While adult Australians ponder the big questions of the 2021 festive season such as how far families can travel and whether rain will ruin gatherings, many young children are firmly focused on one big moment – the overnight visit by Santa Claus.

Despite accessible technology and the perception that kids are growing up faster, many remain obsessed with Christmas and the magic of Santa.

Senior Lecturer in Psychology Dr Rachael Sharman explains the answer lies in understanding that children's thoughts and emotions about Santa’s visit are actually “lighting up” areas of their brains regulated by the dopamine system.

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