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A leprechaun is a type of fairy in Irish folklore, usually taking the form of an old man, clad in a red or green coat, who enjoys partaking in mischief. Like other fairy creatures, leprechauns have been linked to the Tuatha Dé Danann of Irish mythology. Leprechauns spend all their time busily making shoes, and store away all their coins in a hidden pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
If ever captured by a human, the leprechaun has the magical power to grant three wishes in exchange for their release. Popular depiction shows the leprechaun as being no taller than a small child, with a beard and hat.
Children are always captivated by tales of fairies and the idea of a mischievous little leprechaun spiriting around your house this week stashing and re-stashing his pot of gold is almost too good to pass up for a prank-loving grandparent.
Examples of ways the leprechaun can “prank” your grandchild:
1. Stealing a sip of their milk (or water). 
A small drop of green food coloring swirled into your grandchild’s drinking glass is all you need to start searching for the naughty leprechaun who stole a sip!
2. Taking a nibble of their apple.
Food coloring on the tip of your (clean) finger spreads nicely onto the edge of an apple or pear slice.
3. Hopping In the Tub!
What happens when a leprechaun beats your grandchild to the bathtub? Green water (or green-tinted bubbles), that’s what.
4. Fingerprints on the Door
(or on the closet, or back door). Two tiny thumbprints in washable ink (think: crayola markers) are all the evidence your grandchild needs to know that silly leprechaun was spying on all the fun you are having this week. Give their Shoes a shot of the green thumb for some extra added mischief.
5. Clovers in the Yard.
What better way to tart guessing than a small scattering of clovers in your very own backyard, or on your porch. Is this where the little guy is taking his nap?
Related articles
- The Leprechaun (kieraworld.wordpress.com)
- St Patrick Day Party Games (grandmacents.com)
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