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Cevery day, coming home from school, Salomé asks her parents: “But mum, is there really Santa Claus?” “. It is that in the playground, rumors are rife … There are those who, proud to hold a secret, announce point blank: “But no, well, it does not exist, it’s the parents …” And those who believe it hard as iron. If your child has already entered CP, there is a good chance that doubt will really set in … leading to the end of an illusion, one that deliciously belongs to early childhood. Parents are often hesitant about what to do: let him believe it as long as possible, or tell him the truth?
“At 6 years old, Louis often asked us about Santa Claus: normal, by dint of seeing him on every street corner! How did he get into the houses? And to carry all the gifts? I said to him “What do you think of Santa Claus?” He replied: “He is very strong and he finds solutions.” He still wanted to believe it! ” Mélanie
It all depends on the attitude of the child
It’s up to you to feel if your little dreamer is mature enough, at 6 or 7, to hear the truth. If he asks questions without pushing, tell yourself that he has understood the gist of the story, but would like to believe it a little more. ” It’s important to do not go against the child’s doubts, without adding any more. You should also know that some children are afraid of displeasing their parents and making them sad if they no longer believe in them. Tell them that Santa Claus exists for those who believe in it, ”advises Stéphane Clerget, child psychiatrist. But if he insists, the time has come! Take the time to discuss together in a confidential tone, to tactfully reveal to him what is happening at Christmas: we let the children believe in a beautiful story to please them. Or because it’s a legend that’s been around for a very long time. Don’t lie to him : if he clearly formulates that for him Santa Claus does not exist, do not tell him the opposite. When the time came, the disillusion would be very strong. And he would resent you for being fooled. So even if he’s disappointed, don’t insist. Tell him about the Christmas celebrations and the secret you are going to share. Because now it’s a big one! Also explain to him that it is important not to say anything to the little ones who also have the right to dream a little. Promised?
My child no longer believes in Santa Claus, what does that change?
And let parents be reassured: a child who no longer believes in Santa Claus does not necessarily want to give up Christmas rituals. So we don’t change anything! The tree, the decorated house, the log and the gifts will bring just as much their dimension of wonder, even more than before. And in addition to the gift he will ask you for, now that he has unlocked the big secret, don’t forget to give him a surprise gift: the magic of Christmas must live on!