How and when to tell a child that Santa Claus does not exist

The image of Santa Claus appears in the child's environment even before the parents decided whether to tell a fairy tale about this character or not. On New Year's Eve Santa Claus occurs literally everywhere: in cartoons, TV, advertising, street and shopping center decor. And, of course, the parents explain that this is such a kind wizard who brings gifts under the Christmas tree - how else? But is it worth doing? And when is it better to tell that Santa Claus does not exist?

The opinion of psychologists

Child psychologists approve of stories about the existence of Santa Claus. Still, childhood is the most wonderful time for believing in fairy tales, miracles and magic. And you should not deprive the baby of the New Year's miracle, dipping him immediately into adulthood.

When to tell that Santa Claus is not there?

Until the child begins to ask questions himself, you can not explain to him that this is a fictional character. With age, he will understand on his own, or he will begin to guess and ask you. Then you can explain that, indeed, Santa Claus is rather a symbol of the holiday, but no one knows if he really exists.

What not to do

It is impossible to artificially and excessively support the child's faith in Santa Claus. That is, if he already guessed that he receives gifts from his parents and hired actors, and not his grandfather-wizard, then it is not necessary to convince him of the opposite with all his might. Also, do not try to immerse the child too much in a fairy tale, trying to bring it to life. For example, if you are writing a letter to Santa Claus with your child, you do not need to write an answer, allegedly on his behalf. Or even more so ask someone to call your child on behalf of this character.

Let Del Moroz be some distant and invisible figure who receives letters and puts appropriate gifts under the tree.

Will the child be offended when he finds out the truth?

If you do not try to convince the kid with all your might of the existence of Santa Claus, then he will accept the truth calmly, because he will understand it at the age when it will no longer bother him too much.

If the child asks directly why he was deceived, explain that they just wanted to please and surprise. Besides, being a "wizard" and making surprises is no less pleasant than receiving them.

Still, try not to catch your baby's eye when placing a gift under the tree. And if you are caught, do not compose a new fairy tale, otherwise the child will really be offended for such a deception.

You will be interested to know how to write a letter to Santa Claus with a child.