In Spain, when children lose a tooth, it’s not a fairy that visits them at night but a little mouse called Ratoncito Pérez.
Unlike the Tooth Fairy, who is often imagined as a tiny winged creature, Pérez is a clever and cheeky mouse with a knack for collecting teeth. He sneaks into bedrooms, takes the tooth from under the pillow, and leaves a small treat or some coins in its place.
This tradition goes way back; the story of Ratoncito Pérez was popularised by a Spanish priest named Luis Coloma in the late 19th century. The tale goes that the mouse helped a young king who had lost a tooth. Ever since, Ratoncito Pérez has been the tooth collector of choice in many Spanish-speaking homes.
What’s cute about Pérez is that he’s not just any mouse; he’s often shown dressed quite smartly, sometimes with a little hat or a waistcoat. You could say he’s a mouse with style. Kids love the idea that this tiny creature goes to such trouble just for their teeth.
So, while children in other parts of the world might be hoping for a fairy’s visit, Spanish children keep an eye out for a very busy little mouse. And who knows, maybe the next time you lose a tooth, Ratoncito Pérez might pay you a visit too!
