When your child loses a tooth, one of the first questions that comes up is, “What does the Tooth Fairy leave?”
And if you’re a parent… you’ve probably wondered the same thing.
Is it money?
A gift?
Something magical?
The truth is there’s no single “right” answer.
But there is a way to make it feel special, meaningful and memorable for your child.
What Do Most Parents Give?
Traditionally, the Tooth Fairy leaves:
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Coins or a small amount of money
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A gold or silver coin
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A simple note
In Australia, many families keep it simple with:
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$2 coins
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A “shiny” coin for the first tooth
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A slightly bigger gesture for that first milestone
But more and more parents are moving towards something a little more creative and personal.
Why The Experience Matters More Than The Gift
It’s easy to focus on what to leave…
But what your child will actually remember is:
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The excitement
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The story
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The magic of the moment
The value isn’t in the amount, it’s in the experience you create around it.
Fun + Modern Tooth Fairy Ideas
If you’re looking to make things feel a little more special, here are some simple ideas:
1. A “Shiny Surprise”
Instead of just money, leave something small and sparkly...a coin, charm or keepsake that feels magical.
2. A Personalised Note
A tiny note from the Tooth Fairy can make the moment unforgettable.
You might mention:
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How well they’ve been brushing
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How special their tooth is
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A little encouragement
3. A Tiny Gift
Some parents leave:
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A small toy
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A book
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A keepsake item
It doesn’t need to be big, just thoughtful.
4. A Little Trail of Magic
Add a sprinkle of “fairy dust” or a tiny trail leading to their pillow.
These small touches bring the story to life in a way children love.
5. A Tooth Fairy Tradition
Create a ritual around it:
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A special tooth box
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A pillow just for lost teeth
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A “goodnight” routine before the visit
Traditions are what make these moments feel magical year after year.
When Do You Leave It?
The Tooth Fairy usually visits the night the tooth falls out.
Some parents choose:
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The same night for excitement
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The next night if life gets busy (yes, it happens!)
There’s no strict rule, the magic still works.
Making It Feel Even More Special
What many parents don’t realise is that the magic doesn’t have to start after the tooth falls out.
In fact, the most powerful part of the experience happens before.
When a tooth first becomes wobbly, children often feel unsure or curious.
This is where you can begin building excitement.
A More Magical Approach
Some families introduce a Tooth Pixie during the wobbly tooth stage.
The idea is simple:
When a tooth begins to wobble, the Tooth Fairy Mother sends a Pixie to quietly watch over brushing routines and help children take care of their teeth.
The Tooth Pixie doesn’t replace the Tooth Fairy she prepares children for her visit.
By the time the tooth falls out, children feel:
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Excited instead of nervous
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Proud of their brushing
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Fully part of the experience
And the Tooth Fairy’s visit becomes even more magical.
How Much Should You Leave?
There’s no perfect amount.
Many parents choose:
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$1–$2 for regular teeth
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A little more for the first tooth
The key is to keep it consistent and aligned with your family values.
Final Thought
There’s no right or wrong way to do the Tooth Fairy.
The magic isn’t in the money…
It’s in the moment.
A little imagination, a little intention, and a little magic goes a long way.