10 Ways Kids Say Hello Around the World
Ever wondered how kids greet each other in different countries? From a simple handshake to unique cultural gestures, greetings around the world reflect the values and traditions of their communities. Here’s a quick summary:
- United States: A wave and a cheerful "Hello" or "Hi", often paired with eye contact and a smile.
- Japan: Bowing (ojigi) to show respect, with different angles for friends, elders, and formal occasions.
- France: Saying "Salut" or "Bonjour", often with cheek kisses (la bise), depending on the context.
- New Zealand (Māori): The hongi, pressing noses and foreheads together to share the "breath of life."
- India: Saying "Namaste" with hands pressed together and a slight bow, symbolizing respect and spiritual acknowledgment.
- Philippines: The mano gesture, where children press their forehead to an elder’s hand to seek blessings.
- Tibet: Sticking out the tongue as a sign of respect and honesty.
- Spain & Latin America: Saying "Hola" with hugs or cheek kisses, varying by country and relationship.
- Germany: A firm handshake with "Hallo" or "Tag", emphasizing eye contact and respect.
- Kenya (Maasai): Jumping while joyfully saying "Supa!" to greet others with energy and connection.
Why Teach Kids About Global Greetings?
Learning about these greetings helps kids understand different cultures, build empathy, and appreciate the diversity of human connection. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to foster respect and inclusivity.
Quick Comparison Table
| Country/Region | Greeting Style | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Wave and "Hello" | Casual, with eye contact and smiling. |
| Japan | Bowing (Ojigi) | Different bow angles for friends, elders, and formal occasions. |
| France | "Salut"/"Bonjour" + Cheek Kisses (La Bise) | Informal or formal, number of kisses varies by region. |
| New Zealand (Māori) | Hongi | Pressing noses and foreheads together to share the "breath of life." |
| India | "Namaste" | Hands pressed together, slight bow, symbolizes respect and spiritual unity. |
| Philippines | Mano Gesture | Forehead pressed to elder’s hand to seek blessings. |
| Tibet | Sticking Out Tongue | Sign of respect and honesty, rooted in folklore. |
| Spain & Latin America | "Hola" + Hugs or Kisses | Varies by country; cheek kisses or hugs for close relationships. |
| Germany | Handshake + "Hallo"/"Tag" | Firm grip, direct eye contact, upright posture. |
| Kenya (Maasai) | Jumping + "Supa!" | Energetic greeting rooted in tradition. |
From bows in Japan to the Maasai’s joyful "Supa!", greetings teach us about values, respect, and connection across cultures. Let’s explore how these simple gestures can bring us closer together!
1. United States: Wave and 'Hello'
In the United States, children often greet others in a casual, informal way. A simple wave combined with a cheerful "Hello" or "Hi" is a go-to greeting, reflecting the American emphasis on equality and a laid-back approach to social interactions.
Phrases like "Hello", "Hi", or even the friendly "Hey" signal openness and approachability. This style of greeting is straightforward and easygoing, making it widely accepted in various situations.
Eye contact and smiling play a big role in American greetings. When kids wave, say hello, and maintain eye contact, it fosters an immediate sense of connection. A warm smile adds to the positive vibe and makes the interaction feel welcoming and genuine.
In more formal situations, a firm handshake paired with direct eye contact is a common way to show respect and establish a connection. For casual encounters, children might stick to a wave or add a quick "How are you?" to acknowledge someone they know.
Teaching kids these greeting habits not only helps them navigate social settings but also reinforces the idea that politeness is a sign of respect and an invitation to connect.
2. Japan: Bowing
In Japan, children start learning the art of bowing (ojigi) at a young age. This elegant gesture is far more than just a greeting - it's a meaningful way to show respect, express gratitude, and recognize others. Bowing is deeply woven into the fabric of Japanese society, instilling politeness and reinforcing values that are central to their culture.
Education expert David A. LaSpina highlights how children naturally adopt this practice: "Kids that young mainly do what they see. When the kids see bowing all the time, that's what they do". Schools also play a significant role in teaching proper bowing etiquette, placing a strong emphasis on respect from the very first day of kindergarten.
