An important lesson about a holiday symbol was instilled in me when I was 10 years old. 

That year, my friends began to wonder if Santa Claus was real.

They asked their parents if he was real. Many parents said no.

I asked mine the same question and received a different answer.

[Tweet “Santa Clause is a special symbol of the holidays. “]

(GASP)

Did My Parents Lie to Me?  

No. They told me Santa is no longer an actual person. But, his spirit lives on in all of us as a symbol of the Holidays.

He’s a well-known symbol. With his long white beard, red suit and jolly laugh.

His symbol is an expression of giving to others. He shows up before Christmas as an inclusive and caring figure.

The Santa symbol is good, kind and giving. He’s an excellent role model for how we all should act and treat others. But, he’s also a positive joy for all during the holiday season.

[Tweet “The symbol of Santa Clause brings the spirit of Christmas alive. “]

It was my parents’ choice to instill the belief of this symbolism in me. Here’s why:

3 Reasons for preserving Santa Clause as a symbol of the holidays. 

1. Children (and adults) have something to look forward to – Visiting Santa is fun. Leaving cookies for Santa is fun. It’s a joy to see everyone’s faces light up when Santa is around.I remember acting so excited to see Santa Clause! Now, I get excited when my own daughter gets to see him as well.
2. It’s an important part of holiday cheer – The symbol of Santa Clause is magical. Why wouldn’t you want to carry the magic of this symbol on to your own children?As classic symbols are carried on into older children and adults, the magic of the symbols of the holidays are preserved through generations. They will be more likely to pass on traditions and symbols of Christmas to their own children.
3. Teach everyone the true meaning of the Holidays – Santa is a symbol of giving. Make it a teachable moment explaining how we should all give during the holidays.

3 Things Parents DO Need to Remember About Santa

1. Not all houses with good children are visited by Santa Clause – Not everyone believes in or celebrates the symbol of Santa. Therefore, he only stops at houses who believes in him. Makes sense, right?
2. Santa can’t always afford that gift – Not all families has the money for the gift the kid is asking for. Turn it into a lesson for a more meaningful gift.My family did not have much money. I didn’t always receive what I asked for from Santa, but I did always get a useful gift. My parents said Santa just thought I needed this one more.
3. Santa only leaves one gift per child – This concept teaches the kids about being humble and thankful about their gifts. Your children don’t NEED a lot of gifts. Santa knows this.

It may seem silly. It may seem childish. But, I truly feel all symbols of the holidays should be preserved for as long as possible.

To me, it makes perfect sense. I will continue to spread Holiday cheer to my own children and to any children who ask me if Santa Clause exists.

We should all be able to hear the sleigh bells ring on Christmas Eve.

How do you choose to preserve the symbol and spirit of Santa Clause?

~ Much Love ~