In UK schools, many children believe in the tooth fairy and Father Christmas. Muslim children hear about them and ask questions.
Why honesty matters
A mother called her child, saying “Come, I’ll give you something.” The Prophet ﷺ asked what she intended to give. She said dates. He said that if she had not given anything, a lie would have been recorded against her (Sunan Abi Dawud 4991). Children trust what parents say; that trust is precious.
What to say
| Age | Answer |
|---|---|
| 4–7 | “It’s a story some families like. It isn’t real, but we can still have a little celebration when your tooth comes out!” |
| 8+ | “They’re made-up characters. Some families enjoy the story. We don’t pretend, because we always tell each other the truth.” |
Keep the fun, honestly
- Lost tooth: a coin or small treat from you, openly: “Mummy is proud of your big-girl tooth!”
- Make a dua: thank Allah for healthy teeth and ask for strong new ones.
- A tooth chart: mark each lost tooth with the date.
Don’t spoil it for others
Teach your child: “Some friends believe it. It’s not our job to tell them. If they ask you, you can say ‘My family doesn’t do that.’”
Teacher’s tip: children who never discover their parents “tricked” them keep trusting what they’re told about Allah and Islam. Honesty in small things protects belief in big things.
Related: Teaching honesty and Christmas at school.