Japanese children are taught different types of bows, ranging from a casual 15-degree nod for friends to deeper bows (30–45° or more) reserved for elders and formal occasions.
"Bowing signifies trust and peace by showing vulnerability, as we avert our eyes and expose the head."
- Kiyomoto Ogasawara, heir to the 32nd headmastership of the Ogasawara-ryu school of etiquette
When bowing, children are guided by specific rules. They keep their backs straight, look downward rather than making direct eye contact, and avoid combining a bow with a handshake. Timing is also crucial - bows are held longer and performed more deeply when addressing someone older or in a position of authority.
This seemingly simple gesture teaches children invaluable lessons about respect, humility, and the importance of acknowledging others within their community. Bowing is not just a movement; it's a reflection of the values that define Japanese society.
3. France: 'Salut' and Cheek Kisses
In France, children often greet each other with the informal "Salut", which is similar to saying "Hi" to someone you know well. For more formal situations, they switch to "Bonjour", a polite and universal way to say hello. But words aren’t the only part of French greetings - gestures play a big role too. One of the most iconic is the cheek kiss tradition known as la bise.
la bise is a light cheek kiss where lips don’t actually touch the skin. For family members and close adult friends, children might start with a single kiss (un bisou) on the cheek. As they grow older, they transition to the full la bise, which can involve multiple kisses depending on the region - two, three, or even four cheek kisses are common.
"Generally speaking, we kiss more or less everyone if the context is very informal. On the other hand, in a more formal setting, we only kiss the people we know best."
- Raphaëlle Renaudin, Writer and pedagogical content editor at Ilini
French children also learn to adapt their greetings to the situation. For instance, with strangers or in formal settings, they stick to a simple "Bonjour." La bise is reserved for family, friends, and sometimes coworkers, depending on the context. If they’re unsure about the number of kisses or which cheek to start with, they’re taught to follow the other person’s lead - a handy tip to avoid awkward moments.
"La bise is a traditional, common way to greet family, friends, and even coworkers (depending on your workplace). It's the equivalent of both a handshake and a hug."
This mix of verbal and physical greetings helps French children navigate social interactions gracefully, teaching them to balance familiarity and formality based on the relationship and setting.
4. New Zealand (Māori): Hongi
In New Zealand, Māori children grow up learning one of the most meaningful greetings in the world - the hongi. This traditional gesture involves pressing noses and foreheads together, symbolizing the sharing of the "ha", or breath of life, and creating a profound connection.
The hongi holds a sacred place in Māori culture. When performed, it represents a merging of life forces and a unification of spirits. Its origins are rooted in Māori mythology, where Hineahuone, the first woman, was brought to life by the god Tāne, who breathed into her nostrils.
Children are introduced to the hongi during pōwhiri, formal ceremonies that welcome visitors. By watching adults during these events, they gradually learn the gestures and significance of the hongi. Over time, they begin to participate, mastering the ritual through cultural immersion.
The act itself is simple but deeply symbolic. Participants lower their heads, often close their eyes, and press their noses and foreheads together before stepping back. In some cases, this is followed by a handshake, reinforcing mutual respect and warmth.
The spiritual depth of the hongi is beautifully expressed by Carmen TePuke, a culture bearer:
"The Hongi (pressing noses) is something we do when we greet someone…The sharing of the breath connects our Mauri (life force). We are no longer separate. We are one!"
For Māori children, the hongi is far more than just a greeting. It signifies acceptance and belonging. To receive a hongi is to be welcomed as tangata whenua, or people of the land, marking a transformation from outsider to community member.
Today, Māori culture continues to thrive in New Zealand, and the hongi remains a powerful way for children to connect with their heritage and identity.
5. India: 'Namaste' with Hands Together
In India, children grow up learning one of the most spiritually meaningful ways to greet others - 'Namaste'. This word, rooted in Sanskrit, translates to "I bow to you". The gesture involves pressing the palms together near the chest, offering a slight bow, and saying 'Namaste.' This hand position, known as añjali mudrā, represents the unity of the body, heart, and spirit.
