Hey Mom and Dad: An All-Important Holiday Question

Welcome to Hey Mom and Dad—a weekly feature in which we ask our Facebook fans to share their views on parenting. Every week, we get the conversation started by taking a look back at a question we asked parents the week before on Patch Facebook pages from around the area.

This week's question is a little delicate, but no less important or worthy of discussion. Without going into too much detail for those wandering eyes:

What is the appropriate age to talk to your kids about Santa Claus? 

Take a look at what people had to say and join the conversation in the comments section.

Philana N. I will bring it up when he asks and has figured it out on his own. He's 8, going on 9 now and still believes. He questions how it's possible, but for now, I still have acceptable answers! He will need to continue to believe no matter what, as he's the oldest of 3! via Oswego Patch

Tiffany S. ... Is this a formal talk we're suppose to have at some point, like "the sex talk"? Don't kids just gradually catch on? via Montgomery Patch

Wendy M. If you don't believe you don't receive. Period!!! I love seeing the smiles on my kids faces when they see that Santa came. via Plainfield Patch

Vero N. I say let a child be a child and allow/embrace them to believe since they are only a child once. via Bolingbrook Patch

Anna K. Ours were all in 5th grade when we told them, and two of three were surprised. Now they all enjoy being part of the magic themselves! And we have always told them that Santa shares gifts to celebrate Jesus' birthday, and for breakfast on Christmas morning we have happy birthday Jesus cake... via Romeoville Patch

Monica H. I have been wondering the same thing. My oldest son is almost 11 and still believes. I have been contemplating telling him. via Joliet Patch

Jamie W. I say not untill they ask!!! But 4th 5th grade is when it kinda starts...My daughter is in 3rd..and she keeps asking questions...I just respond with "Do you honestly think mom and dad can afford all those gifts you get on Christmas" and then she drops it.:):) It is so much more fun to Believe keep the Spirit alive!! via Shorewood Patch

Alicia H. What are you talking about? Santa is real, I'm in the process of sending him a list right now. via Channahon-Minooka Patch