Medieval Children

Above image: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File%3ADavid_with_musicians_and_dancing_children.JPG

 WHAT WAS CHILDHOOD

Childhood in the Medieval period was not what we know today! Rather than iPhones, laptops and all of the other technology we currently use, rather children had to enjoy the company of each other or toys such as dolls, rattles or adults possessions to drive their entertainment!

Moreover, through the Medieval period childhood was not a clearly defined idea. One was considered a child only while dependent on an adult. In fact before a child reached 5 or 6 they were seen as disposable and not seen as proper people. One’s childhood lasted until around age 15 where they could enter into the adult world.

Fun fact - the word for baby was only created in the 17th century

Learning Resources

Across
1. This child would often be sent to a relative or friend in order to receive training or education
6. Language in which children were often educated
8. A type of toy also known as a 'prill' or 'whirligig'
9. Young boys often aspired to be this type of warrior
11. The place where children could receive the highest level of education
12. Type of literature medieval children enjoyed
14. A game played with an inflated pig's bladder
Down
2. This type of toy has been popular with girls since the middle ages
3. Age where childhood ended
4. Young boys or girls
5. The season in which football is played
7. A place where girls could receive an education
8. Young apprentice to a knight
10. The children were expected to help 'bring in' this farming activity
13. A time period