Traditions Around the Birth and Upbringing of Children

The Kyrgyz treat the birth of a child with deep joy and pride. When a baby is born, the family announces it with the joyful cry of “Süyünchü!”, meaning “Joy has come!” Whoever first shares the news traditionally receives a small gift.

Shortly after birth, a name is given by the father or grandfather. When the mother and baby recover, the family hosts “Jeentek Toy”, a feast to introduce the newborn. One of the most important traditions is “Beshik Toy”, where the baby is ceremoniously placed into a beshik — a traditional wooden cradle. This role is given to a respected elder woman in the community.

When the child takes their first steps, the family holds “Tushöö Kesüü” — the cutting of symbolic ropes tied around the baby’s legs. This joyful event marks the child’s movement toward an independent life. The ropes are cut by a child known for speed and success, to bless the baby’s path.

Later in childhood:

• Boys undergo circumcision (commonly between ages 5–6).

• Girls have their braids ceremonially woven around ages 10–11, marking their entry into adolescence.