It is very common for your child to go through a stage where they have fear of Santa Claus and the Magi. It is a usual scene to see children crying on the knees of one of these characters as if they were on top of a wild bear. As much as we tell them that they are endearing and bring gifts to children at Christmas, they also feel scared.
It is possible that instead of running excitedly towards them like in a Christmas movie, the child throws a deafening scream and begins to cry inconsolably. In normal and natural. It is a manifestation of fear of strangers and the unknown.
Fear is not a bad thing. Childhood fears are an evolutionary process that children go through during the first years of life. It is a state of alertness, an adaptive reaction to a danger, a threat, or to the unknown.
Approximately, between 6 months and 2 years of life (although it is not unusual to see a 3-year-old child), the child goes through a normal phase of his development in which he is afraid of those who are not his usual caregivers. You may even suddenly feel fear in the arms of people you used to be comfortable with.
If we add to the fear of strangers that we talk about characters in quirky costumes, with huge beards and surrounded by all the Christmas paraphernalia, the screams and cries of some children are absolutely understandable.
How to help you overcome the fear of Santa Claus and the Magi?
Not all children are equal, there are those who are delighted to be able to meet them closely and even give them the letter in hand, a kiss and whatever it takes. On the other hand, not all children express fear in the same way. Some are shy, others run away, others scream, etc.
But calm down. He will not have a trauma for life for having had fear of Santa Claus and the Magi when I was little. As the child grows and matures, fears are overcome. Of course, parents are essential to help them overcome it through our understanding and love.
Of course, we have to respect the child and not force him To be with those who feel insecure. Having the photo of the child on his first Christmas with Santa Claus or the Magi can be very beautiful, but do not press it because it is the least if the child does not want. Do not resort to phrases like "You don't have to be afraid, it's Melchor" Nothing like that.
If you do not see him terrified, but something fearful and insecure, accompany him. Being in touch with your attachment figure (mom or dad), whether in arms or hand, will give you greater confidence to interact with strangers.
