When to tell your kids the truth about Santa, according to a psychotherapist

When your child still believes in Santa, your excitement can make the holiday season feel even more special.

The magic doesn't always last. Your child will start to question Santa's existence at some point.

If your child never asks about Santa, you might find yourself in a rare situation, where you don't know how to respond. They still seem to like the guy in the red suit even after they've passed the age.

If it's time to spill the beans, you might be worried. You don't want your child to be made fun of for believing in Santa when they're a teenager. How soon should you tell your children about Santa? Parents ask it in my office.

I assure parents that I've never had an adult claim that believing in Santa scarred them for life, even if they did say so. Don't get caught up in the idea that there is only one way to handle a situation. You can address the Santa issue based on your beliefs and values.

There isn't a right or wrong age to tell kids the truth

They understand the world and should give you pointers. Between the ages of five and seven kids start to think a bit more critically. They think that flying reindeer and a guy coming down the chimney might be a bit far off.

Don't be surprised if your child asks a question. You might not be asked if Santa is real. You might get questions like "How do reindeer fly?" or "How does Santa make it all around the world in one night?"

If your child insists on getting an answer, it's best to be up front

Your instinct may be to assure your child that Santa is real and his magic powers help him defy logic. You might be tempted to lie to your children in order to spare them pain. You don't want Christmas to be ruined for them. They want to know the truth. Being honest will not hurt them.

You don't have to tell the entire story. You could ask a few questions. What do you think about that? Kids are allowed to make their own conclusions.

Tell me. Explain that you are behind the presents from Santa if you are honest.

Your answers about Santa should depend on your values, your spiritual beliefs, and what you hope your child will learn from the experience

The true meaning of Christmas is discussed by some families. Parents tell their children that Christmas is all about giving, and now that they know the truth about Santa, their job is to become Santa to someone else.

You don't have to ruin your child's spirit and make them stop playing. You can make Christmas more about giving instead of reindeer. It is possible that not everyone knows the secret yet. Don't let your child announce at school.

If you believe you can still make it a great holiday, there's a good chance your Christmas spirit will help your child enjoy the holiday season

The true magic of Christmas has to do with your beliefs and your child's knowledge of Santa, regardless of who you believe in. If you think Christmas won't be fun now that your child knows the truth, you could drag your mood down.

Whether you start a new tradition that involves giving gifts to those in need or you allow your child to buy secret gifts for another family member, a different kind of holiday may be even more fun than you think.