When your child asks "Is the elf real?"
Start by asking "What do you think?", because their answer tells you whether they want the magic or the truth. There is no wrong choice, and the note below works whichever way you go.
What to do
- Ask first: “What do you think?” Their answer shows if they want magic or truth.
- There's no right answer. Choose what fits your child and your family.
- Keeping the magic? “What do you reckon?” and a smile is enough for lots of kids.
- Telling them? It's a game your family plays, and now they can help run it.
- Either way, the elf carries on this season. Knowing doesn't stop the fun.
A note you can copy
Morning. Big questions are my favourite kind. Here's my answer: the best bits of Christmas are the ones we make together.
Write it out in wobbly capitals and leave it with the elf. Add your child's name at the top if you like.
Other tricky nights
- Someone picked up the elf: what now?
- Forgot to move the elf?
- Taking the elf away for the weekend
- When the elf lives in two homes
Need an idea for tonight? Quick elf ideas or last-minute elf ideas.