How Do You Talk to Your Child About Santa Claus?

Anyone who has read Northfield Patch in the past year is well aware that my wife and I welcomed our first child this year.

As she closes in on the end of her first year and, given that it's Christmastime, I've been wondering about our approach with her when it comes to talking about the Big Guy.

How should we talk about Santa Claus?

Given the nature of my job and what I read and see at times, I have a very honest, realistic approach to life. But I also appreciate imagination and letting a kid be a kid. I fully intend to let our little girl grow up with the wonderment that is Santa Claus, but how long does it go on?

Do you let her find out about Santa on her own (parents, you know what I mean, but I want to be careful how I write this in case any 6 year olds come across this post). Do I let her reality get shattered by a kid at the bus stop? Or do I cut that dream short in an effort to save her hurt and embarrassment?

Let me hear it. What do you think? How was the news broken to your child?