When should you tell your child the truth about Santa?

While it may be frowned upon to lie to children, most parents will make an exception when it comes to Santa Claus.

Some parents reflect joyfully on their childhood Christmas experiences and seek to recapture some of that magic with their own children, while others oppose the Santa myth on religious grounds.

But what effect does this all have on children and their development? And are parents better off just telling them the truth from the outset?

Jared Piazza, Lecturer has looked at the arguments for and against perpetuating the Santa story.

A common concern is that lying, ultimately, will erode children’s trust in their parents.

For example, when a child begins to question Santa’s existence, parents can have an honest conversation with them about why they supported them in their belief, citing perhaps the enjoyment genuine belief produces.

It is always possible that children might resent the deception, or question their parents’ judgement in other areas, but Dr Piazza explained that if parents are honest with them about why this situation is exceptional, it is unlikely their child will hold it against them for too long.

Another potential problem often raised is that encouraging belief in Santa could make it difficult for children to distinguish between fantasy and reality, possibly delaying their cognitive development.

But research suggests that the ability to differentiate fact from fiction actually starts early in childhood and increases with age.

In fact, some studies suggest children with rich fantasy lives may actually be better at identifying the boundaries between fantasy and reality.

Young children can distinguish impossible entities, such as flying pigs, from possible ones, but what they have trouble with is emotionally charged entities such as monsters, and those endorsed by the surrounding society, including Santa, continued Dr Piazza.

Source :Daily Mail

N.H.Khider