Parents in India emphasize teaching their children to use "Namaste" as a respectful way to greet elders. Neeraj Agarwal, a cultural expert, explains:
"The young ones are taught to do 'Namaste' as a sign of respect to elders. Whenever you meet any 'uncles' or 'aunties', you're expected to greet them with a 'Namaste uncle/aunty' and they return it with a 'Namaste beta (son/child).'"
This greeting is versatile - it’s used both when meeting someone and when saying goodbye. Parents often make learning "Namaste" enjoyable by turning it into a playful activity, repeating the steps and practicing the word together.
What sets "Namaste" apart is its deep spiritual meaning. Suhag Shukla of the Hindu American Foundation beautifully explains:
"The Divine within me bows to the same Divine within you."
This sentiment reflects the Hindu belief that every individual carries a sacred spark, making "Namaste" much more than a simple greeting - it’s an acknowledgment of the divine essence within each person.
India’s linguistic diversity adds another layer to this tradition. In regions like Andhra Pradesh and Kerala, children say "Namaskaram", while in West Bengal, it’s "Nomoshkar", and in Maharashtra, "Namaskar". Though the words vary, the intention of respect and humility remains the same.
For Indian children, learning "Namaste" is about more than just etiquette - it’s a way to approach others with humility and recognize their inherent value, reflecting the core of Indian philosophy and spirituality. Up next, discover a heartfelt greeting from the Philippines that showcases its own cultural warmth.
6. Philippines: 'Mano' Gesture
In the Philippines, children greet their elders with a touching tradition called pagmamano. This practice is more than just a polite gesture - it’s a heartfelt way of showing respect and seeking blessings from older family members and community elders.
To request a blessing, children say "Mano po" or "Pa-bless po", then bow and gently press their forehead to the elder’s extended hand. The term mano translates to "hand" (borrowed from Spanish), while po is a respectful honorific. In return, the elder offers their right hand and often says a blessing like "God bless you."
Edge Genosa from Discover Philippines beautifully describes the essence of this tradition:
"Mano po is an act of reverend and respect bestowed upon elders by taking their hand and touching it to your forehead, as if you're receiving a blessing. But mano po is so much more than a quick gesture."
This gesture is commonly performed for grandparents, parents, extended family, godparents, clergy, and close family friends. The timing is just as important as the act itself - children often perform pagmamano when greeting an elder for the first time each day, upon entering a home, or during family gatherings. In some areas, it’s even tied to the Angelus prayer at 6:00 PM, making it a daily ritual. Skipping the gesture is often seen as impolite.
What’s fascinating is how this tradition highlights the deep respect for family and elders in Filipino culture. It also goes by different names in various regions, like amin in the Visayas and siklod in Pampanga.
For Filipino children, learning the mano isn’t just about following tradition - it’s a way to embrace humility, respect, and the strong bonds that hold families together. Next, we’ll dive into a unique greeting custom from Tibet.
sbb-itb-6d35b6a
7. Tibet: Sticking Out the Tongue
In Tibet, children greet each other by sticking out their tongues - a gesture that symbolizes respect and honesty. While it might seem unusual to outsiders, this practice is deeply rooted in Tibetan traditions and folklore.
The origin of this custom dates back to the 9th century, during the reign of King Lang Dharma, a ruler infamous for his misdeeds and his strikingly black tongue. To prove they were not reincarnations of the notorious king, people began showing their tongues as a way of affirming their innocence. Since reincarnation is a fundamental belief in Buddhism, this act became a meaningful way to distance oneself from Lang Dharma's reputation.
Tsering Kyi, a Tibetan journalist based in the U.S., explains:
"Since then, people have shown their tongue as a way of saying that they are not like Lang Dharma."
The gesture has been recognized as a genuine sign of respect and agreement in Tibetan culture. The Institute of East Asian Studies at the University of California, Berkeley, acknowledges its significance, while Tibet Highland Tours highlights its role in expressing sincerity:
"One of the unique customs says that sticking your tongue out shows sincerity and respect."
The way the tongue is displayed also holds meaning. A pink tongue signifies a connection to Buddhist values, distinguishing individuals from any association with the ancient ruler.
