Inside the Life of a Child in Ancient Egypt: Daily Rituals and Responsibilities

One of the most important aspects of a child’s daily life in ancient Egypt was education. Education was highly valued in Egyptian society, and children were expected to learn reading, writing, and arithmetic from a young age. Boys and girls were both educated, although the curriculum for girls was often focused on skills like weaving and household management. Education took place in schools called “House of Life,” where children would learn from scribes and priests.

In addition to education, children in ancient Egypt were also responsible for helping out with household chores. Girls would often assist their mothers with cooking, cleaning, and caring for younger siblings, while boys would help their fathers with tasks like farming, fishing, and building. Children were taught from a young age that hard work was important and that everyone in the family had a role to play in contributing to the household.

Daily life for a child in ancient Egypt also included religious rituals and ceremonies. Religion played a central role in Egyptian society, and children were taught from a young age to respect the gods and goddesses. Children would often participate in rituals at temples and make offerings to the gods in hopes of receiving their blessings. These rituals were seen as a way to ensure protection and prosperity for the family.

Another important aspect of daily life for a child in ancient Egypt was playtime. Children in ancient Egypt enjoyed playing games like senet, a popular board game, and playing with dolls and toys. Playtime was seen as an important part of a child’s development, as it helped them to learn important social skills and develop their imaginations.

Despite the many responsibilities that children had in ancient Egypt, they were also valued and cherished by their families. Children were seen as a blessing from the gods, and families would often go to great lengths to ensure their safety and well-being. Children were taught to respect their elders and to always behave in a way that reflected well on their family.

In conclusion, daily life for a child in ancient Egypt was filled with a mix of responsibilities and rituals that helped to shape them into responsible and respectful members of society. Education, household chores, religious ceremonies, and playtime all played a role in the upbringing of a child in ancient Egypt. By understanding the daily life of a child in ancient Egypt, we can gain insight into the values and beliefs of this fascinating civilization.

Nada Foundation
to help girls and women