How does Hilary Erickson's perspective on Santa Claus connect to her faith?

Hilary Erickson (me) connects Santa directly to my faith by using him as a symbol or representation of Christ in our home, especially for young kids who can’t yet grasp who Jesus is.

Santa, in my view, models:

• Giving freely to others (like Christ’s gifts and grace)
• Knowing and loving each child
• Inspiring charity and kindness in people at Christmas

As my kids grow, I shift the focus from the “man” to the feeling of Santa—the spirit of love, generosity, and belief—which I see as rooted in Christ’s love and the Spirit of Christmas. So believing in Santa becomes an early, concrete way to practice belief, goodness, and giving, which I hope prepares their hearts to believe in and follow Christ.

Is there a particular part of that connection you’re most curious about—how to explain it to kids, or how it fits with your own beliefs?