Children Around the World

Right now, as you read this lesson, millions of children around the world are learning new things, playing with friends, eating meals with their families — just like you!

What all children share

• Every child in the world needs food, water, shelter, love, and safety — these are called basic needs.
• Every child feels happy, sad, excited, or scared at times — feelings are universal.
• Example: A child in Brazil and a child in Japan both feel excited on their first day of school, even though they speak different languages and eat different foods.

How children's lives differ

• Children may speak different languages, wear different clothing, and eat different foods.
• The games children play, the stories they hear, and the celebrations they enjoy reflect their culture.

One cultural fact per country

• Japan — Children bow to greet their teachers as a sign of respect.
• Brazil — Children often play football (soccer) barefoot on sandy beaches.
• India — Many children celebrate Diwali by lighting small oil lamps called diyas.
• Kenya — Many children learn in Swahili and English at school.
• Norway — Children sled and ski in the snow as a favorite winter activity.
• Mexico — Children celebrate birthdays with a colorful papier-mâché piñata.