Should parents “tell the truth” about Santa… or keep the story going? 

In this Parents of the Year holiday episode, Andrew and Caroline unpack what kids actually need when they start questioning Santa, how to respond without shame or panic, and how to turn the moment into something that builds kindness, generosity, and family connection. 

They talk about following your child’s lead, keeping your tone warm and honest, and shifting the story from “Is Santa real?” to “What does Santa stand for—and how do we carry that forward?” 

Homework Ideas

Prep your “Santa questions” script  

Be prepared so you don’t freeze:

• “What do you think?”
• “What makes you wonder that?”
• “What does Santa mean to you?”
• “In our family, Santa is a story about generosity and giving.”

Plan the “invite them in” transition (kids who are figuring it out)

If your child is questioning or knows:

• “You’re old enough to be in on it now.”
• “We keep Santa going to make it special for little kids.”
• “Want to help us do one small ‘Santa job’ this year?”

Santa job ideas: choose a toy donation, deliver treats to helpers, set out a surprise note, wrap one gift.

Pick one “Santa = generosity” tradition

• donate a toy together
• write a thank-you card to a community helper
• do a “secret kind act” day
• make a small treat drop-off

Goal: keep the meaning, not just the myth.

If your kid asks directly: don’t over-talk

Try:

• “That’s a smart question.”
• “What do you already believe?”
• “In our family, Santa is part story, part tradition—and the giving is real.”

Keep it short. Let them lead the pace.

Send us a text

Enjoying the show? Help us out by rating us on Apple! https://apple.co/3du8mPK

Follow us on Facebook and join our Facebook Community!

Access resources, get support from other parents, and ask Caroline and Andrew your questions!

Follow FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566206651235and
FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/674563503855526