It’s exciting when your child loses their first baby tooth. Depending on what they already know, they could be excited that the tooth fairy is about to visit. Alternatively, you may get to tell your child about the tooth fairy for the first time. But like many other aspects of parenting, no one told you how to properly introduce this character to your child as they undergo a natural part of growing up. That’s why your dentist in Westminster wanted to provide a quick and easy guide to follow before the fateful night.
After reading his post, you’ll know exactly what to do every time a child rushes to you with a baby tooth in hand.
How to Introduce the Tooth Fairy
The moment your child shows you their baby tooth, reassure them that it’s normal for their baby teeth to fall out. After you explain that new teeth are coming in, ask them if they’ve ever heard of the tooth fairy before. If so, ask what they already know about her. If they have any concerns, tell them that the tooth fairy is a friendly and caring person who wants to reward children for leaving their baby teeth behind. However, if they don’t like the idea of the tooth fairy visiting them, don’t force the visit.
Don’t worry if your child no longer has the tooth. They can just as easily write a letter explaining what happened and that they hope the tooth fairy leaves a gift in exchange for the note. Let them know that you’ll make sure she gets it.
What to Leave for Your Child
Now that your child is anticipating a visit, you can start planning what it is you’d like to leave behind. Typically, this includes a small amount of money, usually between 50 cents and a few dollars. However, it doesn’t necessarily have to be money if you think your child would prefer something else.
You can leave a toy, hygienic products, a decorated letter, or anything else you think your child would be excited to see. If you don’t have anything to give and your child expects a visit that night, leave a note that says a gift will be given later, so you can prepare.
How to Make the Exchange
The most common way parents leave gifts is by putting in under their child’s pillow. However, the beauty of being the tooth fairy means you can do it in any way that works best for you. You can purchase a designated tooth pillow that children leave on their nightstand, or just tell them to leave the tooth on the nightstand itself. This will make the exchange easy without accidentally waking them up.
Once your child informs you that the tooth fairy visited, have them write a thank-you note to send back. Not only will this help them get excited for future visits but also teach them good skills in communication and expressing gratitude.
With these points in mind, your dentist in Westminster thinks this is a good time to get creative. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today to learn more ideas and keep your child’s oral health in check!
About the Author
Dr. Terry Batliner earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Northern Colorado dental school. Since then, he’s prepared to help children protect their teeth, baby or otherwise, with dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and other options. To learn more from your dentist in 80234, contact his practice at (303) 460-9000 or visit his website.