Have you experienced the world of Harry Potter, stories of hobbits, tales of fantasy, and superheroes stories? These are all part of a make-believe world. When adults walk into the theatre to experience the surreal through these tales, they consciously enter a fantastical world. Then why deprive children of the magic of mythical characters by telling them that Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy do not exist?
Healthy imagination, or lies?
It was my elder sister who broke to me that no Tooth Fairy was going to turn up to carry the last of my milk teeth. It was disappointing at first, but I never questioned my parents’ truthfulness. Lying to a child is not a good idea in general, but psychologists say that an exception can be made for such myths. Experts agree that believing in such characters or tales is a healthy part of a child’s growing process.
Children have fertile minds
Why should children be deprived of the magic of Santa or the Tooth Fairy simply because someday they will learn the truth? Children have extremely fertile minds. They visualise creatures existing beyond what the eye can see. They believe in fairies and monsters. Some even create imaginary friends. All of these are perfectly normal, and when the child is ready to accept the fictionality of these characters, parents can let them in on the secret.
Let the magic stay
Even in cultures like India, parents have begun to encourage myths popular in the Western world. When children go to bed waiting to wake up and search for a gift beneath the Christmas tree, they are becoming part of a new tradition. This is a healthy way of bonding with children. In cultures where Santa is known to bring gifts on Christmas, all children are part of the magic. If one of the parents decides they have to be honest, the child may end up feeling left out. When it is time, parents can let older children be part of the secret. For example, it will be rewarding for a child to play Santa for their younger siblings. This way, the tradition can live on. Until then, it is healthy to let children believe in the magic of mythical characters.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is it OK to lie about Santa and the Tooth Fairy?
Since these are part of traditions, parents are carrying forth magical family beliefs. This is a healthy process, not lying.
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When should kids be told the truth about Tooth Fairy?
Most children will start asking questions around ages 4 to 7. If they are sad upon learning the truth, empathise and explain.
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How do I get my child to believe in the tooth fairy?
Write a letter, or read a bedtime story. Weave a tale around a lost tooth with your child.
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How does the Tooth Fairy myth help a child?
The magical belief that the tooth is someplace safe helps a child deal with the loss of a tooth.
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How does the Tooth Fairy know you lost a tooth?
When a child loses a tooth, a bell chimes in the fairy’s castle. The fairy flies to the house of the child when it is sleeping to bring the tooth.