Although this greeting was once widespread across Tibet, it has become less common in urban areas. Many Tibetan children now prefer saying "Tashi Delek", a traditional verbal greeting, especially in formal or modern settings. Even so, the practice of sticking out the tongue remains a vivid link to Tibet's cultural heritage, blending historical significance with evolving customs.
For Tibetan children, this simple gesture is more than just a greeting - it’s a connection to their history and an enduring expression of their identity.
8. Spain and Latin America: 'Hola' with Hugs or Kisses
In Spain and much of Latin America, greetings are more than just polite exchanges - they’re heartfelt moments that build and nurture relationships. From a young age, children are taught the value of warm, personal interactions, often starting with a simple "Hola" paired with gestures that reflect affection and respect. These gestures, however, can vary depending on the country and the relationship.
For close friends and family, greetings often include hugs or cheek kisses alongside a cheerful "Hola." On the other hand, when meeting someone less familiar, children might stick to just a verbal greeting or even a handshake. The level of familiarity often dictates the gesture.
Mary Bess Lewis from Cornell University highlights the significance of these greetings:
"Hispanics living in the USA know that the culture is different here, however the greeting or 'saludo' could be a great way to connect with your team and inspire the workplace to be more welcoming for all cultures involved."
Even within Latin America and Spain, customs around cheek kisses differ. In Spain, for instance, the typical greeting involves two kisses - one on each cheek, starting with the right. In Argentina, it’s usually a single kiss on the right cheek, while in Mexico, cheek kisses are reserved for close friends and family. In Colombia, a single kiss might be paired with a hug to express warmth and familiarity.
When it comes to greeting adults, like a friend’s parents or visiting relatives, children often take cues from others to determine the appropriate level of physical contact. If unsure, a warm smile and a friendly "Hola" are always safe and welcoming options.
Lewis underscores the universal appeal of these greetings:
"Sincere greetings are not just for Hispanics; a warm greeting shows our family, friends, and colleagues that they matter in our small world."
For children in these cultures, saying hello goes beyond mere words - it’s a way of recognizing the value of relationships and showing that everyone deserves to feel seen and appreciated.
9. Germany: Handshake and 'Hallo' or 'Tag'
In Germany, the handshake isn't just a greeting - it's a tradition deeply woven into the fabric of daily life. From an early age, German children are taught to greet friends and family with a firm handshake, often paired with a friendly "Hallo" or the casual "Tag", which is a shorter version of "Guten Tag."
Handshakes play a key role in German culture, particularly during introductions and formal occasions. They are typically accompanied by direct eye contact and upright posture, both of which are seen as signs of respect and sincerity. Failing to make eye contact during a handshake can be perceived as a lack of trustworthiness.
Children in Germany are taught to master this ritual early on - maintaining steady eye contact, offering a confident grip, and speaking clearly when greeting someone. While "Hallo" and "Tag" are informal and commonly used with peers or familiar adults, they still reflect the importance Germans place on clear and respectful communication.
Formality and respect are especially valued in Germany, particularly during first meetings. While close friendships may allow for more warmth and informality, initial interactions often lean toward a reserved demeanor, with punctuality being a key expectation. This thoughtful approach to greetings underscores the importance of building respectful relationships - an attitude that carries through to many aspects of German social life. It also contrasts with the unique customs of other cultures, such as those of the Maasai in Kenya, which we'll explore next.
10. Kenya (Maasai): Jumping and Saying 'Supa'
Across the sweeping savannas of Kenya and Tanzania, Maasai children have a greeting that’s as lively as it is heartwarming. When they encounter friends, family, or visitors, they often leap into the air while joyfully exclaiming "Supa!" - a word that radiates energy and connection. This cheerful custom is a vivid reflection of the Maasai's rich traditions.
The word "Supa" translates to "hello" in Maa, the language spoken by nearly 900,000 people. But it’s not just about the word - it’s the action too. The jumping, deeply rooted in Maasai culture, traces back to traditional dances and warrior ceremonies. Historically, these jumps symbolized strength and were often part of rites of passage for young Maasai.
