What was life like for children living in the Indus Valley? - Presentation

The educational presentation delves into the lives of children during the ancient Indus Valley civilization. This unit aims to provide pupils with a vivid understanding of the daily life of young inhabitants of the Indus Valley. Students are encouraged to explore the types of toys and games that were commonplace, such as clay toys, miniature carts, and animals. Fascinating archaeological finds like model cows with movable heads and toy monkeys that could slide down ropes highlight the creativity of the time. Additionally, the presentation suggests that pull-along animals on wheels were likely a favourite among the children of the Indus Valley.

Further insight into the lives of Indus Valley children reveals that while some may have attended school to learn reading, writing, and religious studies, many others worked with their families in agriculture, hunting, and crafting. Despite their responsibilities, these children still found time for leisure, playing in courtyards or on the flat rooftops of their homes, where they could easily socialize with neighbouring friends. They also enjoyed board games, using six-sided dice with spots, a game believed to be invented by the Indus people. To bring history to life, the presentation challenges pupils to imagine themselves as children of the Indus Valley, contemplating their daily work, play, and even pets, and to create a board game inspired by their understanding of this ancient culture.