The Tooth Fairy Tradition is probably the only tradition that actually has TWO national days to recognize it. According to holidayinsights.com, It’s celebrated on either February 28th, or August 22nd. If you’ve got a little one in the house who is getting to that age when teeth are starting to loosen and big girl or big boy teeth are coming in, why not start a Tooth Fairy tradition in your household?
Why a Tooth Fairy?
While it may seem old news to you, losing a tooth is a new experience. It seems like an every day thing to you, but whether a tooth falls out naturally, or gets yanked out by a string and a door knob, or it some other speedy arrangement it’s a big event that first time. Holding a tooth in your hand that was once in your mouth can be thrilling and scary. There’s blood, there’s a bit of pain, and everyone knows its happening. And if it’s a front tooth, it can be embarrassing for some children to suddenly find themselves struggling to speak clearly. They may even have friends laughing at them.
Introducing the Tooth Fairy! She rewards the child for their tooth, always knows the tooth has come out regardless of whether it’s lost or not, and adds excitement around part of growing up. Wouldn’t we all like a magic fairy to come along when growing older brings that first wrinkle or first grey hair?
How Much Does a Tooth Go For These Days?
In the US, children receive cash for their teeth. The treasured tooth is tucked under a pillow at night and in the morning the tooth is gone and money is left behind. To make it extra special, why not give your little one a special Tooth Fairy pillow from Jacaranda? It comes complete with a tooth pocket to tuck that newly lost tooth in so it doesn’t get lost during the night. It’s also easier to slip a surprise into the pocket before morning comes! And the pillow is a nice addition to any child’s bedroom decor!
You may be asking yourself though, how much do you pay per tooth? According to mentalfloss.com the average was $3.70 per tooth back in 2013. Inflation does show a jump year over year, with cbsnews.com stating that some years the jump can be as much as 23%! Why? Well, kids talk, and it seems there is comparison on what is received. No one wants their kids to be the lowest paid. If you’re not sure what to give, and want a comparison, ask the parents in your area. But if it doesn’t matter to you, pay what you feel is right, or consider a totally different tradition. Perhaps a new book, or a new character inspired toothbrush and toothpaste. But if you’ve got multiple teeth falling, that can get just as expensive if not more.
Tooth Fairy Traditions Around the World
You can also draw on traditions from around the world. In many Hispanic countries children are visited by Ratoncito Perez, a little mouse who collects teeth from under a pillow or even left in a glass of water! He leaves behind gifts or money. In South Africa, teeth are left in the child’s slippers. And in Asian countries like India, China, Japan, Korea and Vietnam, children throw lost teeth up onto the roof or under or onto the floor and make a wish.
Tooth Fairy Traditions That Can Be Passed Down
Whatever you decide, it’s nice to have some traditions that can be passed down. Jacaranda Living offers pretty Tooth Fairy Pillows that are perfect to recognize that first lost tooth, and provide a place to snuggle the teeth that will certainly follow. You can give each child with their own pillow, or pass the pillow on from child to child. Consequently, once children grow up, they can pass on their own personal pillow to their own children. When those little ones are old enough, they’ll enjoy hearing stories of when their parents were young and going through the same experience. Having a tradition to hold on to and share with future generations is part of making a childhood to remember. Why not build the Tooth Fairy Tradition into your own child’s life?
Sources
http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/February/toothfairyday.htm
http://mentalfloss.com/article/58503/7-tooth-fairy-traditions-around-world
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/tooth-fairy-inflation-flies-high/
