Just being born and growing up were full of dangers. Children were at risk from childhood illnesses. The ancient Egyptians also believed their children needed special protection from evil forces. For those who survived their early years, childhood was short and adult life came quickly.

Protection in childhood

Parents believed in the power of the gods and magic to keep children safe. Children wore amulets or charms to protect them, such as a figure of the god Bes, who was linked with the family and children. They believed a crocodile-shaped amulet protected children from being eaten by crocodiles.

Death in childhood

People believed that spells and prayers, herbal medicine and amulets could help to protect or cure a child. Many still died young. They were buried with the same care as an adult.

For the rich, that meant mummification and a child-sized coffin and mask. The prayer on a stela (inscribed slab of stone or wood) would give a child food and drink for the Afterlife.

Everyday life in childhood

Children usually only wore clothes in the cold weather and then they dressed like their parents. Paintings on tomb walls show children playing games with each other, such as gymnastic balancing games. Sometimes when a child died, their parents put toys into their grave for them to play with in the Afterlife.