NATIONAL DAY

In many cultures around the world, various traditions around the tooth fairy are celebrated! The tooth fairy herself (or himself–as the verdict is still out on whether this spirit is male or female) has been around since at least the Middle Ages, although the exact origins are still unknown. In any case, this is certainly an iconic childhood symbol that brings joy and smiles to children all over the world. Children in Europe, Russia, some parts of Asia (especially China), North America and other places all have certain traditions that revolve around the idea of a tooth fairy. The tradition usually goes that a child who loses a tooth can leave it under his or her pillow that night. This special creature, who fortuitously knows when a child has lost a tooth, stealthily exchanges it for a coin or a treat during the night. Some traditions assign this role to a small animal, such as a mouse, rabbit, cat or dog, while other cultures may tend to associate it more with a mythical creature akin to Tinkerbell. Likely, the idea of the tooth fairy was a myth that evolved over time and, in some cultures, childrens teeth were even considered to be lucky. Its possible that the tooth fairy may have just been made up by parents as a means to calm a child that was undergoing the strange experience of losing a tooth, which can certainly be an upsetting part of growing up. But it also could have been a clever way to get access to those lucky teeth! History of National Tooth Fairy Day So, it should come as no surprise that somewhere along the line, National Tooth Fairy Day was born. National Tooth Fairy Day is a time that is designed to pay homage to this generous spirit that is known to leave treats or coins underneath childrens pillows. Because the story comes from a long tradition in various cultures, National Tooth Fairy Day is surrounded by a bit of mystery. Often celebrated toward the end of February, some people believe that it should be held in August, instead. Of course, it may be that the tooth fairy is deserving of two different special days! While it would be nice to return the favor for the Tooth Fairy, a method has yet to be discovered for leaving a coin or a snack for this special friend, as no one is even sure if she (or he) has a pillow! But there are certainly many other ways to celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day that will delight children of all ages–and adults too! How to Celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day Enjoying National Tooth Fairy Day has many opportunities for fun and celebration surrounding teeth! Consider these ways to enjoy the day, especially with children: Read a Book (or Watch a Film) About the Tooth Fairy Some people believe that a 1927 book made a strong contribution to what is known as the tooth fairy in America today. This book by Esther Watkins Arnolds book, was The Tooth Fairy: Three-act Playlet for Children. Other stories that can be appreciated in honor of the day include: Bella and the Tooth Fairy, a childrens book by Genna RowbothamThe Night Before the Tooth Fairy, a childrens book by Natasha WingJudy Moody, Tooth Fairy, a childrens book by Megan McDonaldToothless, 1997 comedy film starring Kirstie AlleyTooth Fairy, the 2010 comedy film with Dwayne JohnsonChildrens ActivitiesFor kids who want to celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day, making a craft or enjoying a tooth-related activity can be loads of fun. Some dentists offices sponsor a coloring page contest that kids can participate in. But thats just a start. Parents might like to help their kids to make their own tooth pillow or bag, a tiny fabric envelope which serves as a place to keep loose teeth so they dont get lost while waiting for the tooth fairy. This can be accomplished by sewing or gluing fabric together. Other parents or teachers might like to use this as an educational opportunity. They can help their kids learn some interesting facts about teeth that will keep them motivated to brush and care for their teeth in a responsible and healthy manner. Visit a MuseumSome museums have been dedicated to the knowledge of dentistry and teeth, and some of them even include folklore and memorabilia surrounding the Tooth Fairy. Known dentistry museums include places like:Tooth Fairy Museum, Springfield, Illinois, USABritish Dental Museum, London, UKMuseum of Dentistry, Paris, FranceSirindhorn Dental Museum, Bangkok, ThailandDental Education Museum, Ile-Ife, NigeriaNational Museum of Dentistry, Baltimore, Maryland, USASearch online to find other locations of dental or tooth museums. Book a Dentist Appointment If its been awhile since a visit to the dentist, this day could serve as an excellent reminder that its time for a cleaning and checkup! Call the dentist to set up an appointment–they will be very happy for the reminder and will thank the Tooth Fairy for his/her special services!