No, it's not fear of saints and religious artifacts.  In fact, Santa Phobia has nothing to do with religion at all (just like Santa himself).  It's just that unreasonable fear kids have of that kindly, old fat guy who comes once a year in a red suit bearing gifts.  What's so scary about that?!   Beats me.  Here's a photo of Lily's annual pose with Santa -  with her back to him - that's the only way she'll pose with Santa.  She refuses to make eye contact, typical city kid.  She acts like she just met him on the subway or something.  She's 6 now and still petrified of him.  It's starting to be embarrassing.  Will this ever end?  Are your kids scared or still scared of Santa?  Please share the pain.