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Growing up in a Mongolian ger
Six ways growing up in a ger shapes children who are sociable, responsible, tidy and close to nature.
The family environment has always been the first and most important school for a child. Even in a globalised world, the way children grow up still differs from culture to culture — and children raised in a Mongolian ger have a very particular upbringing.
Family researcher T. Namjil described the child as "both the object and the subject of family upbringing", showing how Mongolian child-rearing developed within the extended family and the neighbouring camps.
Children grow up sociable
In a ger the whole family lives together, closely connected, so children become open and generous rather than self-centred. Playing with the neighbours’ children from an early age teaches them to get along with others.
Children become responsible
Researcher L. Shagdarsuren noted that Mongolian children learned through household work and crafts. Bringing in fuel, fetching water and helping to open the roof felt or lift the wall hem for ventilation gave them responsibility and practical life skills.
A healthy place to grow
The toono at the top of the ger lets in fresh air. Traditionally a mother and newborn rested on the bed at the back of the ger, where fresh air and sunlight from the toono reach them. Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D.
Children who go in and out in every season and look far across the steppe grow up hardy and adaptable.
Children learn to be orderly
Minimalism is fashionable today, yet Mongolian ancestors lived truly minimal lives out of necessity, raising children to be tidy and free from greed for possessions.
Children respect tradition
Everyday life, celebrations and festivals all happen before the children’s eyes, so they grow up knowing and valuing their customs.
Children love nature
People who grew up looking at mountains and open sky rather than tall buildings stay close to nature. Elders taught children to honour the blue sky, love the hills, keep fire and water clean and protect plants and animals — practical lessons in caring for the earth.
Other benefits
A warm family atmosphere supports a child’s emotional development. In a ger children feel the respect and kindness between family members every day, which is why elders avoided quarrelling or harsh words in front of children.
