National Tooth Fairy Day 2024: Fascinating customs from different cultures

National Tooth Fairy Day is celebrated twice a year on February 28 and August 22, offering an opportunity to reflect on the enchanting tradition that has captivated children for generations. In some countries, she takes the form of a tiny, benevolent mouse, scurrying about with gifts tucked under her tiny paws – ‘Tooth Fairy’.

The fairy’s mission is both ancient and modern, drawing on age-old traditions and weaving them into the fabric of today’s world. Each tooth she collects is not just a discarded part of childhood but a precious treasure, a symbol of growth and change. In return, she leaves behind a small gift or coin, a tangible piece of her magic that promises dreams of fairytales and enchanted realms.

Let’s explore uncommon facts about the tooth fairy from different countries and regions

• In Spain and America, the Tooth Fairy is not a fairy but a small mouse named Ratoncito Pérez or El Ratón de los Dientes. This is just a way to help kids find ease with their losing teeth associated with fancy stories. The mouse is said to visit children who have lost a tooth and leave a small gift or money in exchange.

• In India, the lost tooth is often given to a bird or placed in a special place with a chant or rhyme. This practice is based on the belief that the tooth when given to a bird or placed in a designated spot, will ensure the healthy growth of new teeth.

• In some parts of Russia, kids are encouraged to give their lost teeth to mice or rats, as these animals are believed to have strong teeth. This is another unique practice that is tied to the belief that giving the tooth to these animals will result in strong and healthy new teeth. It differs from the Western idea of a single fairy and incorporates local folklore about animals.

• In Greece, the tooth fairy is not commonly featured, and instead, children receive small gifts like toys or candy. Here, the tradition of receiving gifts rather than money is prevalent in Greek culture, reflecting different values and customs regarding rewards for lost teeth.

• In Japan, tooth fairy’s are perceived differently. Here, children do not rely on a fairy or mouse but follow a custom of throwing their lost upper teeth onto the roof and their lower teeth into the ground. This particular practice is rooted in the hope that the new teeth will grow strong and straight. It reflects a belief in the power of these rituals to influence the growth and health of the new teeth.

‘Nothing is cuter than a gappy grin, especially to the tooth fairy. I encourage my rhythmites to brush their teeth and tell little ones that the tooth fairy builds castles with their teeth. She crushes and makes fairy dust with teeth that are not so clean, she places teeth in the sky so they shine as brightly as stars, and also that she makes them into pretty jewelry which she gives out as gifts’ quotes Ms Komal Nathani, School Head, Apeejay Rhythms Kinderworld, GK2.