by Billie Meyers

Created on: May 24, 2008

Fantasies are a harmless escape from the real world. They provide children with an outlet and parents with an opportunity. But because fantasy books such as the "Harry Potter" series contain magic, some religious denominations feel that these books should not be read by children. Perhaps they fear that the children will not be able to differentiate between the fantasy contained in the books and reality. Perhaps they fear that the children will turn away from their religious upbringings.

Whatever the reason, children should not be prevented from reading fantasy books. Instead, parents should view them as opportunities to affirm their faiths rather than attempts to undermine them. It is true that children are very impressionable. But it is also true that parents are in the number one position to make an impression upon a child. If young people are protected from supposed threats to their faith as children, how will they respond to threats once they leave home and no longer have parental guidance?

Children must learn how to be discerning. They must learn how to evaluate other ideas, religions, and philosophies against their own. Parents can practice this with their children by talking about the ideas presented in fantasy books, but should be careful not to make blanket statements such as, "Those books are evil." Explain in detail what it is about certain beliefs that you feel are harmful. Children are capable of understanding abstract concepts, but it isn't always easy. Talk regularly about your beliefs. And if they question your faith, don't shut them down by becoming angry about it. Talk it out.

Across the globe, the J.K. Rowling Harry Potter series has many kids opting to read rather than watch TV. Hooray for that! These books open windows to the imagination and take kids to places that only exist in the world of fantasy. But ultimately these books are about good versus evil, and the good usually prevail!

If a child is showing an interest in reading fantasy books, he or she should be encouraged. Ignorance never helped anyone. Besides, banning something simply adds to the mystique of the thing that is banned. It is likely that children told NOT to read fantasy books will seek them out. Children are exposed to just about everything a parent fears in spite of attempts to shelter them. What children need is confidence. Confident children are borne of well-rounded, open-minded, and tolerant parents. What every good parent needs is teachable moments. Fantasy books provide just that!

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