My Daughter Is Being Bullied because She Believes in Santa
“My 6 year old daughter is getting bullied at school because she still believes in Santa Claus, flying reindeer, Christmas elves, Mrs. Claus, magic in general, the whole shebang… She absolutely loves this aspect of the season, but she’s also miserable and comes back crying every day because of this. What can I do that won’t burst her little magic bubble yet, but also protect her? is it possible to do both?”
Research shows that most children find the truth about Santa around age 8. So, your daughter is showing typical and normative behaviour believing in Santa.
You need to validate her feelings: “I understand you are upset because children are teasing you. It is wrong to behave that way”. And then practice with her how to react to them. Ideally, she does not want to give the bullies a big reaction, because that will reinforce their behaviour (I know this is really difficult for a 6-year-old). You can roleplay the situation, and she could practice saying something to them like: “You can believe what you want and I can believe what I want” or “OK, I am going to play”.
I would also talk to her teacher, so she is aware of what is happening. Bullying should not be happening, and it should be dealt with straight away. Ask your daughter who is doing the bullying, and when and where it is happening.
Finally, reinforce her social relations. Have friends over for playdates. Having one good friend will make her feel much stronger and confident.
I hope this information helps. It breaks my heart to think of your little one being bullied because she believes in Santa. I hope she has the most wonderful Christmas.
Ana
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