Today, February 28th is National Tooth Fairy Day. I’m almost certain nobody knew, it’s one of those obscure holidays that we still need to go to work on. However, if you told your child they might actually find it a good enough excuse to maybe find an extra dollar under their pillow. That is if they believe in the tooth fairy to begin with.
How Much Does the Tooth Fairy Pay?
The tooth fairy hasn’t quite reached Santa Clause status, as seen by a study found here. But it did show that over 60% of 5-year-olds did believe in the tooth fairy. A more interesting study was how much money the tooth fairy gives. Colgate.com reveals:
“According to a survey by Visa, the average payout for a tooth in 2012 was three dollars, up 15 percent from the previous year. It is important to note that amount varies depending on a number of factors, including where you live, your income, your education and your age.”
Money Alternatives
Rather than money, many take the opportunity to educate their children about oral health and give presents ranging from fun Disney themed toothbrushes to Etsy made tooth themed gifts or books like Dr. Seuss’ “The Tooth Book.” A cute idea that I also came across online was Tooth Fairy Certificate of Record. I know I would’ve proudly framed and shown that off as a kid.
Tooth Fairy vs. “Tooth Mouse”
Speaking of me as a kid, growing up in Sweden my mom used to say that a mouse gives us our money. I tried to look up where this tradition came from and was reminded that the Swedish tradition is actually to put the tooth in a glass of water which overnight mysteriously turns into a coin. Now that I think of it, my mom mixed her version with the Swedish one and said that the mouse took the tooth in the glass of water. So I’m thinking the mouse thing must be an African thing, lol.
Does Your Child Believe?
So you may be wondering if you should allow your child to believe in the tooth fairy, and if so to what extent should you take it. Of course there’s no right or wrong answer to this question, and there are so many ways and directions you can turn this into a teaching moment. Both financial and health related lessons can be learned. Most importantly though, I think it’s worthwhile making it a positive experience and celebrating your child’s growing up and becoming a big girl or boy.
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