YEREVAN, MARCH 13, ARMENPRESS. The New York Times published an article on one of the most widespread celebrations taking place in Armenia, known as “atam hatik”, reports “Armenpress”.

The author of the article says children in Armenia start thinking about their careers at a very young age — around six months or so.

“When an infant’s first tooth arrives, typically in four to seven months, a celebration takes place known variously as the “agra hadig” or “atam hatik.” As part of the ritual, objects symbolizing different professions are arrayed in front of a child: a microphone for an entertainer, a stethoscope for a doctor, scissors for a tailor or money for a banker. Whichever object the baby chooses first is thought to be a sign of where the child’s professional aptitude lies”, the author writes.

Yulia Antonyan, professor in the department of cultural studies at Yerevan State University, told the New York Times that there are no obligatory objects, and parents may orchestrate the future life of their offspring by choosing only those objects that symbolize prestigious and desired professions.

“The ceremony begins by pouring various cereal grains over and around the child. Typically but not always, the baby’s head is protected by a piece of fabric, a pair of hands or sometimes even an umbrella. The ritual sprinkling is thought to ensure that the child will have healthy, even teeth”, the author says.

According to the article, today, teeth-shaped cakes, toys, candy and balloons are popular party favors at these celebrations, which are widely practiced in Armenia and in the Armenian Diaspora. Whereas in the earliest written references to the ritual, just two objects were put before the teething child. The prediction then was not about an adult profession but the sex of the next sibling: Grasping a knife meant a brother was on the way, a comb (or mirror) a sister.