""Well, you see, Santa and the Tooth Fairy are yarns that we actively release our kids from when they get to a certain age."'

Well, possibly I was in a fortunate minority? When I look back, I fell that I was just as "released" to make my own decisions on religion, as with all the the fabled characters mentioned. Some I retain, and even passed (the experience) on to my children (Santa an the like) as they enlightened my youthful life. With religion, I ensured my children had exposure, and were free to make their own choices, which they did (my son is an athiest, my daughter a non-practicing but believing christian).

But, I look back at all these youth experiences (including religious awareness) with a smile, as I see that they did no harm to my childhood, but did add perspective and, yes, a sparkle of joy in my youthful eye:)

BTW, my intent is in not intended as "somewhat mischievous comparisons" I see them as meaningful comparisons, that have no mischevious intent at all - but could have a purpose in the discussion.