The Tooth Fairy, Big Feelings & Life Lessons | Jennifer Ballow

What if losing a tooth could teach children so much more than waiting for a visit from the Tooth Fairy?In this heartwarming episode, I’m joined by Jennifer Ballow—social worker, children’s author, and creator of the award-winning picture book Under My Pillow.Drawing on decades of experience helping children and families, Jennifer believes stories are one of the most powerful ways to nurture social and emotional learning. Her delightful book follows five-year-old Sam, whose excitement over losing her first tooth quickly turns into confusion when the Tooth Fairy seems to forget her. What unfolds is a charming mystery involving a mischievous bird, unexpected friendship, and valuable lessons about trust, forgiveness, curiosity, and problem-solving.Inspired by the real letters Jennifer’s twin daughters exchanged with the Tooth Fairy, Under My Pillow has become a favorite at schools, libraries, festivals, and community events—and received the Story Monsters Purple Dragonfly Award for Family Themes.In this episode, we discuss:🦷 The real-life story that inspired Under My Pillow
📚 Why storytelling is essential for children’s emotional development
💛 Helping kids learn empathy, trust, forgiveness, and resilience
👨‍👩‍👧 Creating meaningful conversations between children and caregivers
🎨 The importance of diversity and representation in children’s books
✍️ Jennifer’s journey from social worker to award-winning author
🌟 How small childhood moments can become lifelong lessonsJennifer reminds us that children’s books can do far more than entertain—they can help young readers build emotional intelligence, strengthen family connections, and navigate life’s first big experiences with confidence.🎧 Listen now on Spotify! Follow the podcast, leave a rating, and share this episode with parents, grandparents, teachers, librarians, caregivers, and anyone who loves inspiring children’s stories.💡 Connect with Jennifer Ballow:Learn more about Under My Pillow, Jennifer’s events, blog, and resources by visiting her website and following her work online.#Podcast #NewEpisode #JenniferBallow #ChildrensBooks #UnderMyPillow #ToothFairy #Parenting #SocialEmotionalLearning #Storytelling #Reading #Family #Teachers #ChildDevelopment #KidsBooks