The Tooth Fairy

folklore · childhood traditions · magic

A nightly visitor. According to folklore, the tooth fairy comes to children's homes while they sleep and swaps their lost baby teeth for money or small gifts left under their pillow.

An ancient tradition. The idea of the tooth fairy blends customs from many cultures around the world, including European, African, and Asian traditions about what to do with lost teeth.

Pocket money reward. Children leave their tooth under a pillow or on a nightstand, and the tooth fairy replaces it with coins or dollar bills, making losing a tooth feel like a special event.

Western culture favorite. The tooth fairy tradition is especially popular in English-speaking countries and other Western cultures, though similar tooth-collection customs exist in many other parts of the world.

Growing up milestone. Losing baby teeth and waiting for the tooth fairy's visit is one of the first magical experiences many children have as they grow older.