Tis the season to be jolly, but don’t be surprised if your little one is anything but, when it comes to being near the Old Saint Nick.
Most children are afraid of Santa Claus because…
• Of his odd vocabulary (Ho! Ho! Ho!) or the fact that he’s an omnipresent entity, that somehow always knows if he or she has been bad or good.
• Plenty of kids are fearful simply because they are expected to talk to a complete stranger and possibly sit on his lap.
• Some kids don’t like his white beard, his gloves, or his red suit.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT A FEAR OF SANTA ?
Children are easily terrified by people in masks and costumes, even when they’re friendly favourites such as Santa Claus.
• Don’t force it.
Taking a photo with a big bearded man in the red suit and sitting on his lap, will not make the fear of Santa Claus disappear.
In fact, it can cause more anxiety and turn your child off all things holiday-related.
• Play it straight.
That means no teasing or smiling at your child’s distress, which can backfire and make your child even more phobic.
• Be supportive.
Tell your child that you won’t let anything bad happen.
• Back away.
If your little one seems more shy than scared, have her hold your hand and watch from far while other kids hug Santa.
When the child sees and hears their reactions from a safe distance, he or she may calm down enough to realize that there’s no danger.
