In this day and age, even the tooth fairy is not at all immune to the slings and arrows of inflation. It seems kids across the land expect a higher bounty under their pillows, and you won’t believe the going rate.
That going rate, by the way, is about $3.70 per tooth! And that number is going up, with some tooth fairies being worked over for $50 a tooth according to a survey released by Visa.
What’s a respectable tooth fairy to do?
Get Creative!
The best way to distance yourself from overinflation is to avoid monetary compensation altogether. Think novelty instead of cash, and you won’t have to keep up with the Joneses.
Here are a few ideas:
- Foreign Coins: Add a little bit of mystery by giving coins from other countries. It’s still money, and it’ll set the curiosity button aglow in your kids. Just watch! You can pick up a bag of coins for a few bucks online, and use it for years.
- Glass Beads or Marbles: These two ideas are eternal. What kid doesn’t like shiny glass things? Really! Even adults love ‘em. And maybe, instead of just collecting them, you can learn how to play marbles or have your kids craft their own jewelry with the beads the tooth fairy left behind.
- Stickers: Another timeless idea. Get a pack and dish them out individually as teeth fall out. Or find an affordable single set and give the whole thing away. Movie-themed stickers can be a nice treat, and are a great way for the tooth fairy to demonstrate her hipness.
So, this year, when it comes time to put on your tooth fairy hat, try saying no the playground extortion ring and rising prices. Give your kids something they can actually put to good use.
If you enjoyed these three ideas, there are a few more to choose from at GeekDad.com.