The discussion of believing in fictional characters came up with the recent tooth loss my 5 year old experienced.
Weirdly enough, I didn't even teach Cate about the tooth fairy, but she knew that when you lost a tooth the fairy would come and bring you something, if you put it under your pillow. Where did she learn that?
What do you say as a mom, when you child asks you about such characters in life, like Santa?
Well, Kyle and I tell them. . .
WE BELIEVE!
What a great chance to experience the magic of something that isn't real, but the spirit of it is.
Why not, too? I was totally happy as a child to believe in these "people" and wasn't devastated when I discovered they weren't real. Instead, I was kinda excited to become these characters!
Also, it may seem a stretch to some, but faith starts with belief. How can you teach a child to believe in God if you can't see him? Why not believe in Santa then, to begin teaching faith. If you believe, look what can happen.
Doesn't the same work with God?
Like I said, you may find it a stretch, but it makes complete sense to me to say, "Better not pout, and see what Santa thinks of that" and "Be kind, say your prayers, and pay your tithing and see what God will do."
So, regardless of whether you have little kids at home or not, what do you plan to teach your kids and why?
Comments
It is not something that makes you upset when you find out, because with age, you figure it out and it is fun to participate in sub for Santa activities with youth groups and school groups.