Do We Tell Children About Santa Claus?
By Dr. Ted Baehr, Publisher
Christmas movies often focus on Santa Claus, not Jesus Christ. This presents a problem for Christian parents. How do they help their children understand that Jesus is real whereas Santa Claus is a myth?
Of course, parents can start by talking about the real Saint Nicholas, but since Santa Claus brings presents, children are big fans of his generous gift giving. Historically, many famous people and of course many others, have said that when they found out Santa was not real, they also dismissed Jesus as being a myth. So, it’s very important to help children know that Jesus is real whereas the current Santa is merely a fiction.
Now many children, according to cognitive development theory, will understand the difference, but some children, including some of my 17 grandchildren, are enraptured by a belief in Santa Claus. So, it’s important to know that they need to be weened from the idea of Santa Claus in a loving and kind way.
In this regard, they need to know they can pray to Jesus and in the Name of Jesus, and He is the Lord of the universe who is all-knowing, all-powerful and omnipresent. One good approach is to have your children talk about answered prayers whenever they occur. Soon, they will put their faith in Jesus, not Santa Clause.
It’s also important to let children know that the gifts they receive come from their family and their friends, not from some mythological character.
Of course, this is just a start. If you want more information, read THE MEDIA-WISE FAMILY.
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