Parenting

Magic and mystery often fill a child's life with wonder and awe.  The beloved Tooth Fairy is only one of many mystical beings that parents introduce to their child. 

Her exact origins are unclear.  Some report that early 18th century French literature created a Tooth Mouse who would collect children's milk teeth and in return leave a small gift.  American literature first published the Tooth Fairy in 1949, however there are reports she was written about as early as 1900.  Either way she is now a popular character enriching the lives of children around the world.

The existence of the Tooth Fairy provides parents and children a positive and comforting manner in which to deal with the transitional changes through childhood.  The arrival of 'adult teeth' is one of the first signs in the disappearance of childhood, which understandably can be slightly traumatic.  The Tooth Fairy helps hold onto the final strings of innocence for just a little longer.

By receiving a small gift, generally money, children are less likely to feel fear that may be associated with the loss of their milk teeth.  Traditionally the tooth is placed under the child's pillow at night and exchanged with a coin or small gift while the child is sleeping. 

The logistics in finding a small tooth under a sleeping child's pillow is not always easy.  As a result the tooth has alternatively been placed in a glass of water or special pouch and placed next to the child.  This makes the Tooth Fairy's job much easier, however parents still find themselves with a collection of teeth they may not know what to do with.  Parents with more than one child are left in an even greater quandary as they try to recall which tooth came from which child!

All is not lost. 

There is a simple and effective way to keep track of lost teeth without a great deal of effort.  Rather than place the tooth in the a glass of water or under a pillow, place the tooth in an envelope.  The child can then write a brief note tooth Tooth Fairy.  Be sure to include the date and you will have a sentimental record of your child's development over time.

Not only will you have a record of when your child's milk teeth fall out but also how their writing and language skills change over time.  This collection can also be created into a very special keepsake for later years.  Perhaps even a unique 21st birthday present.

Tags: Children, growth