The Disappearance of Christmas: Changes in a Child's Growth
As Christmas approaches, we asked our child as usual what he wanted from Santa, only to discover that he already knew Santa didn't exist. Last year, he learned the truth from classmates and educational videos, yet chose to believe in Santa's 'magic'. Hearing him hope for gifts again warms and touches us: whether he believes or not, we will always be his 'Santa'.
As Christmas neared, around this time each year, we would tentatively ask our child what gifts he wanted from Santa. Then we would quietly buy 1-2 gifts and include a printed letter 'from Santa'. A few years ago, we left the address of the Finnish Santa Claus Village in one of the letters. Even today, our child can recite that long translated Chinese address from memory.
A few days ago, we tentatively asked again what he wanted from Santa. The child smiled and said, 'You are Santa.' We were a bit surprised, but it was somewhat expected, since last year or a few months ago he watched a YouTube video where an educational blogger explained the truth about Christmas. I had noticed him then, he was quietly smiling.
We asked when he learned Santa isn't real. He said last year, as classmates had discussed that they never received gifts from Santa. He had his doubts but still believed last year.
We said then there would be no gifts from Santa this year. The child did not respond at first. Last night, on the way back from dinner, he said, 'I want gifts from Santa. I believe Santa exists...'
Regardless of whether he believes, we will always be his Santa.
So, what gifts should a 10-year-old boy receive?