A lot of children live in Mongolia; more than half of the country’s population is younger than 30 years of age. Mongolians feel it is very important to raise their children well.

Mongolian traditions say that you must never frighten a woman who is going to have a baby, or make her unhappy, so that the baby will be happy.

Those who live in the countryside teach their children about how to raise animals.

Parents want their children to grow up strong so that they can help with the herds. They make sure their children drink milk and eat healthy foods.

As the children grow, they are given toys and taught games that help to sharpen their intellects, and encourage them to be honest and trustworthy.

Children go to school and are also taught Mongolian traditions and customs. Most of the people in the country can read and write.

At a young age, children are taught to respect their parents, other people and their possessions, and even nature.

Children learn some of the following traditional beliefs: Don’t lean against the support column of a ger because it may bring bad luck. Don’t whistle inside a ger because it may cause heavy rain and strong winds. Don’t walk in front of older people. Don’t spill milk, which is considered holy. Don’t put trash or even water in the fire—it is sacred. If you step on a person’s foot, immediately shake that person’s hand so he/she knows it was an accident.

When Mongolia received its independence from Russia, many people lost their jobs. Families moved into the cities so fathers could find work.

The Russians also introduced Mongolians to alcohol The Russians also introduced Mongolians to alcohol. Some men began to drink when they couldn’t find work and didn’t treat their children kindly anymore. Kids began to run away from abusive fathers.

Can you guess how old this boy living on the streets was when the picture was taken? Although he was only 12 at the time, his face looks much older since life on the street is so hard. Pray for Mongolian Christians as they seek ways to work with these children and that the kids on the streets will come to know the love of Christ through these efforts.