To believe DS (9) still believes in Father Christmas?

[user1475501383]

I found out at age 7 or 8 myself which I always thought was pretty late. DS (9) still talks about Santa like he genuinely believes in him.

Is this normal? DS is a pretty switched on kid so sometimes I wonder if he actually knows Santa isn't real but plays along to it because he maybe thinks he needs to in order to get presents?

At what age did your DCs find out the truth and how?

Is there a gentle way to break the news so the child doesn't feel betrayed if it goes on for too long?

Oh god DS is 7 and I really hope we get a few years yet with him believing! This thread is making me sad. He has questioned it but I just lie through my teeth to keep the magic alive!

I think I was 10 when I knew and I remember it being the worst Christmas EVER. I was so sad that it was all made up. My poor mum even did a great job of including me as Santa for my siblings but it's just never the same once that rare and wonderful magic is gone!

Ah, you all just give in too quickly to the magic disappearing. You don't have to believe in FC to enjoy the magic of Christmas. You don't have to say outright that he doesn't exist, but then I suppose it depends on what role FC plays in your Christmas In our family he's just been the one to deliver presents so all expectations and requests are within the family budget, and they know they'll continue to receive presents, as they were always labelled as being from people other than FC.