Debate: Should parents trick their kids to believe in Santa Claus?

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Background and context

The tricking of children into belief in a higher being, that brings presents (on Christmas) and also has the supernatural power of generally changing the lifetime - being it Santa Claus in English speaking countries, Child Jesus (Ježíšek, Ježiško, Jézuska) in central European countries, Christkind in German speaking countries, and otherwise named figure elsewhere - is widespread not only in the Western civilization. This is not typically a malicious trick, but just a fun trick to foster a belief in the figure. Yet, many wonder whether this is ethically justified, and whether it is healthy for parents and children that strive to develop mutual trust.

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Pro

• The tradition helps children to mature. If the children knew that it is actually their parents (and/or other relatives or otherwise close people) who give them presents, they would be probably too realistic about what can they expect under the Christmas tree. It is the belief in a higher being that frees them from the reality of everyday life, fostering their imagination. This helps in many ways. Firstly, during this one time of the year, the child has this unique opportunity to think and even dream about what she or he would like to possess, and/or (more importantly) to change in her/his life - limitless. So he or she can learn how to make his or her own mind, how to dream about and plan the future. Writing a wish list to Santa is a great way how to clarify priorities. Secondly, there is this "looking forward to" period, during which the child learns how to retain and foster his or her own belief, her or his hope. And then there is the moment of truth, during which one learns how to cope with reality, filled either (or both) with great happiness and/or considerable sadness. All these phases are essential for personal development, which culminates in the understanding that the fact, that there is no Santa Claus and parents (and/or other people) had been lying about it, is perfectly ok.

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Con

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Pro

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Con

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Pro

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Con

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See also

• Debate: Belief in Santa Claus

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