PARENTAL GUIDANCE

Do you believe in Santa?

“In our home, we believe in Santa. That is the statement we have made from the beginning.

“A couple of years ago, I was questioned by my youngest like she was a member of Miami Vice. My response was to answer her questions about Santa with the real historical data of the original St. Nicholas then ending with, ‘In our home, we believe in Santa Claus because he represents what being a good person is all about.’

“This was the same year I incorporated my kids into my charity and volunteer work. You must practice what you preach, right?” – Posted by Sparky

“We have used Santa as a critical thinking exercise in our house. My husband and I never went out of our way to convince our kids that Santa was real.

“After all, the kids around them and their grandpas, grandmas, aunts and uncles all seem to know enough about Santa. When they ask us questions, we respond with a question of our own: ‘What do you think?’ This has allowed them to learn to think on their own instead of relying on us to tell them everything.

“My son figured it all out this year and I gave him a big high five. I told him I was so proud of him for figuring this out with his own brain. I also told him that it’s up to every person to use their brain to figure it out … so he shouldn’t tell his sister or his friends. So far, he’s done really well.” – Posted by Stephanie

“I’m nearly 54 years old. Asking if I believe in Santa Claus is like asking if I believe in gravity or if I believe rain falls from the sky. I don’t have to believe in Santa Claus. Santa Claus exists as inevitably and as surely as the Earth spinning on its axis.

“I take great comfort and joy in resting certain in Santa Claus returning every year, bringing fun into our lives, and helping us express goodwill to one another.” – Posted by Raymond Pert

You can join the conversation at spokesmanreview.com/ blogs/parents