It's weird from an adult's perspective but it's magical for a kid, and seeing the excitement build and the idea of actual magic contributing to a really family centric event is like proper magic for a parent too.

I spent a long time growing up thinking that I would never do that to my kids, but I think it's actually crueler not to do it now. You're taking away an experience most children share and get excited by together for no real reason.

My children are 3.5 and 9months and I haven't decided when I'd let the older one know but it's certainly a few years away at least. I'm hoping that one day she comes and asks me herself how real it is because she's pieced together how impossible some aspects are, but I really have no idea how naively optimistic I'm being. I guess what's more likely is she comes home from school upset one day because another kid told her, and then I'll have to explain it and get her on board to keep the magic alive for her little brother.

1. It's not a stranger. Santa was a fairytale part of our family.
2. He left presents with the permission and collaboration of my parents. So he wasn't sneaking in without first consulting with them. No different to the comings and goings of my parents other friends and family. Theoretically they could have told him I was naughty, and not let him in.
3. If it's a real issue, for some weird reason, have him "post" the presents.
4. kids cotton on fast, but it is a fun game, no different to waking from your nap and finding out your grandfather flew in from overseas when you were sleeping.