Greeting is more than a casual exchange for the Maasai; it’s a vital part of their social fabric. Failing to greet someone is considered impolite, as greetings serve to check in on one another and reinforce community ties. Children, in particular, are taught to wait respectfully for elders to greet them first, a gesture that underscores the importance of respect and the community’s social structure. This thoughtful approach mirrors the universal significance of greetings as a way to maintain harmony and connection.
For visitors, the Maasai welcome is unforgettable. Traveler Kathie shared her experience:
"Supa! That is the traditional greeting of the Masai people and boy were we welcomed by them today! Most of the community was at the school compound waiting for our arrival. There was singing and dancing and hugs and so many beautiful smiles! There is nothing like a Masai welcome!!"
Beyond the initial "Supa", these greetings often lead to conversations about daily life, reflecting the Maasai’s collective focus on community well-being. It’s a reminder of how even the simplest gestures can carry profound meaning.
Conclusion
From Kenya's cheerful "Supa!" to Japan's respectful bow, greetings reflect the heart of each culture's way of connecting. When children explore these diverse traditions, they’re doing much more than learning new words or gestures - they’re opening doors to understanding and building meaningful connections that can last a lifetime.
Studies reveal that children exposed to different cultures tend to develop stronger empathy and social skills. A national study also highlights how engaging with diversity can lead to better academic performance. The National Association for the Education of Young Children emphasizes that culturally responsive learning taps into children’s strengths. These insights underline why incorporating global greetings into everyday learning is so impactful.
Learning about cultural traditions fosters empathy, broadens understanding, and boosts confidence in children. Whether it’s the warm "Namaste" with hands pressed together in India or the hongi greeting of New Zealand, discovering these unique expressions helps kids appreciate the richness of human connection.
This kind of appreciation is especially vital in today’s interconnected world. With over 1 million immigrants becoming U.S. residents in 2022, children in the U.S. are growing up in one of the most culturally diverse societies ever. Learning about different greetings offers a simple yet profound way to nurture empathy and self-awareness.
Parents can encourage this curiosity by exploring greetings in other languages, celebrating global traditions, or trying out cultural crafts. For hands-on learning, Global Sprouts offers monthly subscription boxes starting at $39.99, designed for kids aged 2–6, bringing global traditions right into the home.
As Fred Rogers wisely said, "Play is serious learning". Whether practicing the "mano" gesture from the Philippines or the Tibetan tongue greeting, children are taking meaningful steps toward becoming global citizens - one hello at a time.
FAQs
How does learning about global greetings help children develop empathy and social skills?
Introducing kids to greetings from around the world is a fantastic way to help them develop empathy and sharpen their social skills. It opens their eyes to the diversity of traditions, values, and social norms, encouraging respect and curiosity about people from different backgrounds.
When children practice these greetings, they begin to understand the emotions and intentions behind them. This boosts their ability to connect with others, strengthens communication skills, and builds confidence in diverse social situations. Over time, these experiences help nurture meaningful relationships and a deeper appreciation for cultural differences.
How can parents teach their children to say hello in different languages at home?
Parents can turn learning global greetings into an enjoyable and interactive experience by weaving some fun activities into everyday life. One engaging idea is to create a world map project. On this map, kids can learn to say "hello" in various languages by writing greetings on colorful speech bubbles and placing them on the map to match each phrase with its country. This hands-on activity not only introduces new words but also connects them to the countries and cultures they come from.
Another option is to try memory games with greeting cards featuring different languages. Kids can match each phrase to its country, making the process both entertaining and educational. Singing songs that incorporate greetings from around the globe is another fantastic way to spark curiosity and introduce new vocabulary. These activities go beyond teaching language - they help kids develop an appreciation for the diversity of the world.
Why is it valuable for kids to learn how people from other cultures say hello?
Understanding how people from various parts of the world greet each other can help kids grow in empathy, respect, and social awareness. It teaches them to value diversity and recognize that there are countless ways to connect with others, each shaped by different experiences and traditions.
When children explore greetings from around the globe, they not only strengthen their communication skills but also expand their view of the world. These moments spark curiosity and help them adapt to new situations, equipping them to navigate and succeed in an increasingly connected and inclusive society.