back at them to help them think critically of the story. "What makes you think Santa isn't real?" 

Not only does the approach allow them to open up about where their scepticism comes from, but it reinforces the notion that they can always come to you with these sorts of questions, we don't want our kids to become too mistrustful of what we tell them, so it's important to take a reflective tone.

Another approach after you break the news that you've been Santa all along is to follow up that statement with a question about why your kids find Christmas to be a special occasion in the first place. This becomes an excellent opportunity for you to speak of family togetherness and the traditions behind the myth. Talk about the history of Saint Nicholas, his legacy, and how anyone can be Santa as long as they have a generous and giving spirit.

Keeping it fun and lighthearted

Breaking the news that Santa isn't quite the red-suited and white-bearded bringer of gifts doesn't have to be a birds and the bees affair. Sometimes saying something as simple and positive as "being Santa Claus is an imaginary game we play because it's really, really fun!" is an honest yet tongue-in-cheek way to approach the subject.

When it comes to approaching the facts about Santa in a fun, lighthearted, yet insightful way, The Wonderful Truth About Santa by Jessica Jansen and B. K. Gendron is an excellent gift you may consider getting for friends who have kids around this age. It's also perfect for kids to read themselves so maybe add it in with their Christmas bounty this year?

The idea of the gift of giving goes beyond just presents and Santa. Sometimes and act as simple as cleaning out old toys no one plays with anymore to give to charities in need can make the world of difference for children with very little. Some awesome initiatives include shoebox presents where old shoe boxes are converted into gift boxes with a treasure trove of toys hidden inside to brighten someone's rainy day.

No matter which way you approach this subject, always remind your children that the spirit of Christmas can be magical with or without Santa Claus.

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